3DXTech Obsidian-GF PA6+GF: Glass-Filled Nylon Compatible with Markforged (1 kg, 1.75 mm)
Obsidian-GF is a short glass fiber-filled PA6 copolymer developed by 3DXTech as a drop-in alternative to Onyx for Markforged printers, though it also runs on open-frame machines built for PA6+GF. Compared to carbon-filled PA6, it's less brittle and comes in multiple colors. This listing is for the metallic silver variant, 1 kg spool, 1.75 mm. A hardened steel nozzle and a 90–110 °C bed are required.
Key Specs
- PA6 copolymer with short glass fiber reinforcement (15% per the TDS).
- More ductile and less brittle than carbon fiber-filled PA6, per 3DXTech.
- Compatible with Markforged FX20, X7, X5, X3, Mark Two, Onyx Pro, and Onyx One.
- Tensile strength of 85 MPa and HDT of 176 °C at 0.45 MPa (TDS).
- Resistant to aliphatic hydrocarbons: oils, gasoline, and lubricants.
- Nozzle temp 265–285 °C, bed 90–110 °C, enclosed chamber recommended, hardened steel nozzle required.
Will My Printer Handle This Filament?
If you own a Markforged printer from 3DXTech's compatibility list, yes — it works as a direct Onyx replacement. For open-frame printers, you'll need a hotend capable of reaching 285 °C, a bed that holds 90–110 °C, a hardened steel nozzle, and ideally an enclosed chamber: 3DXTech recommends a heated enclosure. If you're running an open machine with a brass nozzle, skip this one — you'll burn through nozzles and fight warping the entire time.
Glass Fiber vs. Carbon Fiber: Which Should You Choose?
Glass fiber produces parts that are slightly less stiff but tougher — better at absorbing impact without cracking. 3DXTech specifically markets Obsidian-GF as more ductile than their carbon-filled PA6. If you want to dig deeper, check out our article on nylon filament properties and when to use them.
Why Dry at 90 °C?
PA6 absorbs moisture fast, and wet nylon bubbles, strings, and loses mechanical strength. 3DXTech specifies drying at 90 °C for 4 hours before printing. If you don't have a filament dryer yet, browse our filament dryer selection.
Technical Specifications
| Property |
Value |
| Material |
PA6 copolymer + glass fiber |
| Diameter |
1.75 mm |
| Net weight |
1 kg |
| Color |
Metallic Silver |
| Nozzle temperature |
265–285 °C |
| Bed temperature |
90–110 °C |
| Enclosure |
Recommended |
| Nozzle |
Hardened steel |
| Layer height |
0.10 mm or greater |
| Drying |
90 °C, 4 h |
| Density (ISO 1183) |
1.22 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength (ISO 527) |
85 MPa |
| Tensile modulus |
4.6 GPa |
| Elongation at break |
5.8% |
| Flexural strength (ISO 178) |
128 MPa |
| Flexural modulus |
4.7 GPa |
| Tg (DSC) |
70 °C |
| HDT at 0.45 MPa (ISO 75) |
176 °C |
Print Tips
- Always use a hardened steel nozzle, as specified by 3DXTech.
- TDS specimens were printed on a Markforged Onyx One at 0.125 mm layer height and 100% infill.
- Dry the spool right before printing and store it with desiccant. On a Markforged, keep it in the dry box.
- For open-frame printers, use a nylon-compatible bed adhesive and print in an enclosed space.
- Avoid drafts and airflow: PA6 shrinks as it cools and will warp or lift corners.
FAQ
What format and color is this?
1.75 mm, 1 kg spool, metallic silver. Part number NYL10GF101000SV01, verified on 3dxtech.com.
Is it compatible with my Markforged?
3DXTech lists it as compatible with the FX20, X7, X5, X3, Mark Two, Onyx Pro, and Onyx One.
Can I use it in an open-frame printer?
Yes, in any printer capable of running PA6+GF, according to 3DXTech. You'll need a hardened nozzle and the ability to reach 285 °C.
Does it require a heated chamber?
3DXTech recommends one.
What temperature can it handle?
HDT of 176 °C at 0.45 MPa per the TDS. Tg is 70 °C.
Is it conductive or ESD-safe?
No. The TDS reports a surface resistance greater than 10⁹ Ω/sq.
Is it resistant to oils and fuels?
3DXTech cites resistance to aliphatic hydrocarbons including oil, gasoline, and lubricants.
Is it the same as Onyx?
3DXTech positions it as an Onyx alternative, but Onyx uses carbon fiber while this filament uses fiberglass. For a direct carbon fiber substitute, check out the Obsidian Nylon 6+CF V2.
