Stratasys recently launched a new carbon fiber composite material called ABS-CF10, made specifically for their F123 Series 3D printers, like the F170, F270, and F370. These printers have already made it easier for engineers and designers to dive into advanced prototyping, thanks to how simple they are to use, how consistent the results are, and the high-quality parts they produce.
1. New Print Mode for ABS-CF10
The Visual Print mode for ABS-CF10 on Stratasys F123 Series printers is all about balancing strength and surface quality. By using a fine 5-slice (0.005”) layer height, this new print mode delivers a smoother surface finish, without compromising on the material’s performance.
2. What's This Solving?
If you’re after strength and a polished look, ABS-CF10 is your go-to material. With improved surface quality, there’s no need for extra post-processing steps like sanding or vapor smoothing, saving you time and effort. However, if fine details and aesthetics are your priority, you might want to consider DLP or SLA technologies for sharper visual results.
3. How Does It Work?
The secret behind this new print mode is the ultra-fine 0.005″ layer height. This feature is enabled through either Insight or GrabCAD: Here’s how it compares to standard FDM printing:
- Most FDM prints use layer heights between 0.007″ and 0.013″ for faster prints, but that often means more visible layer lines. The 0.005″ layer height in Visual Print smooths those out significantly, making the surface look much cleaner.
- The geometry of the part also plays a role in how noticeable those layer lines are. For example, vertical or gently sloped surfaces tend to show them more, while sharp angles or curves tend to hide them better.
- fine resolution of Visual Print helps minimize the visibility of layer lines on all types of geometries.
You can enable this feature through both Insight and GrabCAD Print software, but it’s important to keep in mind that it requires the T14H hardened print head. It’s supported on the F170, F190CR, F370, and F370CR printers.
4. Quick Overview of The Material
ABS-CF10 is special thanks to its carbon fiber reinforcement. This gives it mechanical properties way beyond what you’d get from standard ABS. It has a great strength-to-weight ratio and is stiffer, which makes it perfect for demanding applications.
ABS-CF10 works with soluble supports, so you can print complex geometries without any hassle. Whether you’re making functional prototypes or production parts, this Carbon Fiber Visual Print option lets you create tough, high-performance components that look polished right off the build tray.
5. How Does It Compare?
If you’re wondering how ABS-CF10 stacks up against regular ABS, here’s a quick comparison:
- It has 10% chopped carbon fiber by weight, giving it a serious strength boost.
- Works with the same QSR (Quick Support Release) soluble support, allowing for more complex designs.
- It’s over 50% stiffer and 15% stronger than regular, non-reinforced ABS.
6. Explore ABS-CF10 Case Studies
This new print mode provides the perfect balance of strength and surface quality you need. It’s exclusive to ABS-CF10 on the F123 Series 3D printers, and the results are clear with exceptional quality right off the build tray.
Want to see how companies are leveraging this new capability? Explore the case studies below.
