Stratasys Fortus 380mc CFE – an industrial 3D printer able to print with carbon fiber composites

Stratasys announced the start of shipments to the customers of the first Fortus 380mc Carbon Fiber Edition (CFE) 3D printers – machines of industrial class printing details from thermoplastics in FDM technology. Unlike other Fortus models, this one uses only two materials at work – a special composite of Nylon 12 and carbon fiber as well as ASA – a material with properties similar to ABS, highly resistant to UV radiation. The machine costs $70,000 and is nearly three times cheaper than other Fortus models allowing the use of a much wider range of filaments.

Fortus 380mc CFE is Stratasys’ answer to the growing demand of customers for machines capable of printing extremely durable details. The composite of nylon and carbon fiber called Nylon 12CF was created by the manufacturer for the needs of the automotive and aviation industry, and is intended for printing both high-quality prototypes and final elements. According to Stratasys’ assurances, the material is characterized by high stiffness and strength, low shrinkage during printing, and the details made from it are lighter in comparison to those printed from other materials.

3D printer technical specification:

• technology: FDM
• dimensions of the machine: 129.5 x 90.2 x 198.4 cm
• working area: 35.5 x 30.5 x 30.5 cm
• weight: 601 kg
• 3D printing materials: 12CF Nylon, ASA
• height of the printed layer:
  • Nylon 12CF: 0.254 mm
  • ASA: 0.127 mm – 0.330 mm
• heated and closed working chamber
• price: $ 70,000.

Source: www.stratasys.com