FDM – Polycarbonate (PC)
Polycarbonate (PC) is a high-performance thermoplastic material used in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing. Known for its strength, toughness, and impact resistance, Polycarbonate is widely used in applications that require parts to withstand high mechanical stress, temperature variations, and environmental conditions. It is a versatile material suitable for industrial, engineering, and functional prototypes.
Key Material Facts:
- Can be painted and plated
- Easy to clean
- Bonds well with other Materials
- Durable and Weather Resistant
- Stability
- Material can be Vapor Smoothed
Common Applications:
- Functional Prototypes: Polycarbonate is often used in 3D printing to create functional prototypes that must endure mechanical stress and simulate the performance of final products.
- End-Use Parts: Due to its durability and heat resistance, PC is suitable for producing final parts such as housings, enclosures, and mechanical components in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics.
- Automotive: Used to create parts like dashboard components, connectors, and structural elements that require both toughness and the ability to withstand heat.
- Aerospace: In aerospace, polycarbonate is used for creating lightweight, durable parts, such as interior components, brackets, and housings that need to maintain structural integrity in extreme conditions.
- Electrical Components: The material’s flame retardancy and electrical insulation properties make it suitable for producing electrical components such as connectors, switches, and protective housings.
Material Reference Data:
- For more information on how the FDM printing process works please check out this page.
- For FDM part design trick and tips check out this page.
- Material manufacturers website
FDM – Polycarbonate: Technical Specifications
Mechanical Properties
| Property Description | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 40 MPa |
| Tensile Elongation | 4.8% |
| Flexural Strength | 89 MPa |
| Impact Strength (Unnotched) | 877 J/m |
| Heat Deflection (HDT) @ 66 psi, 0.125” | 138 °C |
| Volume Resistivity | 6.0×1013 – 2.0×1014 ohm-cm |
| Dissipation Factor | .0005 – .0006 |
FDM – Polycarbonate: Part Gallery
