Filament
Polycarbonate
Extremely strong, heat-resistant engineering filament for demanding functional parts.
Polycarbonate (PC) is one of the strongest FDM filaments — high impact strength, stiffness and heat resistance up to ~110 °C. Used for tooling, jigs, fixtures and end-use parts that must survive real-world abuse. Requires a high-temp hotend and enclosure.
Ratings
Ease1/5
Strength5/5
Flexibility2/5
Heat res.5/5
Detail3/5
UV res.3/5
Print settings
- Nozzle temp
- 270–310 °C
- Bed temp
- 100–120 °C
- Enclosure
- Required
- Hardened nozzle
- Yes
- Drying needed
- Yes
- Heat deflection temp
- 110 °C
Print tips
Enclosure required (ideally heated chamber). 270–310 °C nozzle, 100–120 °C bed. Hardened nozzle recommended. Dry before printing.
Safety & food contact
Low odor; high chamber temps — use a printer rated for PC.
Food contact: Some PC grades are food-safe; verify.
Common uses
ToolingJigsFixturesEnd-use partsEnclosures
Pros
- Extremely strong
- High heat resistance
- Impact resistant
- Stiff
Cons
- Needs very high temps
- Warping
- Expensive
- Requires enclosure
Typical price: $30–60/kg