Polycarbonate (PC) Filament for 3D Printing
Overview
Polycarbonate (PC) is a high-performance thermoplastic known for its exceptional strength, toughness, and transparency. It is widely used in 3D printing for applications that require durable and heat-resistant parts. PC is particularly valued for its high impact resistance and ability to withstand elevated temperatures, making it suitable for both industrial and consumer applications.
Advantages
- High Strength and Toughness: Polycarbonate offers excellent mechanical properties, providing superior impact resistance and durability.
- Heat Resistance: PC can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for applications that operate in hot environments.
- Transparency: Offers good optical clarity, which is beneficial for parts that require transparency.
- Dimensional Stability: Maintains its shape and size under varying conditions, ensuring reliable performance.
- Good Electrical Insulation: Suitable for electrical components due to its insulating properties.
Disadvantages
- High Printing Temperature: Requires high printing temperatures, which may not be compatible with all 3D printers.
- Warping and Adhesion: Tends to warp during printing, requiring a heated bed and proper adhesion techniques.
- Moisture Sensitivity: Absorbs moisture from the air, affecting print quality and mechanical properties if not stored properly.
- Post-Processing: Can be difficult to post-process due to its toughness and high melting point.
Technical Specifications
- Density: 1.2 g/cm³ (75 lb/ft³)
- Dielectric Constant (Relative Permittivity): 3.0
- Dielectric Strength (Breakdown Potential): 18 kV/mm (0.7 V/mil)
- Elastic (Young’s, Tensile) Modulus: 2.4 GPa (0.35 x 10⁶ psi)
- Elongation at Break: 6%
- Flexural Modulus: 2.1 GPa (0.31 x 10⁶ psi)
- Flexural Strength: 90 MPa (13 x 10³ psi)
- Glass Transition Temperature: 150°C (302°F)
- Melting Onset (Solidus): 265°C (509°F)
- Shear Strength: 55 MPa (8.0 x 10³ psi)
- Specific Heat Capacity: 1200 J/kg-K
- Strength-to-Weight Ratio: 50 kN-m/kg
- Tensile Strength: Ultimate (UTS): 70 MPa (10 x 10³ psi)
- Thermal Conductivity: 0.20 W/m-K
- Thermal Diffusivity: 0.15
- Thermal Expansion: 65 µm/m-K
- Water Absorption After 24 Hours: 0.2%
Material Properties for 3D Printing
- Printing Temperature: 220-250°C
- Flow Tweak: 0.93
- Bed Temperature: 85-100°C
- Bed Preparation: Use a PP-specific adhesive or a polyimide tape on the print bed for optimal adhesion
Features
- High Impact Resistance: Ideal for printing parts that need to withstand significant mechanical stress and impacts.
- Heat Resistant: Suitable for applications exposed to high temperatures.
- Optical Clarity: Can be used for printing transparent or translucent parts.
- Dimensional Accuracy: Provides consistent and accurate prints, maintaining its shape and size under various conditions.
Additional Considerations
- Storage: Store PC filament in a dry, cool place with desiccant to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to printing defects.
- Printing Environment: Ensure proper bed adhesion and controlled printing environment to minimize warping and improve print quality.
- Post-Processing: Use appropriate tools and techniques for post-processing due to the material’s toughness and high melting point.
Application Examples
- Protective Gear: Ideal for creating durable and impact-resistant protective equipment.
- Automotive Parts: Suitable for printing automotive components that require high strength and heat resistance.
- Transparent Enclosures: Used for printing clear or translucent enclosures for electronics and other devices.
- Functional Prototypes: Perfect for prototyping mechanical parts that need to endure rigorous testing and stress.
By understanding these properties and considerations, you can effectively use Polycarbonate (PC) in your 3D printing projects to achieve high-quality, durable, and heat-resistant results.
Polycarbonate (PC) remains a top choice for many 3D printing applications due to its exceptional strength, toughness, and ability to withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for both industrial and consumer applications.