Nylon 12CF

FDM Nylon 12CF | Carbon Fiber-Reinforced FDM Material

Technical Overview

FDM Nylon 12CF is a polyamide 12 (PA12) thermoplastic reinforced with 35% chopped carbon fiber by weight. This composite formulation combines the chemical resistance and fatigue endurance of nylon with the specified rigidity and strength of carbon fiber. The result is a material with the highest stiffness-to-weight ratio of any FDM thermoplastic, enabling the production of extremely durable yet lightweight parts.

specified Mechanical Properties

Engineered for demanding applications, Nylon 12CF exhibits high flexural and tensile strength, allowing it to withstand significant loads and harsh operational conditions. It provides the structural integrity required for functional prototypes that must endure rigorous testing, as well as production-grade manufacturing tools that see repeated use. This makes it a viable alternative to machined aluminum for many tooling applications.

Thermal and Environmental Stability

Parts printed in Nylon 12CF maintain their mechanical properties at elevated temperatures, with a high Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT). This stability ensures dimensional accuracy and functional reliability for components used in automotive under-hood environments, industrial manufacturing settings, or aerospace applications.

Design and Processing Guidelines

FDM Nylon 12CF is printed with SR-110 soluble support material, which enables the creation of complex geometries, internal channels, and intricate features without the limitations of manual support removal. Due to the abrasive nature of the carbon fiber, compatible printers must be equipped with a hardened print head and extruder drive.

Lifecycle: From Functional Validation to Production

Nylon 12CF is an engineering-grade material suited for the entire product lifecycle. It excels in creating functional prototypes that accurately simulate the mechanical performance of the final product. For low-volume production, it is ideal for manufacturing end-use parts, defined jigs and fixtures, and custom assembly tools that reduce weight and improve operator efficiency.