Carbon-fiber filaments add short chopped fibers to a base polymer such as PLA, PETG, ASA or nylon. The fibers make parts stiffer and more dimensionally stable and give a clean matte finish that hides layer lines.
Use a hardened nozzle
The fibers are abrasive and will wear a brass nozzle quickly. Use a hardened steel or similar wear-resistant nozzle, typically 0.4 mm or larger, and check the extruder gears too.
Choosing the base polymer
- PLA-CF: stiff, easy to print, indoor fixtures and prototypes.
- PETG-CF: tougher, better heat and chemical resistance.
- ASA-CF: outdoor, UV-exposed parts; needs an enclosure.
- Nylon-CF (PA-CF): the strongest and most heat resistant; must be dried and printed enclosed.
Tips
Dry the spool before printing, slow down slightly for better layer bonding, and print on textured PEI or carbon fiber surfaces as the manufacturer recommends.
