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Choosing PA12 vs PA12-CF for an SLS-printed automotive cam cover prototype

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hey, I’m working on a three-piece cam/valve cover for a small automotive engine project, mainly a functional prototype that will see real under-hood temperatures, oil mist, and vibration, but not long-term production use. The parts need to bolt together accurately, hold a gasket seal, and stay dimensionally stable near the cylinder head. I’m planning to 3D print it via SLS, and I’m trying to decide between standard PA12 and carbon-filled PA12, as well as how dense the part really needs to be. For this kind of application, where heat resistance and stiffness matter more than surface finish, is PA12-CF worth the trade-offs, or is standard PA12 at higher density typically sufficient?

    • h

      hey, I’m working on a three-piece cam/valve cover for a small automotive engine project, mainly a functional prototype that will see real under-hood temperatures, oil mist, and vibration, but not long-term production use. The parts need to bolt together accurately, hold a gasket seal, and stay dimensionally stable near the cylinder head. I’m planning to 3D print it via SLS, and I’m trying to decide between standard PA12 and carbon-filled PA12, as well as how dense the part really needs to be. For this kind of application, where heat resistance and stiffness matter more than surface finish, is PA12-CF worth the trade-offs, or is standard PA12 at higher density typically sufficient?

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    • l

      What trade-offs are you worried about with the carbon fiber addition? It brings you better performance at high temperatures, significantly higher stiffness, and therefore dimensional stability for accurate bolt-up. So is it just the surface finish that you are worried about? If so, then YES, the PA12-CF is worth it. You can live with the slightly rougher, uneven surface in exchange for the better operating performance.

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Choosing PA12 vs PA12-CF for an SLS-printed automotive cam cover prototype
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