Markforged has been a staple in the additive manufacturing industry since 2013, bringing some of the best desktop 3D printers to the market. Capable of producing accurate, functional 3D printed parts, here are three reasons why Markforged's patented Continuous Fiber Reinforcement technology makes their machines stand out. 

What is Markforged's Continuous Fiber Reinforcement (CFR) Technology?

Markforged's Continuous Fiber Reinforcement (CFR) is a patented process that lays down a continuous strand of fiber within a traditional FFF 3D printed part. A second nozzle extrudes the fiber (carbon fiber, fiberglass, or even Kevlar) into the part, increasing the strength of the part. 

Markforged
Markforged's CFR Technology is designed to make stronger 3D printed parts.

1. 3D Print Parts that are 10x Stronger than Traditional Methods

Markforged's CFR technology was created to reinforce 3D-printed parts, making them stronger and more durable for functional and industrial applications. Because of the continuous fiber strand, parts are an order of magnitude stronger, stiffer, and more durable than plastic, and even maintain heat and chemical resistance. 

Don't believe this? Check out this video of a 3D printed part that has been reinforced with carbon fiber using Markforged's CFR technology. 

2. CFR Technology is Robust Enough to Replace Machined Metal

Continuous Fiber Reinforcement allows Markforged 3D printers to produce parts that are strong enough to replace some machined aluminum metal parts. Of course, this can depend on the parameters of the model and application, but overall, the strength added by CFR technology is on par with that of aluminum machined parts. Plus, it's an affordable alternative to metal machining, and usually has a faster turnaround time. 

Just ask Wärtsilä, solutions specialists and manufacturers in marine and energy markets, who are using Markforged 3D printers for a variety of applications, but most notably, for a lifting tool that is used for building and servicing cargo ship engines. 

Usually, these lifting tools are made from solid steel, but even the carbon fiber 3D printed part was able to lift up to 960kg with a safety factor of four! 

“This will enable Wärtsilä to speed up the introduction of new products with faster, cheaper, and safer tool creation.” — Giuseppe Saragò, Director, Manufacturing Excellence, Wärtsilä

Wartsila
Wartsila's 3D printing a lifting tool, which was originally made out of solid steel and weight 75% more.

3. There are a Variety of Continuous Fiber Materials to Choose From

Markforged's continued dive into developing top-tier materials to use with their machines and CFR is neverending, and so far that dive has produced some fantastic results. Markforged desktop 3D printer users can create with the following materials to fit any application*: 

  • Carbon Fiber
  • Aramid Fiber (Kevlar®)
  • Fiberglass
  • HSHT Fiberglass

The ability to prototype or create usable parts from a variety of materials is essential for many industries, the U.S. Army included. They use Markforged machines and materials to create personal protective equipment (PPE), window wiper brackets for military vehicles, tools, and low-volume production parts.

The US Army uses Markforged 3D printers to create strong replacement parts and equipment.
The US Army uses Markforged 3D printers to create strong replacement parts and equipment.

Need more reasons on why Markforged's CFR technology is a game changer for producing strong parts? Explore everything Markforged here, or contact us at sales@matterhackers.com to learn more. 

*Please note, some of the continuous fiber material options are not compatible with all Markforged 3D printers.