Exploring Advanced 3D Printing Filaments

Sep 2, 2024

Advanced 3D Printing Filament Types

In this lecture, we explore the 9 most popular advanced filament types for 3D printing, their differences, ideal applications, and benefits.

Overview of Filaments

  • Previous video covered the top 5 common 3D printer filaments.
  • This video focuses on advanced engineering-grade filaments due to increased popularity.
  • Filament types include nylon, polycarbonate, and carbon composites.
  • Increased usage due to advancements in enclosed consumer-grade 3D printers and hardened extruders.
  • Extensive research and testing was conducted to understand these materials.

1. Nylon

  • Durability: Highly durable, excellent interlayer adhesion.
  • Heat Resistance: Higher than ABS or PETG.
  • Ductility: More flexible than other plastics like PETG.
  • Chemical Resistance: Good resistance to oil and solvents.
  • Cost: More affordable than other heat-resistant plastics (e.g., Peak).

Printing Considerations

  • Hygroscopic: Needs to be dried before use.
  • Prone to warping: Requires an enclosure for best results.

Types of Nylon

  • PA6: Higher strength and stiffness, affected by moisture.
  • PA12: Lower moisture absorption, more stable, higher flexibility.

Applications

  • Plastic gears, automotive parts, flexible hinges, workshop tools, gaskets.

2. Polycarbonate (PC)

  • Clarity and Robustness: Exceptional clarity, one of the toughest thermoplastics.
  • Heat Resistance: Superior thermal stability compared to standard plastics.
  • Impact Resistance: Impressive ability to absorb shocks.

Printing Considerations

  • Hygroscopic: Store in a dry environment.
  • Tendency to warp: Requires an enclosed printer and heated bed.

Applications

  • Lighting elements, electronic housings, drone parts, prototypes for functional testing.

3. PLA-CF (Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA)

  • Base Material: Biodegradable thermoplastic (PLA) derived from renewable resources.
  • Strength and Rigidity: Enhanced mechanical properties with carbon fibers.
  • Printability: Generally easier to print than standard PLA.

Considerations

  • Carbon fibers can decrease interlayer adhesion; improved dimensional stability.
  • Retains PLA’s heat sensitivity and brittleness, requires hardened nozzles.

Applications

  • Drone frames, RC car components, lightweight tooling, mounting brackets.

4. PETG-CF (Carbon Fiber Reinforced PETG)

  • Enhanced Qualities: Increased stiffness, strength, and heat resistance compared to standard PETG.
  • Printability: Easier to print than other carbon-reinforced filaments.
  • Unique Finish: Matte textured finish due to carbon fibers.

Applications

  • Custom enclosures, protective gear, robotics components.

5. PACF (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Nylon)

  • Durability and Rigidity: Improved heat resistance and rigidity, but reduced ductility.
  • Printability: Easier to print than regular nylon; reduced warping.

Applications

  • Mounting brackets, tools, rigid components exposed to heat.

6. ABS-CF (Carbon Fiber Reinforced ABS)

  • Affordability: Generally cheaper than other carbon composites.
  • Printability: Easier to print than standard ABS, less hygroscopic.
  • Durability: Great overall polymer for consumer goods.

Applications

  • Automotive parts, indoor brackets, tools.

7. ABS-GF (Glass Fiber Reinforced ABS)

  • Economic Option: Adds tensile strength at a lower cost compared to carbon fiber.
  • Applications: Suitable for electronics housings, tool cases, and handles.

Conclusion

  • Summary of advanced filaments and their applications.
  • Acknowledgments to sponsors and contributors.
  • Encouragement to like and subscribe for more content.