[Thomas Sanladerer] He wanted to create 3D prints with carbon fiber. He was surprised at how inexpensive it was and that it worked very well. However, he did mention that the process was a little intense. Learn what he learned in the video.
He used an advanced PLA which can withstand higher temperatures than regular PLA. That’s important because the process uses heat and the carbon fiber resin will produce heat as it cures. It was fairly simple to create a mold, except for the material.
He only wanted to remove the most obvious imperfections. Next, he will put a UV-resistant resin on the mould to stop the carbon fiber resin bonding with the plastic. The three layers UV resin will remain on the mold.
Carbon fiber sheets come in many different styles. [Thomas] explains. You need a respirator, and adequate ventilation to work with these resins and fibers.
Once the mold is ready, you place the carbon fiber resin sheets and the material. After you’ve layered all the fibers and resin, place a special sheet of paper on the back of the mold and then wrap it in cloth. The last step is to place the entire affair into a vacuum bag. It will then be gently heated.
Although the first attempt was not perfect, it produced a good result. Second test was not as successful. It was only the third attempt that worked. It looks like a lot of work and, of course, the 3D printer is really only making the mold — this same process would be true of any carbon fiber process where you had a mold or something to wrap.
Carbon fiber isn’t always made with a mold, of course. It can be electroplated.