ABS-CF (carbon-fiber ABS): density, print temperature and when to choose it
ABS-CF is ABS reinforced with chopped carbon fiber. Compared to glass-filled ABS it gives higher stiffness and a better strength-to-weight ratio, a characteristic matte black surface, and noticeably less shrinkage and warping than plain ABS. The price for this is nozzle abrasiveness and higher brittleness.
Key properties
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | ≈1.12 g/cm³ |
| Nozzle temperature | 240–265°C |
| Bed temperature | 95–110°C |
| Part cooling | minimal |
| Shrinkage | low for the ABS family |
| Enclosure required | yes |
When to use it
- Lightweight rigid housings and brackets where specific stiffness (strength per unit weight) matters.
- Jigs and fixtures that need minimal warping on large flat parts.
- Replacing aluminum parts in lightweight structures where full metal stiffness is overkill.
- Functional prototypes with a visible carbon-textured finish and no paint.
When to pick something else
- Impact strength matters — reinforcement makes the part more brittle; for impact loads plain ABS or ASA is better.
- A brass nozzle is the only one on hand — carbon fiber wears it down quickly; for a less abrasive alternative take ABS-GF.
- You need higher heat resistance at similar stiffness — look at PC-CF, which holds up to heat noticeably better.
Pros and cons
Pros: high stiffness and a good strength-to-weight ratio, minimal warping and shrinkage relative to plain ABS, an attractive matte surface with no extra finishing.
Cons: highly abrasive to the nozzle — a hardened or carbide nozzle is essential for regular use; more brittle on impact than unfilled ABS; the sharp odor of printing an ABS base remains, so ventilation is needed; limited color choice (usually black only).
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RuStoreHow it affects your print cost
The main cost driver for ABS-CF is nozzle wear: a brass nozzle wears down noticeably faster than with plain ABS and needs to be budgeted as a consumable for regular use of this material, otherwise extrusion accuracy drops over time and defect rates climb. At the same time, reduced shrinkage and warping relative to plain ABS mean fewer failed prints on large parts, which partly offsets the higher filament price and equipment wear.