3D Printing with Carbon Fiber

There was a time in the not-so-distant past that the idea of a 3D printer was revolutionary. Using a computer program and a “printer” of various sizes and capabilities to make actual, usable products? New and exciting, but was the idea practical?

There was also a time, in a century now passed, that the idea of a product that had the strength of steel but weighed 42% less with 5 times less density was just a creative idea thought up by Sir Joseph Wilson Swan to use in an incandescent light bulb.

But today, the possibilities for the use of carbon fiber are limitless. When 3D printing is coupled with carbon fiber, the possibilities grow exponentially from limitless to infinity and beyond. When these two technologies merge, the ability to create—to print—any product or part becomes reality.

Carbon fiber is rarely used alone. Bike frames, aircraft parts, auto parts, and propeller blades are all made from carbon fiber composites. In recent years, traditional manufacturers are moving forward with new ways to use carbon fiber composites, and more and more 3D printing companies are beginning to offer carbon fiber reinforced materials. With a projected value of $1.7 billion by 2030, it is clear that the 3D printing world is embracing all composite printing in manufacturing. The 3D printing process uses two sources of carbon fiber: carbon fiber reinforced filaments and continuous carbon fiber reinforcement. Strength, stiffness, heat, resistance and durability can all be increased with 3D printed carbon fiber parts and other composite fibers. 3D printers are now being used in traditional manufacturing to make parts and components that are as strong and more durable than their aluminum counterparts.

As with the possibilities in the merging of 3D printing and carbon fiber composites, this is just the tip of the iceberg on how these two “new” technologies can enhance and improve manufacturing processes around the world. As both technologies grow and new uses for both products are found, the future looks promising as reduced costs mirror increased usage.

For more information about carbon fiber products, contact Carbon Fiber Support.