The Engineering Sample Lab (Feb 10–Mar 23) allows engineers and makers to test small sample coils of our engineering filaments, including PA6-CF, PA12-CF, PA6-GF25, PC-ABS, and PA6/66. Participants apply these materials to real projects, creating fully functional parts while exploring material performance on their own printers.
Why Start with Sample Coils
Using small sample coils before committing to full-size spools has several advantages:
● Cost efficiency – Only a fraction of a full spool is needed to validate a material, reducing waste on failed prints.
● Quick experimentation – Test multiple materials, print settings, and geometries in parallel.
● Minimised risk – Identify potential issues like warping, adhesion problems, or dimensional inaccuracies early.
● Material selection confidence – Compare filaments side by side based on real results.
● Project-specific tuning – Adjust printer settings for your preferred material while still using minimal filament.
Real Feedback from Makers
Many participants reported that trying engineering filaments they had never used before gave them a new perspective on material performance:
● They noticed improved strength, stiffness, or heat resistance compared to previous filaments.
● Printing with these small sample coils allowed them to experiment with different settings safely, discovering the optimal temperature, speed, and layer height for each material.
● Users expressed that this process boosted their confidence in 3D printing, making them more comfortable tackling complex functional parts in future projects.
By testing small samples first, engineers and makers not only validate the material but also improve their own printing skills, creating a virtuous cycle of learning and successful fabrication.
Real Prints from Real Makers
Below are some highlights from participants. These prints are practical, fully functional, and created with the same sample coils provided in the event:
PA6-CF Handle
by Jason Lee
A robust replacement handle designed for repeated mechanical stress.
PA6-CF Gear Sight
by Robin Rave
A lightweight yet rigid aiming accessory with excellent dimensional accuracy.
PA6-CF Knife Holder
by Steve Baker
Printed for workshop use — stiffness + wear resistance make PA6-CF ideal for this type of fixture.
PA6-CF Telescope Adapter
by Jorge SP
A custom adapter requiring high structural stability for optical alignment.
PA6-GF25 Line Bracket
by Shannon Uhlir
Designed for stability under constant load; glass-fibre reinforcement keeps the part rigid and vibration-resistant.
PA12-CF Enclosure Cover
by Justin Gardner
A clean, impact-resistant cover for electronics and small equipment.
Why These Builds Matter
These real-world projects highlight critical material considerations:
● Stiffness & load resistance (PA6-CF)
● Toughness & structural rigidity (PA6-GF25)
● Dimensional stability & precision (PA12-CF)
Seeing what other engineers create can help you evaluate which material fits your next project and inspire new ideas for functional 3D prints.
Try These Materials Yourself — Until Mar 23
The Engineering Sample Lab makes it easy to:
● Mix & match sample coils to test different materials for your projects
● Receive automatic discounts up to 30% in the cart
● Test small, decide smart, and avoid wasting full-size spools
