In 3D printing, both long carbon fiber and short carbon fiber are used as reinforcement materials to enhance the strength and durability of printed parts. Here’s an overview of their differences:


1. Long Carbon Fiber
Long carbon fibers are continuous strands that are incorporated into the printing material. This type of fiber provides superior strength, stiffness, and structural integrity to the printed parts. The continuous fibers create a strong matrix within the material, resulting in parts with higher tensile strength and load-bearing capacity. Long fiber reinforcement can increase the mechanical strength of products by several times, even by an order of magnitude, especially in terms of tensile strength and impact resistance. When continuous fibers, such as carbon fiber, reach a certain percentage content, their strength can surpass that of aluminum alloys. Long carbon fiber is typically used in applications that require maximum strength and durability, such as aerospace, automotive, and industrial components.


2. Short Carbon Fiber
Short carbon fibers are small, chopped fibers mixed into the 3D printing filament. While they enhance the material's strength and stiffness, the improvement is less significant compared to long carbon fiber. Short carbon fibers are easier to process in standard 3D printers, making them more accessible and cost-effective. They’re commonly used for producing moderately strong and lightweight parts.