ABS filaments for 3D printing

Filament is a plastic «thread» necessary when using 3D printers; this is wound onto a spool which in turn is fed into the printer. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene – ABS – is one of the most popular 3D printing filaments, being an impact-resistant and durable thermoplastic material, but also economical compared to other options on the market. ABS is the material from which LEGO pieces and protective helmets for cyclists are made.

What are ABS filaments?

ABS, or Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, stands out as a favorite among thermoplastic materials in the world of 3D printing, particularly for FDM rapid prototyping technologies. Its widespread use can be attributed to its impressive combination of durability, rigidity, and strong impact resistance. Available in convenient rolls, these filaments typically come in standard diameters of 1.75mm and 2.85mm, making them compatible with most FDM printers.

One of the standout benefits of ABS is its impressive resilience. This material not only holds up exceptionally well against impacts but also boasts strong resistance to high temperatures, chemical exposure, and mechanical wear. While ABS filaments can be recycled, it’s essential to recognize that they are not biodegradable, which may be a factor for eco-conscious creators. Another important trait to keep in mind during the 3D printing process is ABS’s tendency to contract as it cools, which might call for specific adjustments or considerations depending on the project. With its unique combination of durability and versatility, ABS remains a top choice for makers seeking dependable performance and flexibility in their 3D printing endeavors.

Advantages of ABS filaments

To analyze the pros and cons of ABS filaments we need to identify both the advantages and disadvantages of this material, to ensure you make the right choice for your needs.

Among the advantages of ABS filaments are:

• • Excellent mechanical properties: ABS is a hard, tough and rigid material, resistant to scratches, heat and chemical agents.

• • Provides the expected results: as long as you print using the correct settings, especially for temperature, the end result will be the one you want;

• • Easy to work with: the material is «forgiving», so you can play with acetone, you can paint it with acrylic paints, you can also file it; from this point of view it is a material that gives you maximum flexibility;

• • Price: ABS filaments are among the best, but also the cheapest on the market.

Disadvantages of ABS filaments

Although they are made of an inexpensive but high-quality material, ABS filaments also have some disadvantages:

• • Photosensitive material: May discolor over time due to sunlight.

• • It requires a fairly high melting point temperature, between 210 and 250 degrees.

• • It requires a heated bed and this aspect makes it more difficult to cool the first layers of the print.

  • When printing, ABS filaments emit chemical fumes, which are problematic for people with respiratory problems or young children.

In which sectors is the use of ABS 3D filaments recommended?

Medical equipment

• • Nebulizers that generate aerosols to improve breathing;

• • Compressors for medical use.

• • Tracheal cannulas.

• • Medical orthoses.

In architecture

• • Chairs, especially bar stools.

• • Soap dispensers.

• • Solar lamps.

• • Gravity grids.

• • Door grills.

• • Paper dispensers.

Accessories and more

• • Suitcase.

• • Protective bicycle helmets.

• • Lantern.

• • LEGO games.

• • Toys.

• • General use goods (telephones).

Home appliances

• • Kitchen appliance casings.

• • Vacuum cleaner housings.

• • Home appliance control panels.

EXTRUSION

• • Do you like it

• • Shower cabins.

• • Roofs.

• • Pieces of furniture.

• • Interior of the refrigerator.

• • Luggage.

Why your 3D printer needs to use ABS filament

In preparing to use ABS in your 3D printer, you need to secure a heated bed, an essential component for successful printing, and invest in a good bed adhesive.

If you really want to take advantage of all the advantages that this material has to offer, the best thing is to invest in a 3D printer made specifically for handling ABS filaments and which can lead to favorable results right from the first use.

The printers that work very well with ABS filaments are those that work on this technology Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM); this technology allows the addition of molten material – thermoplastic polymers – layer by layer. With the help of this technology, you get quality thermoplastic parts and prototypes in a short time.

What is post-processing of 3D printed objects with ABS filaments

The objects resulting from 3D printing rely on a support layer that must be removed manually; this layer represents the foundation of horizontal objects/surfaces, playing a fundamental role on which to build them. Depending on the hardness of the object there can be both an internal and an external holder – they can also be placed separately. The objects retain their shine even after post-processing, thanks to the properties of ABS. It is not recommended to polish these objects with abrasive materials, because they can damage them, and acetone is the most reliable ally. Items can also be painted or varnished.

Frequently asked questions

To clear up any confusion related to ABS filaments, we present answers to the most common questions related to ABS filaments:

Are ABS filaments sustainable and biodegradable?

ABS filaments are not exactly sustainable or biodegradable. But they are also recyclable recycling technology consists of: color selection, grinding, then washing.

Is ABS filament toxic?

ABS is harmless in solid form and does not contain agents that could cause serious disease. Like most plastics, it can be toxic if inhaled and/or absorbed through the skin or eyes as vapors. It is also not recommended to use it as a food storage/packaging container.

How are ABS 3D filaments stored?

ABS has the property of absorbing water from the air over time, making objects impossible to print. For this reason, 3D ABS filaments must be stored in a dry place, away from humidity. If the filaments swell or «boil», it is a sign that they have absorbed water and are compromised.

ABS vs PLA filaments

An alternative to ABS filaments are PLA filaments – polylactic acid – and this is one of the most popular materials for 3D printing. Both are soft and malleable materials when hot, becoming rigid only at low temperatures.

• • Part Accuracy: Both can create dimensionally accurate parts. PLA can warp less (if properly cooled), making printing easier.

• • Strength: ABS has improved ductility compared to PLA; the latter is used for rapid prototyping and ABS can be used for final applications;

• • Post-processing: ABS is easier to grind and finish, and its machining is a simpler and less time-consuming process. On the other hand, PLA filaments require more attention and care to achieve the desired results.

• • Heat Resistance: For high temperature applications, ABS filaments are more suitable than PLA filaments;

• • Biodegradability: ABS is a recyclable material, but not biodegradable. PLA will degrade in 50 days (in industrial composters) or 48 months (in water).