FDM · Filaments · Engineering
PC filament
For parts that need high temperature and impact resistance.
What is PC?
Polycarbonate is a durable, hard and thermally stable plastic. ePC is a 3D-printable form of engineering polycarbonate, preferred for mechanical parts, functional prototypes and industrial applications.
Glass fiber reinforced versions offer even higher strength and stiffness.
- Heat resistant
- High strength
- Transparent
- Flame retardant
Impact and heat
A strong engineering plastic for demanding mechanical parts with high impact strength and heat resistance.
Elongation at break
With elongation above 150%, it bends before breaking; safe against sudden fracture.
Transparency
The clear option suits light diffusers, protective covers and viewing windows.
Printing note
Requires high temperatures and an enclosure; our engineers set the right parameters.
Technical data
Manufacturer datasheet values.
| Density | 1.12 g/cm³ |
|---|---|
| Heat deflection temperature (0.45 MPa) | 80 °C |
| Melt flow index (g/10 min) | 19.5 (300 °C / 1.2 kg) |
| Tensile strength | 54.88 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 150% |
| Flexural strength | 63.41 MPa |
| Flexural modulus | 1073 MPa |
| Izod impact strength | 13.2 kJ/m² |
| Glass transition temperature (Tg) | ≈ 145 °C (typical, pure PC) |
Print settings
Recommended starting ranges; fine-tuning is needed for each machine.
| Nozzle temperature | 240 – 270 °C (recommended 260 °C) |
|---|---|
| Bed temperature | 80 – 120 °C |
| Fan | 0% |
| Print speed | 20 – 50 mm/s |
Design guidelines for PC
General guidelines for FDM technology. All design guidelines
- Production accuracy at TAݱ0.5% (lower limit ±0.5 mm)
- Minimum wall thickness0.8 mm (supported)
- Unsupported wall1.2 mm
- Smallest detail0.4 mm
- Clearance for moving parts0.4 mm (normal fit)
- Text and logosEmbossed ≥ 0.6 mm, engraved ≥ 0.8 mm
- Minimum hole diameterØ 2 mm
- Unsupported overhang angle≥ 45° from horizontal; flatter surfaces need support
Applications
- Mechanical parts
- Functional prototypes
- Protective enclosures
- Industrial applications
Advantages
- Very high impact strength
- High elongation: safe against sudden fracture
- Heat resistant; transparent option
Limitations
- Requires high temperatures and an enclosure
- Absorbs moisture; must be dried
- Sensitive to some solvents
Comparison
PC and alternatives
| Property | PC | PC-ABS | ABS | ULTEM™ 9085 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density | 1.12 g/cm³ | 1.15 g/cm³ | 1.06 g/cm³ | 1.34 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength | 55 MPa | 45 MPa | 40 MPa | 69 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 150 % | 15 % | 30 % | 6 % |
| Modulus (stiffness) | 1.07 GPa | 2.1 GPa | 1.2 GPa | 2.2 GPa |
| Heat deflection (0.45 MPa) | 80 °C | 105 °C | 73 °C | 178 °C |
Values are averages of typical ranges; see each material page for details.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions about PC
What is PC?
Polycarbonate is a durable, hard and thermally stable plastic. ePC is a 3D-printable form of engineering polycarbonate, preferred for mechanical parts, functional prototypes and industrial applications.
Is PC heat resistant?
The heat deflection temperature (0.45 MPa) of PC is about 80 °C. This is moderate; enough for everyday use and warm environments.
Can PC be used outdoors?
It usually performs well in short and medium-term outdoor use; for parts exposed to direct sunlight for long periods, UV-resistant materials such as ASA are a better fit.
Which parts are made with PC?
PC is typically used in applications such as mechanical parts, functional prototypes, protective enclosures, industrial applications.
Which material can be used instead of PC?
Depending on the application, PC-ABS, ABS, ULTEM™ 9085 can be alternatives. You can see the differences in the comparison tables on the material pages.
Does TAİ Robotik produce with PC?
Yes. We produce with PC using FDM technology. Upload your file to get a quote.
Let's produce with PC
Upload your file and we will prepare your quotation for the material, color and quantity.