With the goal to enable high-performance composite applications on its S series 3D printers, 3D printing company UltiMaker has added PET Carbon Fiber (CF) to the portfolio of materials these 3D printers can process.
Apart from manufacturing tools, jigs and fixtures, and end-use parts, engineers can also leverage the benefits of PET CF for their engineering prototypes, enabling easy and extensive testing of technical concepts and functions. According to the manufacturer, PET CF offers a reliable solution for replacing broken or hard-to-source production parts. By utilizing its strong mechanical and thermal properties, manufacturers can swiftly print replacement components, eliminating the need for costly production line shutdowns.
Key features of the material include the ability to achieve even higher strength, stiffness, and temperature resistance through annealing. By annealing printed parts, engineers can achieve a temperature resistance of up to 181°C and increase strength by up to 30% and stiffness by up to 10%, resulting in parts that excel in challenging environments.
Exhibiting low moisture sensitivity compared to other carbon fiber materials, PET CF requires limited drying. When stored in the UltiMaker Material Station, it remains well-conditioned, enabling a reliable printing experience and consistently high-quality prints. PET CF is compatible with dedicated support materials, such as UltiMaker PVA and Breakaway, offering users full design freedom and enabling the creation of complex composite parts without limitations.
UltiMaker also offers PET CF in multiple colors, including black, gray, and blue. This unique feature allows users to color code their carbon fiber prints, catering to specific use cases or aesthetic requirements. The material is fully integrated into the UltiMaker platform through NFC-equipped spools, offering a seamless experience that makes use of NFC material recognition, a dedicated Print Core CC, support material compatibility, and intent profiles.
For users who want a complete composite printing solution, PET CF will also be available as part of the UltiMaker PET CF Expansion Kit. The Expansion Kit includes two spools of PET CF in black and one spool each in both blue and gray. It also includes one 0.4mm Print Core CC and one 0.6mm Print Core CC.
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