Differential technologies
CFIP: carbon fiber for 3D printing
CFIP, a new post-process that multiplies the mechanical properties of the parts
The Continuous Fiber Injection Process (CFIP) is a new post-processing technology developed and patented by Eurecat, which enables to reinforce parts with continuous fibers, multiplying in this way the mechanical properties while reducing the weight. It is based on injecting the continuous fibers simultaneously with liquid resin inside tubular cavities in the part. Once cured the part, the solidified resin works as a mechanical interface between the fibers and the rest of the part.
The fibers trajectories are determined by the trajectories of the tubular cavities, which can be freely designed and manufactured in all directions following complex trajectories thanks to 3D printing. It allows to reinforce parts made with any type of material, including plastics (rigid or flexible), metals or ceramics. In this way, the technology makes possible to manufacture, for example, a titanium part reinforced with continuous carbon fibers.
Ultra-high joining performance
It also enables to integrally join different parts by providing fiber continuity between them, achieving in this way ultra-high joining performance. This allows the manufacturing of multi-material and multi-process structures, selecting the most efficient material and process according to the requirements in each zone of the structure.
These are some of the most notable advantages of CFIP technology:
- Reinforcing fibers in all directions and following complex trajectories
- Stronger and lighter parts
- Reinforcement of a wide variety of materials (plastics, metals, ceramics)
- Integral joining of different parts (multi-material and multi-process structures)
Results with added value
CFIP technology enables the use of 3D printing in new applications where high mechanical and lightweighting performance is required. The good results achieved demonstrate the added value that this technology brings in different sectors such as aerospace, automotive, sporting goods or health.
Reinforce3D, the start-up focused on developing and commercializing CFIP technology
Through the start-up Reinforce3D, we drastically improve the performance of 3D printed parts by reinforcing them with continuous carbon fibers.