PA6-GF (glass-fiber nylon): density, temperature, when to choose it
PA6-GF is PA6 nylon reinforced with chopped glass fiber (usually 15–30% by weight). Glass fiber sharply raises stiffness, heat resistance under load, and dimensional stability compared to plain nylon — a popular choice for loaded functional parts and jigs/fixtures.
Key properties
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.30–1.40 g/cm³ (depends on glass fiber %) |
| Nozzle temperature | 260–280°C |
| Bed temperature | 80–100°C |
| Part cooling | minimal |
| Shrinkage | lower than plain nylon (fiber stabilizes it) |
| Enclosure required | recommended |
Density is noticeably higher than plain PA6 (≈1.14 g/cm³) — that's the glass fiber, which also increases the finished part's weight at the same volume.
When to use it
- Jigs and fixtures for workshop use, where stiffness and dimensional stability under tool-generated heat are needed.
- Brackets and housings under mechanical load, where plain nylon or PETG deflects.
- Replacing aluminum parts in prototypes — by stiffness per volume, PA6-GF is closer to metal than most plastics.
When to pick something else
- You need a visually smooth surface — glass fiber makes the surface rough to the touch and matte.
- Printing on a brass nozzle — glass fiber is abrasive and quickly bores out brass; you need a hardened or carbide nozzle.
- Extra stiffness isn't needed — the glass fiber premium isn't worth it; take plain PA12 or PETG.
Pros and cons
Pros: high stiffness and heat resistance under load compared to plain nylon, less warping and shrinkage, holds threads and inserts well.
Cons: abrasive — a hardened nozzle is mandatory, otherwise a brass one wears out within a few spools; a rough matte surface; hygroscopic like any nylon and needs drying; more expensive than base materials.
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Beyond the higher filament price itself, factor in nozzle wear — abrasive glass fiber cuts a standard brass nozzle's service life dramatically; be sure to budget a hardened nozzle (or its periodic replacement) as part of this material's print cost, not just the spool price.