The MakerBot Method line is an open-source platform that brings a world of new options for prototypes right to your desktop. Recently, MakerBot extended the capabilities for their Method platform and launched the Carbon Fiber Edition, which consists of a composite carbon fiber extruder that further expands the printers' production range so that it can create stronger and lighter parts. To expand their material library and enhanced the Method platform's capabilities, MakerBot just launched the new Nylon 12 Carbon Fiber and several Polycarbonate materials. Let's take a look at what is now possible with these new materials.
New Carbon Fiber Material
- Nylon 12 Carbon Fiber: This new material provides superior moisture resistance with the easiest carbon fiber composite 3D printing experience. This combination enables more consistent results with a wider range of possible environments while still maintaining an impressive tensile strength at 66 MPA. From simple tools to complex end-use parts, Nylon 12 Carbon Fiber brings powerful new options.
Printer: MakerBot Method, MakerBot Method X
New LABS Materials
The Method is now an open platform which means there are more material options that are not just made exclusively by MakerBot. An experimental extruder allows engineers to switch out materials that are pre-approved. MakerBot added three new materials by PolyMaker to their LABS line up that are exclusive to the MakerBot Method X due to the required heat temperatures.
- Polymaker PC-PBT: This impressive new addition to the polycarbonate material options for the Method X is sure to bring added chemical and subzero protection to PBT. This is specifically tailored to applications that come in contact with low temperatures and hydrocarbons.
Printer: MakerBot Method X - PolyMax PC-FR: Typical applications that require flame retardant parts such as electronic and motor mounts need specialized materials to ensure safety. This new LABS material offers V0 flame retardant performance (UL94) that extends the possibilities of production.
Printer: MakerBot Method X - PolyLite PC: Prepare to see the unseen with this unique addition to the LABS material line-up. This new transparent material is perfect for applications similar to light housing and diffusers.
Printer: MakerBot Method X
MakerBot Method Options
The two options available for the MakerBot Method Carbon Fiber Edition are well-known for their carefully controlled environments that lead to repeatable prints that previously were only possible with industrial 3D printers. These two printers are the same in size, but vary greatly when it comes to chamber temperatures and materials.
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METHOD CF | METHOD X CF |
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Controlled Chamber Temperature: 60oC MakerBot Standard materials include:
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Controlled Chamber Temperature: 110oC MakerBot Standard materials include:
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Controlled Chamber Temperature: 60oC Includes Carbon
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Controlled Chamber Temperature: 110oC Includes Carbon
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MakerBot Method Extruders
There are two extruders that allow these new materials to be used in the Method or Method X Carbon Fiber Edition, the LABS extruder and carbon fiber extruders.
LABS Extruder: This extruder is designed to house pre-approved third-party materials to take advantage of the open-source platform. This extruder can be utilized on both the Method and Method X 3D printers.
Carbon Fiber Extruder: There are three extruders that are compatible with the new Nylon 12 Carbon Fiber material, Material 1C and Support Extruder 2/2XA. These extruders allow the Method and Method X to utilize carbon fiber materials with ease.
Learn more about the capabilities of the MakerBot Method X and get specific details on its impressive range of applications and compact desktop size.
