What is ABS filament?
ABS is an oil-based thermoplastic that softens when heated. ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, but we usually just call it ABS. It is printed at temperatures between 220°C and 260°C. Because ABS is very strong, slightly flexible, and heat-resistant, it has a wide range of applications.
What are the benefits of ABS?
Strong and durable
ABS is known for its strength and durability. It’s a great choice for functional prototypes and parts that need to withstand daily use and wear and tear.
Heat resistant up to approximately 90°C
ABS begins to deform or soften at temperatures between 90°C and 105°C, making it suitable for applications where heat is a factor.
Chemical resistant
ABS is resistant to many chemicals, making it suitable for use in industrial environments.
ABS is resistant to:
- Water (with short exposure)
- Soap
- Aliphatic hydrocarbons (e.g., gasoline, diesel)
- Mineral oils
- Alkaline solutions (e.g., ammonia)
ABS is sensitive to:
- Aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g., toluene, xylene)
- Chlorinated hydrocarbons (e.g., dichloromethane, trichloroethylene)
- Esters (e.g., acetone, methyl ethyl ketone)
- Ketones (e.g., acetone, MEK)
- Acetates (e.g., ethyl acetate, methyl acetate)
Post-processing
You can easily post-process ABS after printing. Think of sanding, drilling, sawing, and painting. This provides extra flexibility for customizing the final product.
Versatile
Due to the combination of strength, heat resistance, and chemical resistance, ABS is suitable for many applications. Think of electronics housings, household appliances, and mechanical parts.
What are the disadvantages of ABS?
Less environmentally friendly than PLA
ABS is derived from petroleum. As a result, it is less environmentally friendly than PLA. PLA is made from renewable plant-based sources such as sugarcane and corn.
Not resistant to UV radiation
ABS is susceptible to degradation from UV radiation from the sun. Prolonged exposure leads to discoloration, brittleness, and degradation. This causes you to lose the benefits of the filament, such as its strength.
ABS vs. other 3D printing materials
ABS vs. PLA
While PLA is biodegradable and made from plant-based sources, ABS is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable source.
ABS is generally stronger and more durable than PLA. It is also resistant to higher temperatures than PLA. This makes ABS a better choice for functional parts.
ABS vs. PETG
PETG is made from thermoplastic polyester, a polymer derived from petroleum or renewable sources like corn starch, depending on the manufacturer's choice.
PETG shrinks less than ABS, making it easier to print without a heated print bed. It also offers better layer adhesion and is less prone to delamination (the print falling apart).
ABS is generally stronger and more durable than PETG, but PETG has better impact resistance. When it comes to temperature resistance, ABS wins, and it also takes the lead in chemical resistance.
ABS vs. ASA
ASA is more resistant to UV radiation, heat, and weather than ABS. Unlike ABS, ASA won't easily discolor or become brittle due to sunlight and other weather conditions. Furthermore, ASA is more resistant to chemicals like acids and bases than ABS.
Although ABS offers some resistance to these factors, it is less effective than ASA. The mechanical properties of both filaments are comparable.
Another advantage of ASA is that it is less prone to shrinking and warping than ABS. Additionally, ABS requires a higher print temperature and a well-ventilated room due to the fumes released during printing. This makes ASA a better choice in terms of printability.
In terms of finish, ASA produces better results after printing than ABS. While ABS can also create smooth surfaces, they are usually not as nice as those of ASA.
So, ASA seems like an excellent choice compared to ABS, right? Unfortunately, the price of ASA is generally slightly higher than that of ABS.
What is ABS suitable for?
ABS is often viewed as the alternative to PLA. ABS is therefore a good filament choice for functional parts, engineering applications, and components that need to withstand high temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ABS and PLA?
ABS is generally stronger and tougher, making it suitable for applications where durability and impact resistance are required. PLA is slightly less strong, but it is more flexible and less likely to break when bent.
Can ABS be used outdoors?
ABS tends to degrade with prolonged outdoor use. This can lead to brittleness and discoloration of the material.
Can ABS be post-processed?
Yes, ABS is well-suited for post-processing.
What are good alternatives to ABS?
PLA and PETG are good alternatives to ABS.
Looking to have something printed in ABS? Use our 3D printing service.
