Polycarbonate-Polybutylene Terephthalate (PC-PBT) Filament for 3D Printing
Overview
Polycarbonate-Polybutylene Terephthalate (PC-PBT) is a high-performance thermoplastic blend that combines the strength and heat resistance of Polycarbonate (PC) with the chemical resistance and toughness of Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT). This material is known for its excellent mechanical properties, dimensional stability, and ease of processing, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications.
Advantages
- High Strength and Toughness: PC-PBT offers superior mechanical properties, providing high impact resistance and durability.
- Heat Resistance: Can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for applications that operate in hot environments.
- Chemical Resistance: Exhibits excellent resistance to a wide range of chemicals, including oils, greases, and solvents.
- 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.
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: 10%
- Flexural Modulus: 2.3 GPa (0.33 x 10⁶ psi)
- Flexural Strength: 85 MPa (12 x 10³ psi)
- Glass Transition Temperature: 150°C (302°F)
- Melting Onset (Solidus): 265°C (509°F)
- Shear Strength: 60 MPa (8.7 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: 70 µm/m-K
- Water Absorption After 24 Hours: 0.2%
Material Properties for 3D Printing
- Printing Temperature: 250-270°C
- Flow Tweak: 0.95
- Bed Temperature: 100-120°C
- Bed Preparation: Use a PEI sheet or apply a specialized adhesive for optimal adhesion
Features
- High Impact Resistance: Ideal for printing parts that need to withstand significant mechanical stress and impacts.
- Heat and Chemical Resistance: Suitable for applications exposed to high temperatures and harsh chemicals.
- Dimensional Accuracy: Provides consistent and accurate prints, maintaining its shape and size under various conditions.
- Electrical Insulation: Offers good electrical insulating properties, making it suitable for electrical components.
Additional Considerations
- Storage: Store PC-PBT 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
- Automotive Parts: Suitable for printing automotive components that require high strength, heat resistance, and chemical resistance.
- Electrical Enclosures: Ideal for creating enclosures for electrical components due to its insulating properties and durability.
- Industrial Equipment: Used for printing parts that need to endure harsh industrial environments.
- Functional Prototypes: Perfect for prototyping mechanical parts that need to withstand rigorous testing and stress.
By understanding these properties and considerations, you can effectively use PC-PBT in your 3D printing projects to achieve high-quality, durable, and heat-resistant results.
PC-PBT remains a top choice for many 3D printing applications due to its exceptional strength, toughness, heat, and chemical resistance, making it ideal for both industrial and consumer applications.