Nylon Carbon Fibre Composite
Nylon reinforced with chopped carbon fibres for maximum stiffness-to-weight ratio in polymer AM. Used for lightweight structural parts, end-of-arm tooling, and ESD-safe applications in electronics manufacturing.
About Nylon Carbon Fibre Composite
Carbon fibre-reinforced nylon (typically PA12-CF or PA11-CF) offers the highest stiffness of any standard polymer AM material, with elastic modulus values of 5,000–9,000 MPa depending on fibre content and process. The carbon content (10–20% chopped fibres) also imparts electrical conductivity, making parts inherently ESD-safe.
In SLS, carbon fibre composites produce parts with near-isotropic properties. In FDM (e.g., Markforged continuous fibre), oriented carbon fibres can deliver directional stiffness approaching aluminium in specific configurations.
Typical Applications
- End-of-arm robotic tooling
- Lightweight structural jigs and fixtures
- ESD-safe trays and enclosures
- Drone and UAV airframes
- Replacement for machined aluminium brackets
Engineering Considerations
- Very brittle — avoid impact loading or snap-fit designs
- Carbon fibres are abrasive — significantly increases nozzle/laser wear
- Anisotropy in FDM is extreme — SLS is more isotropic
- Surface finish is rough and matte — limited cosmetic finishing options