What is PA12 CF30?
Long carbon fiber nylon12 composite.
PA12 CF30 is a high-performance engineering thermoplastic composite, consisting of a Polyamide 12 (PA12 or Nylon 12) matrix reinforced with 30% Carbon Fibers (CF) by weight. The PA12 base resin is prized for its unique property profile, including very low moisture absorption, excellent chemical resistance (to fuels, oils, solvents), outstanding dimensional stability, and good impact strength, especially at low temperatures. When infused with carbon fibers-renowned for their extreme stiffness, high tensile strength, and exceptionally low density-the resulting PA12 CF30 composite achieves a level of performance far exceeding that of unreinforced plastics, making it a material of choice for precision, lightweight structural components.
The ultimate capability of this composite, however, is dictated by the length of the reinforcing carbon fibers. LFT-G® PA12 CF30 represents the apex of this technology, utilizing Long Carbon Fiber Technology (LFT). Unlike conventional Short Carbon Fiber (SCF) composites, the "long fiber" in LFT-G® PA12 CF30 forms an integral, interlocking 3D skeletal network within the PA12 matrix. This LCF structure is paramount for maximizing mechanical properties, delivering vastly superior impact strength, exceptional fatigue endurance, and metal-like stiffness at a fraction of the density. This positions LFT-G® PA12 CF30 as a premier choice for replacing metals like aluminum and zinc die-castings in applications where precision, stability, and low weight are non-negotiable.
How strong is PA12 CF?
LFT-G® PA12-CF30 Datasheet
Mechanical PropertiesProperty |
Typical Value |
Unit |
Test Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 210 - 230 | MPa | ISO 527-1/-2 |
| Tensile Modulus | 19,000 - 23,000 | MPa | ISO 527-1/-2 |
| Elongation at Break | 1.5 - 2.5 | % | ISO 527-1/-2 |
| Flexural Strength | 290 - 330 | MPa | ISO 178 |
| Flexural Modulus | 11,000 - 14,000 | MPa | ISO 178 |
| Notched Izod Impact Strength (23°C) | 20 - 40 | kJ/m² |
ISO 180/1A
|
Other Properties
| Property | Typical Value | Unit | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Density
|
1.10 - 1.17 |
g/cm³
|
ISO 1183
|
|
Linear Mold Shrinkage (Flow / Transverse)
|
0.1-0.2 / 0.2-0.4 | % |
ISO 294-4 |
|
Heat Deflection Temperature (1.8 MPa) |
160 - 175 | °C |
ISO 75-2/A
|
| Melting Temperature (DSC) | 175 - 180 | °C | ISO 11357-3 |
| Moisture Absorption (23°C, 24h immersion) | ~0.2 - 0.4 | % | ISO 62 |
Advantages:
LFT-G® PA12 CF30 is engineered as a transformative metal replacement solution, especially where dimensional precision and environmental resistance are key. The 30% long carbon fibers form an interconnected, skeletal network within the robust Polyamide 12 matrix. This LCF structure is fundamentally better at distributing stress and resisting environmental effects compared to short fiber composites. For your applications, this unlocks the following core advantages:
- Outstanding Dimensional Stability (Very Low Moisture Absorption)
- Excellent Chemical Resistance (to Fuels, Oils, Solvents)
- Superior Low-Temperature Impact Strength & Toughness
- High Strength-to-Weight Ratio for Lightweighting
- Extreme Stiffness & Rigidity for Precision Parts
- Very Low and Predictable Mold Shrinkage
- Good Wear Resistance and Low Coefficient of Friction
- Excellent Long-Term Fatigue & Creep Performance
What to use PA CF for?
The unique performance profile of LFT-G® PA12 CF30 makes it a critical enabling material for applications where lightweight strength, high stiffness, exceptional precision, and long-term durability in challenging environments are non-negotiable.
Automotive Engine Part
While the "Engine Part" category often implies high-heat applications better suited for PA66, LFT-G® PA12 CF30 excels in other critical automotive areas where its specific properties shine. It is the premier choice for automotive fuel system components, including fuel lines, connectors, and pump housings, due to its outstanding resistance to modern biofuels and gasoline blends. Its low moisture absorption makes it ideal for pneumatic system components like air brake tubing and connectors that must maintain dimensional integrity. Furthermore, it is used for precision sensor housings, electronic connector bodies, and complex mechanism parts within interiors where stability across temperature and humidity is paramount.


UAV Propeller Part
In the demanding aerospace and drone industries, the properties of LFT-G® PA12 CF30 are highly valued. While PA66 LCF might be used for some high-stiffness propellers, PA12 CF30 is excellent for drone frames, landing gear, and structural body panels where superior toughness and impact resistance, especially in cold conditions, are critical for surviving rough landings. It is also used for gimbal components and camera mounts that require exceptional dimensional stability and vibration damping for clear imaging. In robotics, its lightweight stiffness is ideal for end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), gripper fingers, and precision robotic arms where low inertia and positional accuracy are key.
Bicycle Water holder Part
While its performance far exceeds the needs of a simple water holder, LFT-G® PA12 CF30 is a premier material for high-performance sporting goods where durability, precision, and low weight are essential. It is specified for professional-grade ski boot shells and snowboard bindings, where its excellent low-temperature impact strength and stiffness are vital for performance and safety on the slopes. Other applications include components for precision archery equipment like riser sections and sight mounts, durable and lightweight housings for sports electronics (GPS units, action cameras), and structural elements in other high-end equipment where consistent performance regardless of weather conditions is required.

LFT-G®PA12 CF30 VS. Other Materials
Understanding how LFT-G® PA12 CF30 compares to other common engineering materials is key to smart material selection.
| Property |
LFT-G® PA12 CF30(LCF30) |
PA6 LCF30 | Die-Cast Aluminum | PA12 SCF30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | ~1.12 | ~1.22 | ~2.70 | ~1.11 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | ~165 | ~210 | ~310 | ~130 |
| Impact Strength (Notched Izod, kJ/m²) | ~30 | ~35 | N/A (Ductile) | ~8 |
| Moisture Absorption (Equilibrium, 23°C/50%RH) | ~0.5% (Very Low) | ~2.5% (High) | N/A | ~0.5% (Very Low) |
| Specific Strength (Strength/Density, kNm/kg) | ~147 | ~172 | ~115 | ~117 |
Note: Data represents typical values for ~30% carbon fiber reinforced polyamides and can vary significantly based on specific grades and processing. Polyamide materials are hygroscopic; properties are affected by moisture content. Data often refers to dry-as-molded (DAM) conditions. Always consult official LFT-G® datasheets for your chosen PA12 CF30 material.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between nylon 12 and nylon 12 CF?
A: Nylon 12 (PA12) is the base polymer. "Nylon 12 CF" is a composite made by reinforcing that PA12 base with Carbon Fibers (CF). The addition of carbon fibers, as in LFT-G® PA12 CF30, dramatically increases the material's strength, stiffness (modulus), and dimensional stability compared to unreinforced Nylon 12, transforming it into a high-performance engineering material suitable for structural applications.
Q: Is PA12 stronger than PA6?
A: In their unreinforced states, PA6 typically has higher tensile strength and stiffness than PA12. However, PA12 offers better impact strength (especially at low temperatures) and significantly lower moisture absorption. When reinforced, as in LFT-G® PA12 CF30, its properties are massively enhanced, making it very strong. The "stronger" material depends on the specific requirement: for pure tensile strength in dry conditions, a PA6 or PA66 composite might be higher, but for reliable performance in humid environments or where impact toughness is key, PA12 CF30 is often superior.
Q: How about your package?
A: Our standard packaging for high-performance materials like LFT-G® PA12 CF30 is a 25kg, multi-layer, moisture-proof bag with an inner aluminum foil liner. This ensures the material is protected from atmospheric moisture during transport and storage. For larger quantities, we can also provide bulk packaging solutions such as octabins. Please contact our sales team to discuss your specific packaging requirements.
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