Published on Wed Jun 26 2024 00:37:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

3DXTech Carbon Fiber PETG: A Deep Dive

Carbon fiber reinforced filaments are becoming increasingly popular for 3D printing applications demanding high strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability. 3DXTech’s Carbon Fiber PETG filament is a prime example, blending the ease of use of PETG with the enhanced properties provided by carbon fiber reinforcement. This article offers a comprehensive look at this filament, covering its specifications, usage tips, and a detailed evaluation of its performance characteristics.

What is 3DXTech Carbon Fiber PETG?

3DXTech Carbon Fiber PETG is a composite filament made from a blend of Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified (PETG) and chopped carbon fibers. PETG is known for its ease of printing, good strength, and chemical resistance. The addition of carbon fibers significantly boosts its stiffness, strength, and dimensional stability, making it suitable for functional parts, jigs, fixtures, and other applications where these properties are crucial.

Key Specifications

• Base Material: PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified)
• Reinforcement: Chopped Carbon Fiber
• Diameter: Typically 1.75mm or 2.85mm (ensure you select the correct diameter for your printer)
• Density: ~1.3 g/cm³
• Tensile Strength: Increased compared to standard PETG, typically 50-70 MPa (Check 3DXTech’s datasheet for precise values)
• Tensile Modulus: Significantly increased compared to standard PETG, typically 3-5 GPa (Check 3DXTech’s datasheet for precise values)
• Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT): Improved compared to standard PETG, typically around 75-85°C
• Nozzle Recommendation: Hardened steel nozzle required (carbon fiber is abrasive)
• Print Temperature: Typically 230-250°C (adjust based on your printer and environment)
• Bed Temperature: Typically 70-80°C
• Print Speed: 40-60 mm/s (can vary depending on part geometry and printer capabilities)

Important Note: Always consult the official 3DXTech datasheet for the most accurate and up-to-date specifications.

Usage Tips for Optimal Printing

Printing with carbon fiber reinforced filaments requires careful attention to detail. Here are some essential tips for success with 3DXTech Carbon Fiber PETG:

• Nozzle Selection: Crucially, you must use a hardened steel nozzle. Carbon fiber is highly abrasive and will quickly wear down a standard brass nozzle, leading to poor print quality and eventual nozzle failure. Nozzle sizes of 0.4mm or larger are recommended.
• Print Temperature: Start with a print temperature within the recommended range (230-250°C). Fine-tune this based on your specific printer and environmental conditions. Higher temperatures can improve layer adhesion but may also increase stringing.
• Bed Adhesion: PETG generally adheres well to various build surfaces. A clean PEI sheet, glass bed with glue stick, or painter’s tape can provide excellent adhesion. Ensure your bed is properly leveled.
• Print Speed: Reduce your print speed compared to standard PETG, especially for the first layer. A slower speed ensures proper adhesion and reduces the risk of warping.
• Part Cooling: While PETG benefits from some cooling, excessive cooling can lead to layer delamination. Use moderate fan settings, around 20-50%, depending on the part geometry. For overhangs, increased cooling may be necessary.
• Enclosure: An enclosure is not strictly required for 3DXTech Carbon Fiber PETG, but it can help to maintain a consistent temperature and reduce the risk of warping, especially for larger parts.
• Storage: Like most filaments, 3DXTech Carbon Fiber PETG is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. Store the filament in an airtight container with desiccant when not in use to prevent moisture absorption. Dry the filament before printing if you suspect it has absorbed moisture.
• Retraction Settings: Optimize your retraction settings to minimize stringing. A retraction distance of 4-7mm and a retraction speed of 40-60mm/s are good starting points.

Performance Evaluation

This section provides a rating for 3DXTech Carbon Fiber PETG based on key 3D printing performance characteristics, on a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the best).

• Print Quality: 8/10 - With proper settings, excellent detail and surface finish are achievable.
• Toughness: 9/10 - Significantly stronger and more rigid than standard PETG due to the carbon fiber reinforcement.
• Flexibility: 3/10 - Considerably less flexible than standard PETG. This is a rigid filament.
• Warping: 7/10 - Improved warping resistance compared to some other filaments, but still susceptible to warping on large parts without proper bed adhesion and temperature control.
• Adhesion: 8/10 - Generally excellent adhesion to various build surfaces.
• Moisture Sensitivity: 6/10 - More moisture-sensitive than some other filaments (like PLA), requiring proper storage and drying when necessary.
• Color Range: 4/10 - Typically available in limited colors, often shades of black or gray, due to the presence of carbon fiber.
• Temperature Range: 7/10 - Wider temperature range compared to PLA, with good heat resistance for functional parts.
• Odor & Fumes: 7/10 - Generally low odor during printing, similar to standard PETG.
• Spool Winding Quality: 9/10 - 3DXTech is known for its high-quality filament winding, minimizing tangles and print failures.

Average Score: 7.5/10

Conclusion

3DXTech Carbon Fiber PETG is a valuable material for 3D printing functional parts that require high strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability. Its ease of printing, combined with the enhanced properties provided by carbon fiber, make it a popular choice for engineers, designers, and hobbyists alike. By following the recommended usage tips and taking care to select the appropriate hardware (hardened steel nozzle), you can achieve excellent results with this filament and unlock its full potential.

Written by Alex