ABS is a favored material for SLA 3D printing due to its excellent mechanical properties, high temperature resistance and easy post-processing. Compared with PLA and PETG, ABS has a balance between heat resistance and resilience. While ABS is easier to store and post-process than PETG, PETG emits less odor when printing and reduces warping. Despite its demanding printing requirements, ABS remains popular in the 3D printing community due to its affordability and versatility.
Have you considered using ABS material in your 3D printing projects? ABS has many advantages such as excellent mechanical properties and high temperature resistance. It also allows for easy post-processing. While printing with ABS can be more challenging compared to other materials, it remains popular due to its affordability and versatility. In this article, we explore the advantages of ABS and delve into its successful implementation in 3D printing.
Print Temperature:
In order to print ABS effectively, make sure the temperature range is 220-250 °C. Higher temperatures can improve layer adhesion and part strength, but too much heat can cause filament problems. Use a temperature tower to get the best print quality and find the right ABS filament temperature.
Bed Temperature:
For successful ABS filament printing, a heated bed is critical for consistent heat and gradual cooling. This minimizes layer separation and warping. Generally, a bed temperature of 95-110 °C works well, but experimenting with lower temperatures is recommended. See the filament manufacturer's recommendations for best results.
Enclosure:
Enclosures are critical to successful ABS printing. It maintains a steady print temperature, allowing ABS parts to cool gradually and preventing rapid cooling from surrounding airflow. If ABS printing is your top priority, consider a printer with an enclosure.
Bed Adhesion
ABS paste is made by dissolving ABS plastic in acetone and provides a strong bonding surface for ABS parts during the printing process. Also, glue sticks that contain PVA (such as Elmer's glue and Magigoo) are effective alternatives. Edges and rafts are good for larger parts, edges prevent warping and rafts help with bonding, although they use more material and time. Rafts are especially beneficial for prints with lots of straight sides and a large surface area.
Print Speed
Printing ABS parts at a slower speed allows the bottom layer to cool properly, reducing the risk of layer splitting and cracking. The best range of ABS printing speed is 30-50mm/sec, and the first layer is best kept below 30mm/sec for better adhesion.
Part Cooling Fan
For successful ABS printing, avoid part cooling fans as they may cause inconsistent layer temperatures and separation.
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