3D Printing MaterialsStratasysFDM®
Polycarbonate (PC)
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Stratasys Polycarbonate (PC) is an industrial-grade thermoplastic renowned for its high strength and heat resistance. Engineered for the FDM® process, it enables the production of durable manufacturing tools, functional prototypes, and end-use parts that must perform under significant mechanical and thermal stress.
Polycarbonate (PC) | High-Strength Thermoplastic for FDM 3D Printing
Technical Overview
Polycarbonate (PC) is a defined FDM thermoplastic that brings the proven attributes of this industrial plastic to additive manufacturing. It is characterized by its high strength, superior impact resistance, and rigidity, coupled with excellent dimensional stability. Its primary differentiator is its ability to deliver higher mechanical and thermal performance than standard materials like ABS or ASA, making it a reliable choice for challenging engineering applications.
Performance Properties
Mechanical Strength and Impact Resistance
PC delivers outstanding toughness, making it suitable for parts that must withstand significant operational stress and impact. This robustness is ideal for producing durable jigs, fixtures, manufacturing aids, and protective component housings that require long-term reliability and wear resistance.
Thermal and Dimensional Stability
With a high heat deflection temperature of up to 144 °C, parts printed with PC maintain their structural integrity and dimensional accuracy in elevated temperature environments. This thermal stability ensures that components perform predictably and consistently, which is critical for precise-fitting assemblies and tools.
Design and Processing
Print and Support Material Compatibility
Polycarbonate (PC) is optimized for use on Stratasys FDM systems. For maximum design freedom, it is compatible with both SR-100 soluble support material for complex internal geometries and PC BASS (breakaway support system) for faster, tool-free removal on simpler parts.
Lifecycle
From Functional Prototypes to Production Parts
PC is a versatile material that supports the entire product lifecycle. It is strong enough for rigorous functional testing of prototypes and durable enough for deployment as low-volume production parts or custom factory tooling. This allows engineering teams to use a single material for validation, jigs and fixtures, and final component production.
- Available colours
- White · Black · Translucent Red
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