PPA-CF vs PA6-CF?

Does anyone have experience printing PPA-CF and PA6-CF? I had read that “PPA-CF is 48% stronger” than PA6 if you get good layer adhesion, but I’m seeing conflicting info regarding impact resistance. Anyone have input who’s printed and used both?

  • Kopsis
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    2 months ago

    At 5% moisture content (about as high as you’ll get unless the part is literally submerged), Polymaker PA6-CF still has 50% more tensile strength and 165% more impact strength than their PLA Pro. Layer adhesion is weaker (63%) and stiffness is slightly lower (85%). Most designs that will work in PLA+/PLA Pro will work fine in moisture conditioned PA6-CF.

    Coatings like Cerakote can slow moisture absorption, but when you consider the cost and effort, you’re far better off just printing in something like PPA-CF.

    • RenegadeSC
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      2 months ago

      Appreciate the info, Im still entirely new to 90% of these materials as I only have experience with standard PLA and PETG. I just pulled the trigger on a P1S so let the learning curve begin.

      Filaments I’m starting with: Polymaker - PA6-CF, PLA Pro, and ASA Siraya Tech - PET-CF and PET-GF Overture - PLA Pro, TPU 95A

      Ended up getting the AMS 2 combo with hardened steel nozzles and hotends. Im gonna just look around for an air fryer at local thrift stores as the Sunlu E2 seems to be the only filament dryer that can reach 90C+ and $360 for it is a bit insane.