ABS
Also known as: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, ABS Filament
A strong, heat-resistant thermoplastic known for durability but requiring an enclosure.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is the same plastic used in LEGO bricks. It’s known for excellent strength, heat resistance, and durability, but requires more advanced printing conditions.
Advantages
- Heat resistant - Won’t deform until ~100°C
- Strong - High impact and tensile strength
- Durable - Long-lasting, UV resistant
- Post-processing - Can be acetone smoothed
- Machinable - Can be drilled, tapped, sanded
Print Settings
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Nozzle Temp | 230-260°C |
| Bed Temp | 90-110°C |
| Print Speed | 40-60mm/s |
| Cooling | OFF or very low |
| Enclosure | Highly recommended |
Challenges
- Warping - Shrinks as it cools, causing corners to lift
- Fumes - Produces harmful vapors; needs ventilation
- Bed adhesion - Requires high bed temps
- Cracking - Layers can split if cooled too fast
- Enclosure needed - Drafts cause failures
Tips
- Always use an enclosure (even a cardboard box helps)
- ABS slurry (ABS dissolved in acetone) helps adhesion
- Print in well-ventilated area or use air filtration
- Don’t use cooling fan except for bridges
- Preheat the chamber before printing
Best Uses
- Automotive parts
- High-temperature applications
- Durable functional parts
- Parts that need post-processing
- Interlocking assemblies