PC Filament (Polycarbonate)
Polycarbonate (PC) is an ultra-strong, naturally transparent amorphous engineering thermoplastic characterized by extreme impact resistance, optical clarity, flame retardancy, and high heat deflection temperatures (often exceeding 110°C to 120°C).
Thermal Resistance & Mechanical Toughness
Polycarbonate is used in bulletproof glass, riot shields, and high-temp automotive components. In 3D printing, it yields virtually indestructible functional parts that survive high under-hood temperatures where PETG and PLA melt.
Warping, Bed Adhesion, and Enclosure Needs
Printing pure PC requires a 270°C–310°C all-metal hotend, a heated bed at 100°C–120°C, and a high-temperature enclosure. Without an enclosure, severe internal shrinkage leads to aggressive layer splitting and bed detachment.
Commercial Cost Multipliers for PC Components
Given the high material cost, intense machine electrical power consumption, and slow print speeds, print shops quote polycarbonate orders with significant margin multipliers.
Calculate 3D Print Costs in Real Time
Estimate exact filament gram rates, machine hours, and profit margins for any MakerWorld design or 3MF/STL upload.
Calculate Now