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PLA + CF filament

Stiff, dimensionally stable PLA with carbon fibre and a matte, technical look.

PLA CF is PLA reinforced with short carbon fibres. It prints almost as easily as regular PLA, but is stiffer, more dimensionally stable and gets a matte, technical surface on which layer lines barely show. Fiberlogy PLA + CF contains 10% carbon fibre. A good choice for frames, brackets, jigs and functional prototypes. Below the products you can read when to choose PLA CF and what to look out for when printing. Read more…

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What is PLA CF?

PLA CF (also PLA-CF or carbon PLA) is PLA with short carbon fibres in it. Fiberlogy PLA + CF contains 10% carbon fibre. The fibres make the material stiffer and reduce shrinkage and warping, so parts stay true to size. The surface becomes a matte, even black, with layer lines that are almost invisible. According to Fiberlogy it is also suitable for high-speed printing and more heat-resistant than regular PLA.

PLA CF or another filament?

FilamentChoose it for
Standard PLAMost printing, in many colours. More flexible and cheaper than PLA CF.
PLA CFStiff, dimensionally stable parts with a clean, matte look, as easy to print as PLA.
PETG + CFStiff parts that also need to be tough and more resistant to heat and moisture.
Nylon + CF / GFHeavily loaded technical parts. Stronger, but harder to print.

Printing PLA CF: what to look out for

  • Nozzle: carbon fibre wears a brass nozzle quickly. Use a hardened steel nozzle of 0.4 mm or larger.
  • Temperature: use the nozzle and bed temperatures stated on the spool label.
  • Cooling: as with PLA, plenty of cooling.
  • Enclosure: not needed.
  • Diameter: 1.75 mm, with a diameter tolerance of ± 0.02 mm and a roundness tolerance of 0.01 mm.

This spool fits in the Bambu Lab AMS. Something going wrong? Our article on solving 3D printing problems covers the most common problems and how to fix them.

Pros and cons of PLA CF

Pros

  • Stiffer than regular PLA
  • Little shrinkage and warping, so dimensionally stable
  • Matte surface on which layer lines barely show
  • Prints almost as easily as PLA, without an enclosure

Cons

  • Requires a hardened nozzle
  • A stiff material flexes less and can break sooner on impact; for impact-resistant parts choose PLA Impact
  • It is still PLA: for hot places or outdoors choose PETG + CF or ASA

Uses of PLA CF

  • Frames and structures: drone and RC parts, frames and supports.
  • Workshop: jigs, drill guides and assembly aids that need to be dimensionally accurate.
  • Brackets and holders: for cameras, tools and electronics.
  • Prototypes: functional models with a professional, matte finish.

You will find more types of PLA in our PLA filament.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is the difference between PLA CF and regular PLA?

    PLA CF contains short carbon fibres. This makes it stiffer, reduces shrinkage and gives it a matte surface. Regular PLA is a little more flexible, comes in many more colours and prints without a hardened nozzle.

  • Do I need a hardened nozzle for PLA CF?

    Yes. Carbon fibre acts as an abrasive and wears out a brass nozzle in a short time. A hardened steel nozzle lasts much longer. Choose 0.4 mm or larger so the fibres do not clog the nozzle.

  • Is PLA CF stronger than PETG?

    PLA CF is stiffer: it bends less under load. PETG is tougher and more resistant to heat and moisture. If you want both, choose PETG + CF.

  • Can I use PLA CF outdoors?

    Preferably not for parts that stand in the sun or heat. According to Fiberlogy, PLA CF is more heat-resistant than regular PLA, but it is still PLA. For outdoor use choose PETG + CF or ASA.

  • Do I need to dry PLA CF?

    Store PLA CF dry, like any other filament. If you hear crackling or see a rough surface and stringing, dry it in a filament dryer. Store spools sealed with silica gel beads.