Firewire PC-ABS

In certain advanced applications excellent mechanical properties of a plastic are not enough and the demanding environment requires a polymer with specialistic properties such as flame retardance, a property very desired in many industries, especially in aerospace. The best way to obtain such a mix of properties is by blending different polymers. The 3DXTech Firewire flame retardant self extinguishing PC-ABS filament is an example of such blend.

The Firewire PC-ABS filament is made of a PC (polycarbonate) and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) alloy with UL94 V-0 ratings. Its composition is 60 % PC, 20 % ABS and 20 % BPADP, a flame retardant additive. This blend is superior to PC or ABS alone, as it combines the high heat resistance and toughness of PC with the ductility and printability of ABS, and gives the Firewire PC-ABS excellent strength and thermal resistance (functional up to 110°C), improved durability, and sturdiness. The Firewire PC-ABS by 3DXTech is easier to print than most industrial-grade materials as its shrinkage is almost imperceptible thanks to its amorphous structure. The use of a heated chamber with this filament will ensure no warping occurs and layer adhesion is optimal. Furthermore, the 3DXTech Firewire PC-ABS filament can be post processed for aesthetic applications. PC-ABS can be chromed (and painted), which will give it a surface finish similar to chromed metal.

A PC-ABS blend, apart from combining the best of the properties of PC and ABS, is often a more cost-effective alternative to PC alone. That together with the excellent thermomechanical properties, makes the PC-ABS one of the most widely used engineering thermoplastics. The strength, stiffness, heat resistance, impact resistance (even at low temperatures), and dimensional stability make PC-ABS ideal for 3D printing of functional prototypes and production parts such as electrical housings, connectors, or any part that has to operate in temperatures of up to 110 ºC.