How to print with Ultimaker PC

Ultimaker PC (polycarbonate) is a very strong and tough material that can be used for various engineering applications. Here are guidelines for getting started with Ultimaker PC and tips to achieve the best 3D print results.

Note:  The information provided here applies to Ultimaker PC, similar quality cannot be guaranteed with third-party filaments.

Compatibility

You can use Ultimaker PC on the Ultimaker S5, Ultimaker 3, and Ultimaker 2+ (Connect), with the nozzle sizes shown in the below overview. If you print PC on the Ultimaker S5 or Ultimaker 3, ensure to use the AA print cores.

PrinterCompatible print cores / nozzlesUltimaker S5 (Pro Bundle)AA 0.25 (experimental), AA0.4, AA 0.8 (experimental)Ultimaker S3AA 0.25 (experimental), AA 0.4, AA 0.8 (experimental)Ultimaker 3 (Extended)AA 0.25 (experimental), AA 0.4, AA 0.8 (experimental)Ultimaker 2+ Connect0.25, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8Ultimaker 2+ (Extended)0.25, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8

Tip: The combination of PC using an AA 0.25 or AA 0.8 print core is an experimental combination. It has a material profile that can be selected in Ultimaker Cura. However, more complicated prints, with tiny features or a large build plate surface, may show increased warpage or oozing. In these cases, the print core 0.4 is advised.

Note: Ultimaker PC is not supported on the Ultimaker 2 Go, Ultimaker 2 (Extended), Ultimaker Original+, and Ultimaker Original

Ultimaker PC is only officially supported for single material prints. Experimental use of PC in combination with Breakaway, TPU 95A or another color of PC is possible though.

¹ Dual combinations with TPU 95A may result in stringing and blobs on the surface of the print
² Only possible for small prints. Larger prints may show warping of the build material

Recommended settings and configuration

Note: Always use the latest version of Ultimaker Cura and make sure that your 3D printer is updated with the latest firmware version to include the correct material profile for Ultimaker PC.

Temperatures

Ultimaker PC prints at relatively high temperatures, between 260 and 280 °C. The build plate temperature is set to approximately 110 °C, but this slightly differs per printer model.

Note:  The correct temperatures are automatically used based on the printer, nozzle size, and profile you select in Ultimaker Cura.

Adhesion

Ultimaker PC is not an easy-to-print material because it tends to warp and delaminate if the printing environment and settings are not perfect.

We strongly recommend using glue on the Ultimaker S5, Ultimaker S3, Ultimaker 2+ Connect and Ultimaker 3, and the adhesion sheets on the Ultimaker 2+ to achieve the best build plate adhesion when printing with Ultimaker PC.