Full Guide on Easy to Print ABS Filament

Easy to print ABS filament is another popular 3D printing material primarily because it is highly beneficial. In fact, ABS filament is the most sought 3D printing filament after PLA. It is durable and has a wide range of applications.

You’ll get to understand the following concepts by reading this article wholly:
● What exactly is easy to print ABS?
● Pros and cons of using ABS
● Where can you use ABS filament?
● Pro tips on how to print 3D models using easy to print ABS filament
What Exactly is Easy to Print ABS Filament?
Easy to print ABS is an upgraded version of the traditional ABS. This ABS filament retains the strength and durability of traditional ABS filament. It has an added advantage – you can easily print high-quality 3D models using this filament from a wide range of colors.

This filament’s high strength and chemical resistance make it ideal for outdoor usage. Its wide range of colors (including transparent versions) enables you to print glass-like material for outdoor tools, e.g., flashlights.

It is essential to note that this ABS filament is only usable with FDM 3D printers. Since it is easier to print 3D models using easy to print ABS, it is not necessary to use the printer’s enclosed chamber.

In addition, easy to print ABS has quick-post processing. You can easily get a uniform and smooth surface by treating the surface of this filament using acetone. This treatment is most beneficial for transparent 3D models.

Since ABS has a higher melting temperature than PLA, you can use PLA as a support material when printing complex 3D models. This method is used in dual extrusion FDM 3D printers.

What are the Pros and Cons of Using ABS Filament for 3D Printing
Pros

ABS filament certainly has a good share of advantages. Check them out:
● High strength and durability – This filament has excellent mechanical strength, which is ideal for outdoor activities. Since it is strong and durable, ABS filament can endure more stress which causes wear and tear.

● Low acquisition cost – One of the primary reasons the ABS filament is popular is its low cost. This thermoplastic filament is not expensive.

● Quick post-processing – After printing a 3D model, you may need to polish its surface to improve its appearance. You can use acetone or even join different parts using glue and additionally file and paint these 3D models.

● Excellent heat, water, chemical, and fire resistance.

● Unlike PLA thermoplastic, less oozing and stringing means a better 3D model finish.
Cons
Check out some of the downsides associated with using easy to print ABS:
● Failure to achieve proper temperature management will make the 3D model warp. It can additionally lose its dimensional accuracy.

● Using an FDM 3D printer’s heat bed is mandatory to prevent adhesion failure, which will undoubtedly cause warping and curling. The heat bed uses more energy.

● The thermoplastic filament may produce strong, pungent fume odors, which are dangerous to your health. Significant inhalation may require the consultation of a physician. Consider printing models in a well-ventilated room.

● Unlike its primary competitor (PLA), the ABS filament is not environmentally friendly. Consider using the proper methods of disposal as a way of becoming environmentally responsible.

Where Can You Use the Easy to Print ABS Filament?
● Automotive – Since ABS has good mechanical properties, it can be used to make functional prototypes in the automotive industry. In addition, this filament is light, meaning that cars will become more efficient on fuel.

● Toy – ABS is safe for printing 3D toys for children because it is not brittle. In addition, it can withstand abrasion because it is impact resistant.
● Sports equipment – again, its durability and strength come in handy when printing sports equipment, e.g., helmets, mouth guards, golf masks, etc.
● Pipes and fittings – since ABS has excellent chemical and water resistance, it can be used to print pipes and fittings prototypes. Its strength and lightweight also comes in handy here.
● You can also use ABS filament to print decorative household appliances thanks to the availability of its wide range of colors, e.g., vases.
What are the Best Practices to Employ when Printing Using ABS Filament?
ABS filament will indeed produce high-strength and quality 3D models when printed under the right conditions. Check out the two leading best practices that you need to use:

● Control printing temperature – ABS filaments are well known for having warping issues. If the printing temperature is low, the filament will shrink and contract, which will cause dimensional inaccuracy.

You can solve this problem by controlling your 3D printing temperature. While using the printer’s enclosed chamber is unnecessary, consider using it for taller 3D models. Also, ensure that the printer’s extruder and heat bed are set to the correct temperature.
● Print in a well-ventilated environment – ABS filaments produce strong, pungent odors during printing. These toxic fumes can harm your health, especially if the exposure is significant.

Consider printing ABS 3D models in a well-ventilated environment.
Final Thoughts on Easy to Print ABS
Easy to print ABS is a modified version of the traditional ABS filament. It is a popular 3D printing material primarily because of its low cost, high strength, heat, water, & chemical resistance, and lightweight.

It can print functional prototypes, toys, sports equipment, etc. However, you’ll need to pay extra attention to the printer’s printing temperature. Doing so will help you avoid warping and, by extension, dimensional inaccuracy.

You can also print 3D models using different colors, as this filament has a wide range of colors, including transparent versions.

Here’s the deal:

ABS filament remains one of the most popular 3D printing materials for FDM 3D printers. Consider using the tips outlined in this article to help you make your 3D printing process a success!