Testing Of The Clip

At Thermo Printing, we push our designs to the limit to ensure they meet real-world job site demands. Our one-of-a-kind clip is crafted from carbon fiber-reinforced nylon (PA6-CF), an advanced engineering material that can be annealed for even greater strength.

To test its durability, we suspended a 5-gallon bucket filled to the brim of water—approximately 45 pounds of dead weight—using our clip. The result? Zero structural damage to the clip mechanism itself. It held strong without failure. However, under extreme stress, the aluminum hook experienced fatigue and bent at the hinge.

This test proves the toughness of our PA6-CF clip and helps us refine other components for even greater reliability. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of tool organization!

What Is PA6-CF?

PA6-CF is a carbon fiber-reinforced polyamide 6 (nylon 6) composite filament used in 3D printing and manufacturing. It combines the properties of PA6 (Nylon 6) with the added strength, stiffness, and heat resistance of carbon fiber.

Key Properties of PA6-CF:

• High Strength & Stiffness – Carbon fiber reinforcement significantly increases the material’s tensile strength and rigidity compared to standard PA6.
• Lightweight – Despite its strength, it remains relatively lightweight due to carbon fiber's low density.
• Improved Heat Resistance – Typically withstands higher temperatures than unreinforced PA6.
• Good Wear & Abrasion Resistance – Suitable for mechanical and industrial parts exposed to friction.
• Reduced Warping & Shrinkage – Carbon fiber helps minimize distortion during printing.
• Chemical Resistance – Resistant to oils, fuels, and many industrial chemicals.
• Lower Moisture Absorption – While PA6 normally absorbs moisture, carbon fiber reinforcement helps reduce this effect.

Common Applications:

• Functional prototypes
• Structural components
• Automotive parts
• Aerospace components
• Industrial tools & jigs
• High-strength brackets and enclosures