Benefits of carbon fiber reinforced polymer
A carbon fiber reinforced polymer is an advanced composite material which consists of two parts: a matrix and a fiber reinforcement. In this case, the reinforcement is carbon fiber, intended as primary structural component. Fiber can be continuous or short.
The expression can be shorten in CFRP; “P” can stand for “plastic” also, not only for “polymer”.
The carbon fiber reinforced polymer has many advantages as lightweight. It is also very strong and stiff thanks to the carbon fiber reinforcement whereas the polymer gives protection and grasp on the fiber along with toughness.
CFRPs are commonly used in those sectors that require stiffness and a high strength-to-weight ratio, for example aerospace, automotive, civil engineering.
In view of such amazing characteristics, the greatest disadvantage is cost which still remains high. Fortunately the new, continuing technological advancements in manufacturing allow for more cost-effective products.
The use with 3D printing technology
According to the latest IDTechEX report, recent years have seen the growth of 3D printing processes in terms of diversity and complexity, so has the variety of materials compatible. The portfolio of materials for 3D printing is expanding, and unique and high-performance materials enter the market annually alongside increased adoption of additive manufacturing.
The process is occurring especially amongst end-users, who begin to fully understand the value-add that 3D printing brings to their supply chain.
In this scenario – driven by the demand of higher quality products, greater choice, flexibility – one of the most popular performance materials is carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite, thanks to its undeniable strength and stiffness: these characteristics when combined with the capabilities of professional 3D printing provide unrivalled manufacturing solutions.
The arrival of Windform carbon filled composite materials
For many years CRP Technology has been at the forefront in the research, development and creation of carbon fiber reinforced composite materials to be used with professional 3D printing process.
In 2005 the company launched on the market Windform XT, polyamide based composite material carbon fiber filled, the first of this kind in the world, with unique mechanical and thermal properties enhanced by selective laser sintering (SLS) as manufacturing technology.
In 2015 Windform XT was replaced by Windform XT 2.0, with improvements in mechanical properties including +8% increase in tensile strength, +22% in tensile modulus, and a +46% increase in elongation at break.
Nowadays the Windform range of materials for additive manufacturing comprises many composites which are carbon fiber filled, each with specific high performance characteristics: Windform SP, Windform RS, Windform FR1, the first UL94 V-0 carbon-filled flame retardant laser sintering material ever.
These Windform materials are widely used in the most innovative industry sectors for the manufacturing of functional, strong, stiff and lightweight components and applications.
