The latest additions to the Method platform, the Method Carbon Fiber Editions, print carbon fiber-reinforced nylon that is engineered for high strength and heat resistance. The new Method and Method X Carbon Fiber Editions come pre-configured with a new composite extruder suitable for processing abrasive materials. The extruder, which is also available as an upgrade for the Method and Method X 3D printers, features hardened metal drive gears, a metal filament switch and a replaceable hardened steel nozzle. The extruder can print MakerBot nylon carbon fiber material and all other model materials supported on the Method platform.

The new MakerBot nylon carbon fiber material is a lightweight alternative to metal for structural applications such as vehicle mounts and test gauges, manufacturing tools such as robotic end effectors, and engine bay applications. Due to its strong thermal and mechanical properties, carbon fiber is often used as an alternative to metal parts in the manufacturing, automotive and aerospace industries.

Method's heated chamber enables the production of strong, production-quality nylon-carbon fiber parts. Users can print complex geometries with internal voids using MakerBot 's PVA soluble support material and cure the final part for added strength with the new anneal feature of Method's heated chamber. With Method X Carbon Fiber Editions, users can print complex geometries with Stratasys SR-30 soluble supports for better surface quality, according to the company. Breakaway supports are also available for faster print results. Method's dry-sealed material chambers help keep the moisture-sensitive nylon carbon fiber material dry, resulting in better print quality.

The Stratasys subsidiary plans to offer additional composite materials for the Method Carbon Fiber Editions and the composite extruder for Method in the future. As Method X has a higher chamber temperature than Method of up to 110 °C at build level, it should be able to support a wider range of high-performance composite materials in the future.

The 3D printers' combination of a heated chamber, sturdy steel frame, sealed material chambers, high-performance extruders and dissolvable supports are designed to enable engineers to print consistently accurate parts. MakerBot materials include Nylon Carbon Fiber, PC-ABS, PC-ABS FR, ABS, ASA, Nylon, PETG, Tough, PLA, and SR-30 and PVA support materials. With the availability of the MakerBot LABS extruder, users can also print with more industrial materials from material suppliers.