Italian strengthened thermoplastic composites producer Xenia Supplies has launched XECARB PPA-CF, a fused filament fabrication (FFF)/fused deposition modeling (FDM) filament constructed on a bio-based polyphthalamide (PPA) matrix strengthened with 20% carbon fiber.
The fabric has been developed for technically demanding functions the place mechanical efficiency, stiffness, dimensional stability, and elevated temperature resistance are required, and carries a density of 1.21 g/cm³ and a warmth deflection temperature (HDT) of as much as 235°C.
Carbon fiber reinforcement reduces shrinkage and warpage throughout printing, contributing to course of repeatability and dimensional accuracy in completed elements. The fabric has additionally demonstrated resistance to solvents, oils, and greases — properties the corporate said are important for chemical compatibility necessities in industrial settings.
Tooling and structural elements
The filament is being positioned for the manufacturing of light-weight structural components throughout automotive, aerospace, and industrial sectors, with goal functions together with manufacturing tooling resembling jigs, meeting masks, drilling guides, and robotic gripping methods.
“XECARB PPA-CF delivers excessive mechanical, thermal and dimensional efficiency, that are key necessities for the manufacturing of structural elements through FFF 3D printing,” said Stefano Azzolin, Account Supervisor of Xenia’s 3DF Supplies division.
“The fabric is utilized in manufacturing instruments and fixtures resembling jigs, meeting masks, drilling guides and robotic gripping methods, in addition to in technical elements for high-stress industrial environments the place resistance and operational reliability are vital.”
Portfolio growth
The brand new filament extends Xenia’s 3DF Supplies lineup, which already consists of a variety of carbon-fiber strengthened grades.
Its XECARB PA11-CF-SL is a bio-based PA11 grade strengthened with 15% carbon fiber, and the XELIGHT PEBA presents an ultra-light versatile filament for weight-sensitive functions.
XECARB PVDF-CF is a chemically resistant and electrically conductive grade strengthened with 10% carbon fiber, XEGREEN PETG-CF makes use of recycled PETG and recycled carbon fiber, and XECARB PA12-CF-ST is a PA12-based grade with 15% carbon fiber and impact-resistance modification.