PETG-CF (carbon-fiber PETG): density, temperature, when to choose it
PETG-CF is plain PETG reinforced with chopped carbon fiber. The fiber raises stiffness and gives a characteristic matte surface with a light silky sheen, while keeping the easy printability that PETG is known for (unlike nylon).
Key properties
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.25–1.35 g/cm³ (depends on fiber %) |
| Nozzle temperature | 240–260°C |
| Bed temperature | 70–80°C |
| Part cooling | moderate |
| Shrinkage | minimal, lower than plain PETG |
| Enclosure required | no, but doesn't hurt |
When to use it
- Functional parts that need higher stiffness than plain PETG without dealing with nylon's drying requirements.
- Drones, frames, brackets — a good stiffness-to-weight ratio and simple printing.
- Parts where appearance matters — the matte carbon texture looks upscale without painting.
When to pick something else
- Printing on a brass nozzle with no spares — carbon fiber is abrasive, and brass wears faster than usual; a hardened nozzle is needed.
- You need the highest stiffness available — PA6-GF or plain PC is stiffer.
- Budget is limited and reinforcement isn't critical — plain PETG is cheaper and prints just as easily.
Pros and cons
Pros: noticeably higher stiffness and less shrinkage than plain PETG, at similar printing ease; no enclosure needed; a pleasant matte surface with no post-processing.
Cons: the abrasive fiber requires a hardened nozzle; more expensive than plain PETG; impact toughness may be LOWER than plain PETG's (fiber increases stiffness but not always toughness).
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In terms of temperatures and energy use, PETG-CF is almost identical to plain PETG — it prints without an enclosure on most printers. The main cost difference is the higher spool price and the need for a hardened nozzle (or more frequent replacement if using brass) — budget that as its own line item rather than treating it as "just PETG."