3D printers for polycarbonate

What is a Polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic material originally derived from processed propane and other materials. Plastic is commonly used for medical devices, eyewear, and so much more. It’s also pretty popular for 3D printing!

In fact, polycarbonate filament is considered the single strongest filament material, achieving tensile strengths greater than ABS, PETG, and even Nylon. When tested, a clip 3D printed in polycarbonate was able to hold an incredible 685 pounds without breaking, while PLA and ABS both failed before 300 pounds. So next time you’re printing a gear or another model that will face physical stresses, definitely give PC filament a consideration.

But strength isn’t the only unique property of polycarbonate!

For instance, PC is a hygroscopic material. This means the plastic absorbs moisture from the air pretty rapidly. So, if you leave a spool of PC filament in a humid environment, it will soak it all in, leading to bubbling in the hot end and brittle prints. As such, it’s recommended to always store PC filament in a drybox or sealed container of some kind.

Similar to PLA, PC is also decently sensitive to UV light so it should only be used for indoor projects.  

Polycarbonate filament comes in a multitude of colors but is usually transparent as this is the natural color of the plastic. This makes PC a unique choice as it is one of a few filaments that you can use for printing transparent items like lamp shades.

Sadly, though, printing polycarbonate is no easy feat. 

We’ll talk more about how you can print PC in a later section, but it requires much more intensive hardware requirements than almost any other traditional filament material. And, even with the necessary hardware, you’ll have to fine-tune a slicer profile in order to achieve high-quality prints.

When To Use Polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate is perfect when you are in need of a strong or transparent material. That’s why PC is so popular for industrial applications that require a lot of strength, such as machinery guards, eyeglasses, and even bulletproof glass.

Similarly, in a 3D printing setting, you should use PC filament whenever you want a model to be super strong and durable. For example, if you’re printing a computer monitor stand, door hinge, or a gear for a robot, you’ll want all the strength you can get, and PC provides just that!

Sadly, though, you shouldn’t use PC for outdoor prints as the plastic won’t respond well to the UV light from the sun. So if you need a strong outdoor print, consider using PETG filament.

Also, you shouldn’t use polycarbonate filament when you want to print a display model, like a miniature or cosplay set. While you may want these models to be strong, PC isn’t the best at providing detail in 3D prints, so you should consider materials like PLA or ABS instead.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Polycarbonate 3D Printing

As mentioned above, there are numerous advantages when it comes to printing with PC. In addition to the material’s strength, heat resistance, and natural transparency, PC is also more durable, flexible, and less dense than other filaments.  

Transparency comes with its own advantages! The transparent nature of PC is helpful in printing and also serves as an aesthetic option. 

However, there are some things to look out for and consider such as printing machinery, print settings, and the surrounding environment before using PC. 

When printing with PC, there are several extensive hardware requirements. PC requires the use of a hot nozzle, heated bed, and an enclosed printing space. These requirements are necessary as PC is very sensitive to its surroundings and will not print properly unless all parts are correctly set.

Printing issues such as warping of the finished product and over-extrusion can arise if printing and storage requirements are not met. As mentioned earlier, PC is hygroscopic and will react negatively (usually swelling) when introduced to water directly or if there’s any water in the air. It is critical to keep your PC filaments and projects in dry areas. 

PC’s last disadvantage is its price. While it is a little steeper than other filaments, it is worth it in the long run for certain projects due to the strength and heat resistance PC has. Prices vary between brands and based on quality but they usually sit between $30 and $60 for a spool around 750 grams.

How to 3D Print Polycarbonate?

Printing with PC can be difficult if you don’t have the proper setup or settings met. However, once you have perfected the necessary requirements, the payoff is worth it. 

Your first step when printing with PC is to make sure the material is dry. The hygroscopic PC will warp if it was exposed to too much water before printing, so before you even touch your printer settings, make sure your filament was stored properly in a dry environment. 

Next, you need to look at the temperature of your nozzle. PC is extremely heat resistant, which is great for the final project but makes the printing process a little difficult. You want your nozzle temperature to sit between 300-310 °C to make sure the PC will flow properly, but of course, play around with your own setup to see what works best for you.  

After setting your nozzle temperature, it is time to adjust the bed temperature. Considering that the PC is already coming out extremely hot, it’s important that you make sure that the filament does not stick to the bed!! To do so, the ideal bed temperature ranges from 145-150 °C, but a consistent heat of 135°C is also acceptable if it is the most your printer can do. 

It is also important to have an enclosed printer to ensure that the ambient temperature around your printed model is high enough to ensure good layer-to-layer adhesion during the printing process.

There are some extra things to take care of before you start printing. Make sure to disable any cooling fans during the printing process as it can cause the filament to warp and have other negative responses. Also, just like other filaments, the first layer is the most important!! If your print settings are not met perfectly, the rest of your print can suffer. But PC is easily recyclable so don’t worry if your first layer isn’t ideal.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a 3D Printer for Polycarbonate:

If you’re still here, you’re probably interested in purchasing your own 3D printer. But don’t just buy any 3D printer because most aren’t equipped with the hardware necessary to print polycarbonate filament. In the mini-sections below, we’ve gone over the main features to look for on a 3D printer for printing PC, such as bed temperature, enclosure presence, and more!

Material Compatibility

The first and most important factor to look at in a 3D printer is its material compatibility. Usually, the manufacturer will list which filaments do and don’t work on the machine but don’t always trust this information. Instead, look in the reviews and on Reddit (or other forums) to see which filaments actual users were able to print on the machine.

Also, make sure to check the maximum nozzle temperature, as this is a big regulator for material compatibility. If the nozzle can’t reach and stay at the necessary temperatures for printing PC, then the printer can not actually print polycarbonate. Remember: you want a maximum nozzle temperature of between 260-310 °C if you want to print PC.

Bed Temperature

It’s crucial to check the printer’s maximum bed temperature and to have a properly heated bed. PC will stick to a bed that’s not properly heated, which can cause damage to your print and can even make it impossible to remove the print from the bed. The max bed temperature in most printers sits at 135°C. However, the optimal temperature for printing PC sits between 145°C and 150°C. Looking for or modifying a printer that can reach those bed temperatures can make or break a project. 

Enclosure

As we mentioned, an enclosure is also necessary for printing PC filament, as it keeps heat around your model and prevents air draft. Without one, your PC prints will be super brittle, contain low-quality detail, and have other issues.

As such, you should look for a 3D printer that has a built-in enclosure. However, you can also get a printer without one and then build or buy an enclosure for the printer afterward. This is what I like to do as it usually ends up being cheaper (especially if you DIY it), and gives you some customization abilities. Check out our article on the best enclosures here.

Build Plate

The bed’s material is just as important as its temperature. A Polyetherimide (PEI) sheet is the best printing bed option for PC. Painters tape or glue sticks will adhere permanently to the prints due to its high printing temperatures, so they are not viable options, but PEI is extremely heat resistant and has high-temperature stability– great for PC printing!!

Build Volume

Lastly, don’t forget about the build volume. You wouldn’t want to get a printer that’s perfect at everything but can only print super tiny models.

While there’s no single volume that’s good for everyone, it’s smart to think about the sizes of the models you’ll be printing and establish a minimum volume that you’re looking for. For example, when I look for a 3D printer, I don’t choose one unless it’s got at least 200 x 200 x 200 mm of print space.

Conclusion

Are you ready to start printing with PC now? While printing with polycarbonate may be intimidating due to the filament’s requirement for a perfect climate, don’t worry!  This is an opportunity to use this incredible material.

PC is extremely strong, durable, heat resistant, and unique to use. The main takeaway about printing with polycarbonate is the printing environment. Make sure to store your PC  in a dry environment, or it will swell and can ruin your print. Also, make sure your printer has the proper nozzle and bed temperature and is a properly enclosed space to create the best environment for the PC. 

Our recommendations from this selection of printers would vary based on what you want. If you’re looking for an enclosure for quality, the Prusa i3 MK3S+ is the best option for you. The CR-10S is perfect if you want an enclosure for build space and the Pulse XE is the go-to for any other feature you want, like automatic bed leveling. 

The feats of 3D printing are never-ending and, while a more difficult process, printing with polycarbonate only further proves that anything can be possible.

7 Best 3D Printers for Printing Polycarbonate & Carbon Fiber Successfully – 3D Printerly

If you are looking for a 3D printer that can 3D print several materials including Polycarbonate & Carbon Fiber, you are in the right place. There are advanced materials that can sometimes require high specs to achieve good printing results.

Luckily, manufacturers have started to create advanced materials that don’t need really high printing temperatures.

An amazing composite material which is the PRILINE Carbon Fiber Polycarbonate on Amazon requires a printing temperature of 240-260°C and a bed temperature of 80-100°C.

Now that you’ve been introduced to some high quality Polycarbonate/Carbon Fiber filament that you can 3D print successfully at low temperatures, let’s move on to what 3D printers are best to have it printed!

The Creality CR-10S is an upgraded version of the Creality CR-10, its predecessor. It has some pretty sweet improvements and upgrades from the previous version that assists you in picking the right 3D printer with good features.

This printer has come up with some of the best 3D printing features such as a better Z-axis, auto-resume feature, filament run-out detection, and more.

Polycarbonate and some Carbon Fiber filaments can require high hotend and print bed temperature and Creality CR-10S has the ability to handle PC plastic while producing some strong and heat-resistant prints.

The build volume is one of the main highlights of this machine, as well as its simplistic, yet effective design.

Features of the Creality CR-10S

• Print Resume Capability
• Automatic Bed Leveling
• Heated Removable Glass Print Bed
• Large Build Volume
• Dual Z-Axis Drive Screws
• MK10 Extruder Technology
• Easy 10 Minute Assembly
• Filament Run-Out Sensor
• External Control Brick

Specifications of the Creality CR-10S

• Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 400mm
• Max. Printing Speed: 200mm/s
• Print Resolution: 0.1 – 0.4mm
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 270°C
• Maximum Bed Temperature: 100°C
• Filament Diameter: 1. 75mm
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
• Extruder: Single
• Connectivity: USB A, MicroSD card
• Bed Levelling: Manual
• Build Area: Open
• Compatible Printing Materials: PLA / ABS / TPU / Wood/ Copper/ etc.

User Experience of the Creality CR-10S

Although there are plenty of reasons that make Creality CR-10S a worth buying 3D printer, its filament sensor is one of the best-serving things specifically while printing large size print models.

The resume print feature offers great convenience as it prevents your prints from becoming trash. It keeps the reckoned of each layer and ensures the consistent continuity of the print model in case of a power outage.

It has been classified as the best 3D printer under the price range of $500. This all comes because of its easy operations, easy customization, and highly advanced features that can be availed at a relatively low price.

Pros of the Creality CR-10S

• Can get detailed 3D prints right out of the box
• Large build volume
• The sturdy aluminum frame gives it great durability and stability
• Sweet extra features like filament run-out detection and power resume function
• Fast printing speeds

Cons of the Creality CR-10S

• Noisy operation
• The print bed can take a while to heat up
• Poor first layer adhesion in some instances, but can be fixed with adhesives or a different build surface
• The wiring setup is quite messy compared to other 3D printers
• Instructions for assembly aren’t the clearest, so I’d recommend using a video tutorial
• The filament detector can easily come loose as there isn’t much holding it in place

Final Thoughts

If you want to print your models with a wide range of printing materials and you are looking for a machine that can offer you reliability, high quality, and area to print large models, Creality CR-10S is for you.

Get your Creality CR-10S 3D printer right now on Amazon.

Qidi Tech is a China-based 3D printer manufacturer that truly aims to bring high-quality printers that offer premium performance.

The Qidi Tech X-Plus (Amazon) is one of the most famous 3D printers that are best suitable for people who want to print different types of filaments while not compromising on high-quality pints.

You can get a clear idea about its performance and capabilities just by looking at the ratings and feedback given by the users on Amazon.

Features of the Qidi Tech X-Plus

• Large Enclosed Installation Space
• Two Sets of Direct Drive Extruders
• Internal and External Filament Holder
• Quiet Printing (40 dB)
• Air Filtration
• Wi-Fi Connection & Computer Monitoring Interface
• Qidi Tech Build Plate
• 5-inch Color Touch Screen
• Automatic Leveling
• Automatic Shutdown after Printing
• Power Off Resume Function

Specifications of the Qidi Tech X-Plus

• Build Volume: 270 x 200 x 200mm
• Extruder Type: Direct Drive
• Extruder Type: Single nozzle
• Nozzle Size: 0. 4mm
• Hotend Temperature: 260°C
• Heated Bed Temperature: 100°C
• Print Bed Material: PEI
• Frame: Aluminum
• Bed Leveling: Manual (Assisted)
• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, LAN
• Print Recovery: Yes
• Filament Sensor: Yes
• Filament Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, Flexibles
• Operating System: Windows, Mac OSX
• File Types: STL, OBJ, AMF
• Frame Dimensions: 710 x 540 x 520mm
• Weight: 23 KG

User Experience of the Qidi Tech X-Plus

Qidi Tech X-Plus is a well-constructed 3D printer which is extremely easy and simple to set up. It has a bunch of useful features that allow users to get prints of high quality with little effort.

Its slicing software is totally easy to get the hang of, which means that you can understand and operate the whole slicing software with just a little knowledge about the software.

The bed leveling system is far easier to operate compared to almost all other 3D printers in the market. The flexible magnetic build plate and this bed leveling system give you a system that is easy to use and provides great performance.

The Qidi Tech X-Plus meets all the requirements needed to print Polycarbonate as it comes with two extruders, one of which can reach a high temperature of 300°C.

This extruder is specifically included in this 3D printer to print high-performance filaments such as Nylon, Carbon Fiber, and Polycarbonate.

Pros of the Qidi Tech X-Plus

• The professional 3D printer is known for its reliability and quality
• Great 3D printer for beginners, intermediate, and expert level
• Amazing track record of helpful customer service
• Very easy to set up and get printing – works out the box nicely
• Has clear instructions unlike many 3D printers out there
• Made to be sturdy and durable for the long-run
• The flexible print bed makes removing 3D prints a lot easier

Cons of the Qidi Tech X-Plus

• Operation/display can be a little confusing at first, but once you figure it out, it becomes simple
• A few instances spoke about a damaged part here and there like a bolt, but customer service quickly fixes these issues

Final Thoughts

No matter if you are a beginner on professional experts, the Qidi Tech X-Plus can really give you a smooth 3D printing experience.

If you are a beginner and looking for a printer that is simple and offers good prints or you are an expert and looking for a consistent printer, Qidi Tech X-Plus should be your destination.

The amount of performance, the power, features, and print quality included in this 3D printer is quite valuable.

You can check out the Qidi Tech X-Plus on Amazon today.

Prusa is a very well-known company in the 3D printing industry, known for it’s top-rated 3D printers.

One 3D printer that has pretty much all the features you’d want in a 3D printer, plus more is the Prusa i3 Mk3S+, a fresh version of their filament printer series.

They introduced the  brand new SuperPINDA probe which provides a better level of first layer calibration, especially useful for your Polycarbonate or Carbon Fiber 3D prints.

You also have the special Misumi bearings along with other cool design adjustments that make the assembly process a lot easier to go through, as well as maintain the overall 3D printer.

3D printing some of the best quality objects are a breeze with this machine. It has the high quality heated bed with removable PEI spring steel print sheets, automatic Mesh Bed Leveling, along with plenty more.

Prusa Research always tries to come up with better machines and this has been done in this 3D printer as well.

Prusa has included various new features, improvements, and upgrades depending on the feedback and reviews taken from the users of previous models.

This 3D printer gives you a serious range of printing temperature, reaching all the way up to 300°C so you can 3D print all sorts of advanced materials. Polycarbonate filament and Carbon Fiber spools are no match for this printer.

It also has a print bed temperature that can reach up to 120°C for your bed adhesion needs.

Features of the Prusa i3 Mk3S+

• Resigned and Upgraded Extruder
• MK52 Magnetic Heated Print Bed
• New Print Profiles on Slic3r Software
• Older Enhancements Included
• Power Loss Recovery
• Filament Sensor
• Automatic Bed Leveling
• Frame Stability
• Fast and Quiet Printing Process
• Bondtech Extruders

Specifications of the Prusa i3 Mk3S+

• Build Volume: 250 x 210 x 200mm
• Display: LCD Touch Screen
• Extruder Type: Single, Direct Drive, E3D V6 Hotend
• Nozzle Size: 0. 4mm
• Print Resolution: 0.05mm or 50 microns
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 300°C
• Print Bed: Magnetic Removable Plate, Heated, PEI Coating
• Maximum Heated Bed Temperature: 120°C
• Bed Leveling: Automatic
• Connectivity: USB, SD Card
• Best Suitable Slicers: Prusa Slic3r, Prusa Control
• Compatible Printing Material: PLA, ABS, PETG, Polycarbonate, Carbon Fiber, Polypropylene, Nylon etc.
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Print Recovery: Yes
• Assembly: Fully Assembled
• Weight: 6.35 KG (13.99 Pounds)

User Experience of the Prusa i3 Mk3S+

Users tested this 3D printer using its default settings and found it as one of the most capable 3D printers in terms of quality and precision. The print quality it offers is exceptional, and it is far easy to use as compared to many other 3D printers in the market.

While being honest, this 3D printer is not much changed than its previous versions, but this includes some new features while many old features are updated or improved.

If we talk about overall performance, it is pretty much the same as its previous models.

One of the best things about this 3D printer is that it is completely open-source. This factor allows users to hack printers through many ways and update it in a much easier and efficient way.

The community for Prusa is one to be appreciated, having a thriving forum and plenty of Facebook Groups where you can get assistance, or some cool new ideas to try out.

A 3D printer that is easy to assemble and provides top quality prints is one that most people can appreciate.

Removing the print from the build plate is more than easy, requires far less post-processing, and it is one of the 3D printers that offer the same excellent quality no matter if it is your 1st print or the 100th.

With other 3D printers, you can run into printing issues and need to troubleshoot, but this one is known to have a really high success rate with prints, along with the impressive print quality.

Pros of the Prusa i3 Mk3S+

• Offers consistent and high-quality print models
• There weren’t any misprints in experts’ initial testing
• Enthusiastic and helpful customer support community
• Supports various types of filament printing materials
• This 3D printer comes with a 1-Kg spool of PLA filaments
• Includes auto-calibration and filament crash/runout detection
• Has useful and professionally designed user guides for a better experience.
• Versatile and user-friendly slicer software
• Pause, recover, resume or restart your printing process in case of a power outage.

Cons of the Prusa i3 Mk3S+

• Quite expensive compared to most 3D printers, but worth it according to its users
• No enclosure so it requires a little more safety
• In its default print settings, support structures can be quite dense
• No built-in Wi-Fi but it’s optional with a Raspberry Pi.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a 3D printer that is easy to use and offers reliable and high-quality prints, this should be your destination. Although it is not cheap at $999.00, it pays the price in terms of its amazing features.

Its customer support service and many fans of discussion forums can help you if you get stuck at some point while using these 3D printers. You can get your Prusa i3 Mk3S+ by visiting their official site and placing your order.

Creality are a very prominent 3D printer manufacturer that produce amazing quality 3D printers at surprisingly competitive prices. We were first blessed with the Ender 3, but we now have access to the big brother, the Ender 3 V2.

On top of the satisfaction that people got with the Ender 3, we have even more features and specifications to appreciate with this fresher model.

After a complete study of the Ender 3 series and users’ feedback, this 3D printer is developed with silent stepper motor drivers, a 32-bit motherboard, a clear and compact design, as well as various other minor to major additions.

The Ender 3 series is consistently being modified to fill its gaps and this Ender 3 V2 (Amazon) has the ability to print normal as well as industrial grade models using engineered printing material including Polycarbonate.

You may need some tweaking of settings and an enclosure to print Polycarbonate and Carbon Fiber filaments to a good standard.

Features of the Ender 3 V2

• Open Build Space
• Glass Platform
• High-Quality Meanwell Power Supply
• 3-Inch LCD Color Screen
• XY-Axis Tensioners
• Built-In Storage Compartment
• New Silent Motherboard
• Fully Upgraded Hotend & Fan Duct
• Smart Filament Run Out Detection
• Effortless Filament Feeding
• Print Resume Capabilities
• Quick-Heating Hot Bed

Specifications of the Ender 3 V2

• Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250mm
• Maximum Printing Speed: 180mm/s
• Layer Height/Print Resolution: 0.1mm
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 255°C
• Maximum Bed Temperature: 100°C
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
• Extruder: Single
• Connectivity: MicroSD Card, USB.
• Bed Levelling: Manual
• Build Area: Open
• Compatible Printing Materials: PLA, TPU, PETG

User Experience of the Ender 3 V2

As its glass print platform is mounted on an aluminum plate, it improves the adhesion properties of various filaments and its flat surface allows you to remove your models from the plate without any hassle.

Ender 3 V2 has a high-resolution HD color display that can be controlled using a click wheel allowing you to operate different tasks with ease.

It also has an upgraded 32-bit motherboard that offers fairly quiet operation so that you can use it in your house without being disturbed or disturbing others.

Pros of the Ender 3 V2

• Easy to use for beginners, giving out high performance and much enjoyment
• Relatively cheap and great value for money
• Great support community
• Design and structure look very aesthetically pleasing
• High precision printing
• 5 minutes to heat up
• All-metal body gives stability and durability
• Easy to assemble and maintain
• Power supply is integrated underneath the build-plate unlike the Ender 3
• It is modular and easy to customize

Cons of the Ender 3 V2

• A bit difficult to assemble
• Open build space is not ideal for minors
• Only 1 motor on the Z-axis
• Glass beds do tend to be heavier so it may lead to ringing in prints
• No touchscreen interface like some other modern printers

Final Thoughts

This inexpensive 3D printer has to offer benefits and features that may not be found in any other 3D printer of this price range. With its amazing features, printing ability, and quality, this machine is definitely a great option.

You can order your Ender 3 V2 from Amazon today.

The X-Max is the top premium and advanced 3D printer ever manufactured by the Qidi Tech manufacturer.

Qidi Tech X-Max has a large printing area allowing users to print large models while providing a more stable and high-performance 3D printing experience.

You have the options to print filaments such as PLA, ABS, TPU, which are commonly printed on almost all types of 3D printers but on X-Max you can also print Nylon, Carbon Fiber, PC (Polycarbonate), etc.

Features of the Qidi Tech X-Max

• Supports Plenty of Filament Material
• Decent and Reasonable Build Volume
• Closed Print Chamber
• Color Touch Screen with Great UI
• Magnetic Removable Build Platform
• Air Filter
• Dual Z-Axis
• Swappable Extruders
• One Button, Fats Bed Leveling
• Versatile Connectivity from SD Card to USB and Wi-Fi

Specifications of the Qidi Tech X-Max

• Technology: FDM
• Brand/Manufacturer: Qidi Technology
• Frame Material: Aluminum
• Body Frame Dimensions: 600 x 550 x 600mm
• Operating Systems: Windows XP/7/8/10, Mac
• Display: LCD Color Touch Screen
• Mechanical Arrangements: Cartesian
• Extruder Type: Single
• Filament Diameter: 1. 75mm
• Nozzle Size: 0.4mm
• Accuracy: 0.1mm
• Maximum Build Volume: 300 x 250 x 300mm
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 300 Degrees Celsius
• Print Bed: Magnetic Removable Plate
• Maximum Heated Bed Temperature: 100 Degrees Celsius
• Feeder Mechanism: Direct Drive
• Bed Leveling: Manual
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet Cable
• Best Suitable Slicers: Cura-Based Qidi Print
• Compatible printing Material: PLA, ABS, Nylon, ASA, TPU, Carbon Fiber, PC
• Third-Party Filament Support: Yes
• Print Recovery: Yes
• Assembly: Fully Assembled
• Weight: 27.9 KG (61.50 Pounds)

User Experience of the Qidi Tech X-Max

If you have calibrated your X-Max 3D printer properly and according to your models, you will never get a failed print.

One of the best things about the Qidi Tech X-Max 3D printer is that you don’t need to level your print bed every time before you start a printing process as you do in almost all other 3D printers in the market.

The Qidi Tech X-Max saves your time in this regard as the bed can stay level for a relatively long time allowing you to print with consistent quality.

It is equipped with two different extruders that are specifically designed for different purposes.

One extruder is included to print common materials such as PLA, ABS, and TPU while the second extruder is mainly included to print more demanding filaments such as Nylon, Carbon Fiber, and PC.

While printing with later filaments, it is recommended to use a better nozzle as compared to common brass nozzles.

For such hygroscopic 3D printing filaments, it will be the best investment if you spend some money on a filament dryer.

I’d recommend getting a dryer that has the ability to keep your filament protected from moisture or damp air even when your filament spool is being used.

Because of its enclosed environment, it can easily maintain temperature for a long time making it able to handle filaments that are normally considered difficult to print.

Pros of the Qidi Tech X-Max

• Compact and smart design
• Large build area to print big-size models
• Versatile in terms of different printing materials
• Does not require any assembly as it is pre-assembled and ready to be used.
• Easy to use and excellent user interface
• Easy to set up
• Includes a pause and resume function for additional ease of printing
• Fully enclosed illuminated chamber that helps in maintaining temperature
• Operates at a reliably low level of noise
• Experienced and helpful customer support service

Cons of the Qidi Tech X-Max

• Comes with a single extruder, limiting the feature of dual extrusion.
• A heavyweight machine as compared to other 3D printers.
• There is no filament runout detection sensor.
• No remote control and monitoring system.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a 3D printer that is impressive and attractive, Qidi Tech X-Max is an incredible machine that has excellent durability, stability, reliability, and well-suited features that offer high-quality prints.

The Qidi Tech X-Max is an outstanding and excellent 3D printer for printing polycarbonate and other related filaments.

This printer is capable of printing accurate and detailed 3D prints even if you are using high-performance printing material such as polycarbonate and Carbon Fiber. All these factors allow you to print faster with a wide range of printing materials.

Check out Qidi Tech X-Max on Amazon today and place your order right now.

The Ender 3 Pro is a great 3D printer with an attractive sturdy design, improved mechanical properties, advanced features, and magnetic printing surface.

It is the younger version of the Ender 3 V2 above, but if you want a cheaper option that still gets the job done, this could be great for you.

The Ender 3 Pro (Amazon) can offer you high-quality prints and great performance with a wide range of filaments. Its performance, features, and work can put most of the high-priced 3D printers to shame.

It’s the previous version of the Ender 3 V2, but still operates at a high standard, just without some of the extra features such as the silent motherboard and the more compact design.

Features of the Ender 3 Pro

• Aluminum Extrusion for Y-Axis
• Updated and Improved Extruder Print Head
• Magnetic Print Bed
• Print Resume/Recovery Feature
• LCD HD Resolution Touch Screen
• Meanwell Power Supply
• Premium Quality High Precision Printing
• Integrated Structure
• Linear Pulley System
• Large Bed Leveling Nuts
• High Standard V-Profile

Specifications of the Ender 3 Pro

• Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250mm
• Frame Material: Aluminum
• Body Frame Dimensions: 440 x 440 x 465mm
• Display: LCD Color Touch Screen
• Extruder Type: Single
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Print Resolution: 0.1mm
• Nozzle Size: 0.4mm
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 255°C
• Maximum Heated Bed Temperature: 110°C
• Max Printing Speed: 180 mm/s
• Bed Leveling: Manual
• Connectivity: SD Card
• File Type: STL, OBJ, AMF
• Compatible printing Material: PLA, ABS, Nylon, TPU, Carbon Fiber, PC, Wood
• Third-Party Filament Support: Yes
• Print Recovery: Yes
• Resume Function: Yes
• Assembly: Semi Assembled
• Weight: 8. 6 KG (18.95 Pounds)

User Experience of the Ender 3 Pro

Ender 3 Pro is best suitable for users who are on a tight budget and looking for a machine that doesn’t require much tweaking of settings and offers amazing print quality with minimum effort.

Test prints from Ender 3 Pro were compared to some of the most well-known 3D printers in the market such as Anycubic i3 Mega and results were quite the same.

When it comes to consistent quality, performance, and ease of usage, some users even say that Ender 3 Pro is far better than their previously used 3D printers that were above the $1,000 price range.

Because of the printer’s maximum temperature range, the Ender 3 Pro can easily print normal Polycarbonate, as well as Carbon Fiber composite filament.

It’s a good idea to check your filaments’ temperature before buying, so you can get one that can be printed with the 260°C maximum. It is still possible to upgrade your hotend and boost this maximum temperature.

Pros of the Ender 3 Pro

• Highly affordable for a beginner to a professional
• Easy to assemble, setup, and operate
• Comes in a compact design
• A reasonable build volume
• Consistently offers prints of high and consistent quality
• Easy to hack which allows users to upgrade their 3D printer without any hard-to-do techniques.
• Has a tight filament path which improves the painter’s compatibility with flexible filaments.
• Hotbed can reach its maximum temperature of 110°C in just 5 minutes.
• Normally, it doesn’t require any adhesive and prints can be removed easily from the build platform.
• Resume and print recovery features bring peace of mind as you don’t have to worry about power outages.

Cons of the Ender 3 Pro

• Tricky bed leveling mechanism
• Some people may not appreciate its magnetic print bed
• Not often but may require adhesive for better adhesion

Final Thoughts

Comparing features to printer’s price, Ender 3 Pro is one of the most exceptional 3D printers in the market. Ender 3 Pro is an affordable 3D printer that can be used by users of any level.

Get yourself the Ender 3 Pro (Amazon) from Amazon today.

Sovol manufacturer is aiming to bring some advanced 3D printers in the market that include high-level features on a low budget.

Although the Sovol SV01 is their first 3D printer, it includes almost all the necessary features and performance measures that are required by a 3D printer user. They have plenty of experience in this field through accessories and other parts.

Although this may not be an ideal option for professionals, it could be a great option for beginners who want to try different types of applications on their 3D printers without being limited because of 3D printer capabilities.

Features of the Sovol SV01

• Print Resume Capabilities
• Meanwell Power Supply
• Carbon Coated Removable Glass Plate
• Thermal Runaway Protection.
• Mostly Pre-Assembled
• Filament Runout Detector
• Direct Drive Extruder

Specifications of the Sovol SV01

• Build Volume: 240 x 280 x 300mm
• Printing Speed: 180mm/s
• Print Resolution: 0. 1mm
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 250°C
• Maximum Bed Temperature: 120°C
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
• Extruder: Single
• Connectivity: USB A, MicroSD card
• Bed Levelling: Manual
• Build Area: Open
• Compatible Printing Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU

User Experience of the Sovol SV01

The Sovol SV01 is one of the most sturdy and durable 3D printers that offer consistently high-quality prints even if you are printing at a high speed.

In terms of ease of usage, high quality, and features, Sovol SV01 can beat various 3D printers that are usually considered of much higher quality. Many users have commented just how great the overhang performance is right out the box.

This means you can use fewer supports and still get great quality.

Pros of the Sovol SV01

• Can print at fairly fast printing speeds with great quality (80mm/s)
• Easy to assemble for users
• Direct drive extruder which is great for flexible filament and other types
• Heated build plate allows for printing more filament types
• Dual Z-motors ensures greater stability than single
• Users have mentioned that it comes with a generous 200g spool of filament
• Has great safety features installed such as thermal runaway protection, power off a resume, and a filament end detector
• Great print quality right out the box

Cons of the Sovol SV01

• Doesn’t have auto-leveling with it, but it is compatible
• Cable management is good, but it can sometimes sag into the print area, but you can print a cable chain to solve this issue.
• Has been known to clog if you don’t use PTFE tubing in the feed area
• Poor filament spool positioning
• The fan inside the case has been known to be quite loud

Final Thoughts

Sovol SV01 is a multipurpose 3D printer means that it can serve you whether you are a beginner or an experienced user.

Although printers can offer the best performance with excellent results, you may need to calibrate some settings in the slicer software depending on your print models.

If you are looking to 3D print some great polycarbonate 3D models, Sovol SV01 can definitely help you to get the job done.

Get the Sovol SV01 3D printer for yourself on Amazon today.

What is the Best Polycarbonate & Carbon Fiber Filament to Buy?

If you are looking for the best Polycarbonate & Carbon Fiber filament, I’d recommend getting the PRILINE Carbon Fiber Polycarbonate on Amazon. It has a solid rating of 4.4/5.0 at time of writing with 84% of the reviews being 4 stars and above.

The level of strength this filament has is levels above your standard PLA or PETG. You might think the composition of this filament would make it really hard to print, but it’s not as bad as you think.

Many users are getting great results and printing this material at reasonable temperatures, though you may need a little patience at first to get things just right.

This filament doesn’t warp like ABS filament, and has a pretty low level of shrinkage so you can some proper dimensional accuracy for your 3D prints. I’d recommend getting a PEI build surface to successfully print this filament.

For standard Polycarbonate, I’d recommend getting the Zhuopu Transparent Polycarbonate Filament from Amazon. If you can 3D print ABS on your 3D printer, you’ll be able to get some successful prints with this filament.

Some people who have an Ender 3 mentioned how they could 3D print this material since it goes up to around 260°C, which is just about the right temperature range to get this flowing through the nozzle nicely.

Although the brand isn’t very well known, they have proven themselves by producing high quality spools of filament for 3D printer users out there. You can get some great layer adhesion with this material.

After printing a fairly small 3D print, one user described the resulting object as “unbreakable with my bare hands”, with only a 1.2mm wall thickness, 12% infill, and a 5mm overall part width.

You can get yourself a lovely spool of this Zhuopu Polycarbonate Filament for a great price.

Polycarbonate for 3D printing

Description

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic in honeycomb form widely used as a durable substitute for ordinary glass. In addition, polycarbonate has found use as a material for the manufacture of CDs, contact lenses, protective equipment (for example, bicycle helmets or glasses). The combination of transparency of polycarbonate and high strength (about 250 times higher than ordinary glass) makes it possible to produce even bulletproof glass. nine0005

Another advantage of polycarbonate is its high resistance to high and low temperatures - from -40 to 120°C. In addition, polycarbonate is prone to attenuation when exposed to open flame, contributing to fire safety, and resistant to acids.

Among the disadvantages of polycarbonate, one can single out a rather high hygroscopicity. Thread spools are recommended to be stored in dry places, and preferably vacuum-packed. In addition, polycarbonate is somewhat vulnerable to ultraviolet light, which leads to loss of strength over time, and is vulnerable to attack by petroleum products and organic solvents. nine0009

3D printing application

Polycarbonate printing example

Polycarbonate is rare in FDM printing due to certain technological difficulties, but is rapidly gaining popularity as technology improves.

Polycarbonate requires a fairly high extrusion temperature in excess of 300°C when printing at high speed.

Due to its high hygroscopicity, it may be necessary to dry the consumable immediately before printing. nine0005

To do this, it is recommended to keep the thread for 8-10 hours at a temperature of 70°C.

Otherwise, water vapor may be released during extrusion, clouding of the material and increased shrinkage, which increases the risk of deformation.

Even dry polycarbonate will require the use of a heated worktable up to 90°C-120°C.

It is recommended to use a polyimide film (Kapton) for better adhesion of the first layer to the worktable surface. nine0005

Printing examples with dry and slightly damp polycarbonate

Finding the right balance of extrusion temperature and print speed will be required to maintain transparency and avoid nozzle clogging and cracking.

Printing at 30mm/s will require heat up to approximately 265˚C, 285˚C at 60mm/s, 300˚C at 80mm/s and over 305˚C at 120mm/s. The glass transition temperature of polycarbonate is about 150˚C.

Polycarbonate threads are available in standard diameters of 1.75mm and 3mm. nine0009

Polycarbonate Safety

Polycarbonate itself is safe, but the material typically uses BPA as the main raw material. Bisphenol A, in turn, is very toxic even in small volumes, up to the excitation of oncological diseases. Unfortunately, polycarbonates often contain residual Bisphenol A (albeit in extremely small amounts), which is released when heated. Accordingly, the use of polycarbonate products for storing hot food or drinks is not recommended. Limited bans on the use of polycarbonate in food packaging have already been introduced in Canada and the EU, and are being considered in the US. We recommend that you print in a well-ventilated area. nine0005

Go to the main page of the Encyclopedia of 3D Printing

Overview of high-temperature FDM plastics for industrial 3D printing / Sudo Null IT News and materials in stock.

Plastics with outstanding properties are very useful in space. No, it’s not yet possible to print a rocket engine out of plastic, the heat resistance is not even close to the same, but it is ideal for various parts around. An example is Stratasys and the "climate control" of Atlas V rockets. 16 printed parts instead of 140 metal parts - faster, lighter, cheaper. And this is not a theoretical project, it has already flown into space.

Another example is aviation. The flight altitude is lower, but the application is more massive. Here, too, there is a reason to reduce the mass of parts, switch to plastic where possible. It is used in the aircraft industry and direct metal printing, when it comes to engine components or fuselage frame parts, but less loaded structural elements, such as cabin ventilation and interior elements, are best made from plastic. This direction is being developed, for example, by Airbus. nine0005

We descend from heaven to earth: here the mass is no longer so critical, other properties of engineering plastics are of interest. Resistance to aggressive chemicals and elevated temperatures, the ability to create structures inaccessible to classical methods. At the same time - a lower price, in comparison with metal printing. Printed products are used in medicine, oil and gas industry, chemical industry. As an example, a mixing block with a complex channel structure, made for illustration in a section. nine0005

Difference from conventional plastics

Why not launch PLA into space and make ABS air vents in aircraft cabins? A number of requirements are applied to engineering plastics related to resistance to high and low temperatures, fire resistance, mechanical strength. Usually all at once. So, it is undesirable to launch PLA “floating” when interacting with the environment or perfectly burning ABS into the sky.

Now - to what, in fact, plastics are used in industrial printing using FDM / FFF technology. nine0005

Polycarbonate filaments

Polycarbonate is a common industrial plastic with high impact resistance and transparency, also produced for the needs of FDM printing. The material holds temperature better than ABS, is resistant to acids, but is sensitive to UV radiation and is destroyed by oil products.

Clear polycarbonate, PC

The maximum operating temperature for polycarbonate products is 130 °C. Polycarbonate is biologically inert, products made from it can withstand sterilization, which makes it possible to print packaging and auxiliary equipment for medicine. nine0005

• Stratasys PC, PC-ISO for Fortus printers. The first is general purpose, the second is certified for biocompatibility, for medical use.
• Intamsys PC;
• Esun ePC;
• SEM PC;
• PrintProduct PC;

ABS/PC

Polycarbonate/ABS alloy combines the sanding and painting capabilities of ABS with higher impact resistance and operating temperature. Retains strength at low temperatures down to -50 °C. Unlike pure PC, it is better applicable in cases where it is necessary to eliminate the layered structure of the part by grinding or sandblasting. Application: production of housings and elements of controls for piece and small-scale production, replacement of mass-produced plastic parts in equipment, parts for which have ceased to be produced. nine0005

• Stratasys PC/ABS;
• Roboze PC-ABS;
• SEM ABS/PC;
• BestFilament ABS/PC.

Polyamide based filaments

Polyamides are used in the production of synthetic fibers, a popular material for printing by selective laser sintering (SLS). For printing using FDM / FFF technology, polyamide-6 (kapron), polyamide-66 (nylon) and polyamide-12 are mainly used. Common features of polyamide-based filaments include chemical inertness and anti-friction properties. Polyamide-12 is more flexible and resilient than PA6 and PA66. Operating temperature approx. 100 °C, some modifications up to 120.

First of all, gears are printed from polyamide. The best material for this purpose, which can be worked with on a regular 3D printer with a closed chamber. Abrasion resistance allows you to make rods, cams, sliding bushings. In the line of many manufacturers there are composite filaments based on polyamide, with even greater mechanical strength.

• Stratasys Nylon 6, Nylon 12, Nylon 12CF. The latter is filled with carbon fiber.
• Intamsys Nylon, PA6. nine0084
• Taulman Nylon 618, Nylon 645 based on PA66 and PA6 respectively. Nylon 680 is approved for use in the food industry. Alloy 910 is a low shrinkage polyamide alloy.
• PrintProduct Nylon, Nylon Mod, Nylon Strong;
• REC Friction;
• BestFilament BFNylon.

Moving on to the fun part

You can work with polycarbonate or polyamide on a regular 3D printer. With the filaments described below, it is more difficult, they require other extruders and maintaining the temperature in the working chamber, that is, you need special equipment for printing with high-temperature plastics. There are exceptions - for example, NASA, for the sake of experiment, upgraded the Lulzbot TAZ popular in the USA to work with high-temperature filaments. nine0005

Polyetheretherketone, PEEK

The operating temperature of PEEK products reaches 250 ° C, short-term heating up to 300 is possible - indicators for reinforced filaments. PEEK has two disadvantages: high price and moderate impact resistance. The rest is pluses. The plastic is self-extinguishing, heat-resistant, chemically inert. Medical equipment and implants are produced from PEEK, abrasion resistance makes it possible to print parts of mechanisms from it.

• Intamsys PEEK; nine0084
• Apium PEEK;
• Roboze PEEK, Carbon PEEK. The second is reinforced with carbon fiber.

Polyetherimide, PEI

He is Ultem. A family of plastics developed by SABIC. The characteristics of PEI are more modest than those of PEEK, but the cost is noticeably lower. Ultem 1010 and 9085 are Stratasys' primary materials for printing functional parts. PEI is in demand in the aerospace industry - the mass is much less compared to aluminum alloys. Operating temperatures of products, depending on the modification of the material, reach 217 ° C according to the manufacturer and 213 - according to the results of tests by Stratasys. nine0005

The advantages of PEI are the same as those of PEEK - chemical and temperature resistance, mechanical strength. It is this material that Stratasys is promoting as a partial replacement for metal in the aerospace industry, for drones, the manufacture of tooling for molding, the rapid printing of functional parts in pilot production.

The cooling system components for the Atlas V rocket and plastic parts for the Airbus jetliners shown as an example at the beginning of the review are made of Ultem 9085.

• Stratasys Ultem 1010 and 9085, for Fortus 450mc and 900mc printers.
• Intamsys Ultem 1010 and 9085;
• Roboze Ultem AM9085F;
• Apium PEI 9085.

Polyphenylsulfone, PPSF/PPSU

Another material that combines in its properties temperature resistance, mechanical strength and resistance to chemical attack. Stratasys PPSF is certified for aerospace and medical applications. Positioned as a raw material for the production of auxiliary medical devices, it can be sterilized in steam autoclaves. It is used in the production of parts for laboratory installations in the chemical industry. nine0005

• Stratasys PPSF;
• 3DXTech Firewire PPSU.

Polysulfone, PSU

Less common than PPSU, similar physical characteristics, chemically inert, self-extinguishing. 175°C operating temperature, up to 33% cheaper than PPSU.

• 3DXTech Firewire PSU

Comparison of filament characteristics

* calcination for 2 hours at 140 °C. nine0009 ** Apium PEEK 450 natural, impact test results not available with similar methods. Temperature resistance is specified for unfilled PEEK.

Data shown for Stratasys filaments, excluding PEEK. If a range of values ​​is indicated, then the tests were carried out along and across the layers of the part.

About composite filaments

Most FDM printing materials have composite versions. If we talk about PLA, then metal or wood powders are added to it to change the aesthetic properties. Engineering filaments are reinforced with carbon fiber to increase the rigidity of the part. The influence of such additives on the properties of plastic depends not only on their quantity, but also on the size of the fibers. If a fine powder can be considered a decorative additive, then the fibers already significantly change the characteristics of the plastic. By itself, the word Carbon in the name of the material does not yet mean outstanding properties, you need to look at the test results. For example: Stratasys Nylon12CF has almost twice the tensile strength, when tested along the layers, than Nylon12. nine0005

Exotic variant - implementation of continuous reinforcement from Markforged. The company offers a reinforcing filament for co-FDM printing with other plastics.

Other specific properties

Engineering plastics are not only resistance to high temperatures and mechanical strength. For housings or boxes for storing electronic devices, and in environments where flammable volatile liquids are used, materials with antistatic properties are required. In the Stratasys line, this is, for example, ABS-ESD7. nine0005

• Stratasys ABS-ESD7;
• Roboze ABS-ESD

Conventional ABS does not have UV resistance, which limits its outdoor use without a protective coating. As an alternative, ASA is offered, which has characteristics similar to ABS, except for the UV resistance.

• REC Eternal;
• SEM ASA;
• BestFilament A.S.A.

Original alternative

Plastic can replace metal in many areas, as it is superior in lightness, thermal and electrical insulation, resistance to reagents. But printouts from the best FDM filaments do not reach the physical indicators of metal products.

Chemical giant BASF offers the Ultrafuse 316LX FDM filament, with a stainless steel content of 80%. The part is printed on an FDM printer and then placed in an oven where the binder plastic is burned off and the metal is sintered. The part obtained in this way is much cheaper than the one made by direct metal printing. With an FDM printer and a suitable oven, no new equipment is needed at all. nine0005

Note that a similar solution is offered by the Virtual Foundry company - its Filamet, with bronze or copper powder, is baked in a similar way. The choice of metal hints at decorative rather than engineering applications.

AIM3D has its own implementation of this principle - the ExAM 255 printer does not work with filament, but with granules. This allows the use of raw materials for FDM printing, which are usually used in MIM installations, Metal Injection Molding. For sintering the part, the company offers an ExSO 9 furnace0. It is also possible to print with plastic granules, which is usually cheaper than using traditional filament.

Special machinery for engineering plastics

To recap.

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