With the rise of 3D printing, the use of ABS plastics for the production of parts and products has become increasingly popular. ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, a thermoplastic polymer used in injection molding, extrusion processes, and even 3D printing.
It is different from other materials used in 3D printing because it is strong, lasts a long time, and can be melted and reshaped without significant chemical degradation.
This recyclable plastic has gained widespread usage in 3D printing due to its impressive properties, such as durability, flexibility, and resistance to heat and chemicals. In this post, we will cover the fundamentals of ABS 3D printing, including how it functions and the advantages it offers.
What is ABS 3D Printing?
ABS is a thermoplastic that comes out of 3D printers as filaments. ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. It is a copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene, with styrene added for better impact resistance. ABS was first invented in 1941 by DuPont and has been used in a wide range of products, from Legos to car parts.
ABS 3D printing is a type of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), where the printer deposits melted ABS filament onto a build platform in thin layers. After each layer is put down, the printer lowers the platform so that the next layer can be put down on top of the last one. This process is repeated until the object is complete.
ABS has a high melting point (210 degrees Celsius) and good mechanical properties, making it a popular choice for 3D printing. It is also relatively inexpensive and easy to print. However, ABS can be brittle and sometimes warps during printing.
ABS 3D printing is the process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file. It works by melting plastic filament and depositing it layer by layer to create a three-dimensional object. ABS is a type of plastic that is commonly used in 3D printing because it is solid and durable.
The Production Process of ABS Printing
The production process of ABS printing is very similar to the production process of other 3D printing filaments. First, the 3D printer must be calibrated using a test print. Then, the CAD design is sliced into thin layers that are the width of the printer’s nozzle.
Next, each layer is assigned a color based on the filament used. The printer will then print one layer at a time by heating the filament to its melting point and putting it down according to the CAD design.
ABS Materials for 3D Printing
The most common materials used in ABS 3D printing are ABS filament, an extruder, and a printer. ABS filament is a thermoplastic that is melted and pushed through a nozzle to create the desired shape.
ABS filament comes in various colors and can be used to create a wide range of objects.
The extruder heats the filament to its melting point, which allows it to be easily molded. The printer then uses a layer-by-layer printing technique to create the final product.
Other materials that can be used in ABS 3D printing include PLA filament, PVA filament, and HIPS filament, and ABS printers include PLA (polylactic acid), PETT (polyethylene terephthalate), and Nylon.
ABS and PLA Filament
There are a few key differences between ABS printing and PLS printing.
- ABS is stronger and more durable than PLA, making it better suited for producing parts and products that need to withstand wear and tear.
- ABS also has a higher melting point than PLA, meaning it can be printed at a higher temperature without warping or curling.
- PLA filament is made from cornstarch, and ABS filament is made from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. PLA is a biodegradable plastic that can be composted, while ABS is not.
- ABS is stronger and more durable than PLA, making it better suited for products that need to withstand wear and tear.
- ABS is less prone to shrinking than PLA, which can cause prints to come loose from the build platform. ABS prints are also easier to sand and paint than PLA prints.
- ABS filament requires a higher temperature to melt than PLA filament. It is also more expensive than PLA filament.
- PLA filament is a biodegradable, corn-based plastic that is popular among 3D printing enthusiasts because it is easy to print with and has a low melting point. PLA is not as strong as ABS, but it is more flexible and less likely to warp.
PLA vs. ABS – What’s the difference between 3D Printing? (in-depth) – Bing video
Limitations of ABS 3D Printing
- Prolonged exposure to sunlight can harm ABS materials, reducing the quality of a print. Therefore, selecting a UV-resistant filament, such as ASA, is preferable for applications that will be directly exposed to ultraviolet light.
- ABS filament is not as strong as PLA filament, so it is not recommended for prints that will be used in a high-stress environment. For instance, ABS is more likely to break if it is used for a tool or part that will be subjected to a lot of force.
- ABS does not have high heat resistance, so it’s not the best choice for parts that will be exposed to a lot of heat or extreme temperatures.
- ABS filament requires higher printing temperatures and more time to print, and the cost associated with 3D printing with ABS can be significantly higher.
- ABS plastic emits a strong odor when heated, making it unsuitable for use in enclosed spaces.
- ABS 3D printing can be an excellent choice for projects that require some strength and heat resistance, but PLA is often the better option for more delicate prints or those that need to stand up to high temperatures and stress
The Advantages of Using ABS in 3D Printing
The advantages of using ABS in 3D printing are:
- It has a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it a good choice for objects that need to be strong but lightweight.
- Durable and can withstand high temperatures.
- The likelihood of warping is low, and it is simple to print with.
- It is a cost-effective material and can be made into many different colors.
- Because of its strong chemical resistance, it is perfect for use in objects that must be exposed to harsh chemicals.
- The fact that it has excellent dimensional stability ensures that it will maintain its shape over time.
- Its smooth finish makes it an attractive choice for finished products.
- Sanding and painting 3D prints are simple, allowing for customization.
- Recyclable and biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly choice for 3D printing projects.
Disadvantages of Using ABS in 3D printing
The disadvantages of using ABS in 3D printing are:
- When heated, it gives off a potent smell that makes it unfit for use in confined spaces.
- It is not as strong as PLA filament, so it is not recommended for prints that will be used in a high-stress environment.
- As a result of its low heat resistance, it is not the ideal material for parts that will be subjected to intense heat or cold.
- ABS filament requires higher printing temperatures and more time to print, and the cost associated with 3D printing with ABS can be significantly higher.
FAQS for What is ABS 3D Printing
ABS filament is more difficult to print with than PLA filament because it requires a higher temperature to melt and has a higher chance of warping. However, the benefits of using ABS in 3D printing include its high strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and easy customization.
BS can be printed relatively quickly, with standard prints taking 10-15 minutes. However, larger or more complex prints can take significantly longer.
If you want to print using ABS, you’ll need a temperature-controlled bed. The recommended bed temperature for printing with ABS is 110 degrees.
ABS can be printed on glass, but it is not recommended because it has a high chance of warping. If you choose to print on glass, ensure the surface is level and heated to the correct temperature.
ABS plastic will start to get soft at around 105 degrees Celsius and 221 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are using ABS filament in a 3D printer, ensure the temperature is set above this threshold to avoid print failures.
Final Thoughts
ABS is a 3D printing material that is strong, durable, and heat-resistant. It’s often used for products that need to withstand high temperatures, such as car parts and electrical components.
While ABS does have some drawbacks, it emits harmful fumes when heated, and it is an excellent option if you are looking for a strong and durable 3D-printed product. ABS remains one of the most popular 3D printing materials.
