3D printing technology has come a long way that its prints can conduct electricity and power up products that have never been made possible before. Items such as shirts, laptop trackpads and more can now be faster and more affordable to create with 3D printing. How is it possible for 3D printing technology to create these gadgets? Read below to find out about conductive filaments.
What is a Conductive Filament?
A conductive filament is a 3D printing material that creates anti-static, dissipation, and electric-current prints. It is usually made with a 3D printing plastic base of PLA or ABS combined with carbon. Carbon is a material that makes it possible to conduct electricity due to its graphitised atomic structure. It means that its atoms have a “honeycomb lattice” arrangement that allows it to transmit currents through its electrons.
This structure also guarantees the material’s rigidity and strength.
Applications for Conductive Filaments
Conductive filaments are perfect for creating gadgets and components that will have electricity flow through them. While copper and iron are more popular conductors, conductive filaments are metal-free, which means that the latter conduct electricity much slower than the former. Therefore, conductive filaments are typically used for smaller gadgets, such as wearable technology, electromagnetic and radio shields, and touch sensors.
3D Printing Best Practices for Conductive Filaments
Since it is partly made of carbon fibre, it has the same issues as carbon fibre filaments. Here are life hacks to 3D printing successfully with conductive filaments.
- It is known to be brittle, so you have to be extra careful during printing.
- It is also abrasive against nozzles, so expect your nozzle to be worn down quickly with frequent use of this filament. The use of a wide nozzle beyond 4mm is recommended.
- Not all conductive filaments have the same temperature settings since they have different plastic bases. They usually follow the specifications of whatever the plastic base is.
- Conductive filaments are prone to warping and cracking. Make sure to use a heated print bed during printing to keep the temperature consistent.
Best Conductive Filament on the Market
X3D Pro ABS Conductive Filament
Extruder Temperature: 210-250 ℃
Bed Temperature: 50°C
The X3D Pro ABS Conductive Filament is an extra strong and high-impact resistant material that produces smooth prints consistently. It is RoHS-compliant and has no harmful additives. It even has a money-back guarantee.
Order the Best Conductive Filament on the Market Today!
It is now possible to create electronic gadgets with just 3D printers. If you’re a budding inventor or just a hobbyist, create or invent your own gadgets with conductive filaments. If you want to know more about what you can do with conductive filaments or how to print with them, contact us at x3d@x3d.com.au.