Description
proto-Pasta Carbon Fiber Composite HTPLA is a high performance, carbon fiber reinforced PLA. This combination allows for much stiffer 3D prints with excellent structural strength. The extraordinary dimensional stability results from an enormous layer adhesion with very low deformation. The pressure objects tolerate ambient temperatures of up to 155 °C (310 ° F). The reduced flexibility makes our carbon fiber HTPLA an ideal material for frames, supports, shells, propellers, tools ... everything that was required for high torsional rigidity. It is especially loved by drone builders and RC hobbyists.
Finish
The embedded carbon component provides a matt finish with noble shine, which makes the layer structure almost disappear at a layer height of 0.1 mm!
Hardware
Suitable for all PLA-compatible printers that allow third-party filaments. A heatable print bed is recommended, but is not mandatory. The printer should be equipped with a nozzle suitable for abrasive material (e.g. stainless steel). Also observe possible premature wear of cable components such as Bowden tubes, drive wheels, nozzles and other components on the filament path. See this blog post for more information. Here we demonstrate the exchange and the settings of nozzles on a Prusa MK3. Reduce nozzle wear by minimizing overextrusion and filling.
Print
Tested pressure settings are based on typical nozzle setpoints within a wide temperature range. At relatively low print speeds, HTPLA prints well at the bottom of the recommended range. Higher speeds may require higher temperatures than specified for even extrusion. In some cases, oil the filament makes the difference between success and failure.
Post-processing
Carbon-fiber HTPLA printing objects can be reworked with a sharp blade for a smooth finish. Experiment with weathering or other painting techniques for a unique look. The adhesion of glued parts is much higher than that of filaments without carbon fiber. Carbon fiber HTPLA is designed for heat treatment (tempering or crystallizing) for use at higher temperatures. Heat treatment produces a crystalline molecular structure that maintains stiffness even close to the melting limit. Shrinkage generated by crystallization should be scaled in advance to compensate in the slicer.
