Eastman Chemical Company is showcasing its new carbon fibre polymer for 3D printing to NPE2015.
Eastman
Eastman Amphora was developed by specialty chemical company in partnership with Helian Polymers, a leader in filament 3D manufacturing, who joined forces with Eastman in 2014 to launch ColorFabb XT-Copolyester. Now, the companies are launching the new carbon fibre filament, helping a Kickstarter campaign to revolutionise the industry.
3D printing with functional filaments
The collaboration between Eastman and Helian, owner of ColorFabb, began in 2013 with the goal of developing a solution for functional 3D products printed using extrusion-based 3D printing. The companies tested materials and formulations using their expertise in high-performance polymers and 3D printing filaments. Eastman’s history with a broad portfolio of solutions and technical expertise complemented Helian’s innovative work with 3D printers and filaments. The resulting ColorFabb XT-Copolyester made with Eastman Amphora 3D polymer focuses on functionality and features strength, workability, processing, aesthetics and low odour for 3D printed products.
Now, ColorFabb has unveiled a copolyester-based carbon fibre composite material, XT-CF20, also made with Eastman Amphora 3D polymer. The company notes the new material’s high melt strength and viscosity, good dimensional accuracy and stability, low printing odour and stiffness without being brittle. According to ColorFabb, XT-CF20’s heat resistance, dimensional stability and stiffness make it ideal for use in the fabrication of drones, aerospace and automotive parts and prototyping.
