Dual Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC)
Our CF3D® technology, paired with the CeraMat™ high-performance resin system, enables the production of advanced Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) for extreme environments. By leveraging continuous fiber 3D printing, we manufacture lightweight, high-strength structures precisely engineered for thermal, mechanical, and environmental endurance beyond traditional material limits.
TPS & Re-Entry Benefits
-
Survives thermal loads above 1,000°C
-
Maintains strength under extreme stress
-
Enables precise fiber layup for heat control
-
Produces consistent, fiber-steered ablative geometries
Hypersonic Vehicle Benefits
-
Stable at temperatures up to 3,500°C
-
Near-zero erosion under extreme heat and velocity
-
Fiber-steered reinforcement for load alignment
-
Near-net carbon–carbon leading edges and ducts
Reusable Flight Hardware Benefits
-
Engineered for repeated thermal and mechanical cycles
-
Maintains stability over long-duration missions
-
Delivers consistent performance across entire flight
-
Extends service life through durable CMC architecture
Ablative Shingle Angle
This demonstrator showcases CF3D’s ability to print ablative geometries while maintaining consistent fiber volume through tow-level steering.
MATERIAL
- Fiber: Hexcel IM7-12K
- Resin: CeraMat™ Ceramic Precursor
HIGHLIGHTS
- Performance Advantage: Fiber-steering to hold consistent tow-pitch which reduces variance in ply thickness
- Automation Advantages: Continuous fiber ablatives can be produced on complex shapes without operator intervention
Tapered Fiber Architecture
Demonstrates non-parallel cross-section layup, transitioning from a closed panel to stiffened geometry.
MATERIAL
- Fiber: Toray T1100-12K
- Resin: CeraMat™ Ceramic Precursor
HIGHLIGHTS
- Performance Advantage: Unique cross-section provides pockets for post-densification coatings.
-
Mechanical Benefits: Stair-stepped edge condition creates a mechanical interlock with additional materials.
Advantages of Our CMC Approach
CF3D redefines how Ceramic Matrix Composites are made—combining fiber steering, precision deposition, and rapid in-situ curing into one digital process. This approach accelerates production while enabling tailored material systems for high-temperature applications. By producing near-net-shape preforms with minimal waste and energy input, CF3D delivers a faster, cleaner, and more adaptive path to advanced CMC structures.
Fiber Steered Frustum
Demonstrates precise fiber steering with constant fiber pitch across a complex, tapered geometry—showcasing CF3D’s ability to maintain performance consistency even in non-uniform structures.
MATERIAL
- Fiber: Hexcel IM7-12K
- Resin: CeraMat™ Ceramic Precursor
HIGHLIGHTS
- Performance Advantage — Achieves uniform fiber volume and minimal void content through constant fiber pitch, ensuring structural integrity and repeatable performance.
- Manufacturing Benefit — Maintains full surface coverage while eliminating unwanted laps and gaps, reducing post-processing and enhancing overall part quality.
Woven Fiber Cylinder
Demonstrates Selective Fiber Placement (SFP) to form a continuous, woven cylinder—showcasing through-thickness reinforcement and uniform fiber architecture across a closed geometry.
MATERIAL
- Fiber: Hexcel IM7-12K
- Resin: CeraMat™
HIGHLIGHTS
-
Performance Advantage: Continuous fiber interlacing delivers balanced hoop and axial strength, mitigating delamination and enhancing load transfer under pressure and thermal stress.
-
Manufacturing Benefits: Automated fiber steering enables a seamless 3D weave without cut or termination points, improving repeatability and eliminating weak interfaces.
Meet With Our Technical Team
Share your application requirements with our engineering team and explore whether CF3D is the right manufacturing approach.