ABS filament – robust and versatile for demanding 3D printing projects
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a popular material in 3D printing, known for its strength, durability, and heat resistance. It is ideal for functional and mechanical parts as well as prototypes that must withstand high stresses.
Properties and advantages of ABS filament
- Robust and durable: ABS is impact-resistant and resistant to mechanical stresses, making it ideal for durable components.
- Heat resistant: With high temperature resistance, ABS is suitable for applications that must withstand heat and stress.
- Smooth surface: ABS offers a clean, smooth surface that can be easily post-processed, e.g., by sanding or painting.
- Workable: ABS can be treated with acetone to achieve a glossy surface or better bond layers.
Applications of ABS filament
Thanks to its strength and heat resistance, ABS is used for a variety of applications:
- Functional prototypes: ABS is ideal for mechanical parts and functional prototypes exposed to high stresses.
- Housings and covers: Its stability and resistance make it perfect for housings and covers.
- Toys and tools: For products that must be durable and impact-resistant.
Printing settings for ABS
ABS requires special printing settings to avoid warping and cracking:
- Printing temperature: Usually between 220°C and 260°C, depending on the filament.
- Heated bed: A heated bed temperature of about 80°C to 110°C improves adhesion and minimizes warping.
- Enclosure recommended: Since ABS tends to warp, a closed build chamber helps maintain a constant temperature and improves print quality.
Variants and special ABS filaments
Besides standard ABS, there are special variants like ABS+, which warps less, or ABS with carbon fiber, which offers additional strength. Colored variants, such as black or transparent ABS, as well as filaments with higher heat resistance, are also available.
PLA or ABS? – The comparison
- PLA is easier to print and ideal for decorative or less stressed parts.
- ABS, on the other hand, is better suited for technical applications because it is more durable and heat resistant.
Purchase and quality
When buying ABS filament, you should pay attention to quality and recommended printing settings. High-quality manufacturers offer consistent print quality and less warping. Test reports and user experiences can be helpful in choosing the best ABS filament.
ABS filament is the right choice for anyone who needs durable and load-bearing parts and is willing to consider the special requirements in the printing process.