ABS

What is ABS and why choose it?

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a widely used industrial thermoplastic, from LEGO® bricks to automotive parts. In 3D printing, it is prized for its superior mechanical properties, particularly its temperature resistance and durability.

 
1. High thermal resistance: retains its shape and strength up to around 100°C, much higher than PLA (60°C) or PETG (80°C).

 

2. Excellent impact resistance: Highly durable and impact-resistant, it bends before it breaks.

 

3. Easy post-treatment: can be easily sanded, drilled and, above all, smoothed with acetone vapour for a perfectly smooth surface finish.

 

4. Longevity: High durability for parts subject to wear and tear.

Essential technical characteristics

 
• Available diameters: 1.75mm & (2.85mm on request - 10kg min)

 

• Extrusion temperature: 230-260°C

 

• Plateau temperature: 90-110°C (Essential)

Mastering ABS filament printing

ABS offers high performance, but is more demanding to print than PLA or PETG. It is sensitive to temperature variations, which can cause warping and cracking between layers.

Frequently Asked Questions

 
1. Is an enclosed printer necessary? Yes, we strongly recommend it. A cabinet maintains a warm, stable ambient temperature, preventing the sudden cooling that causes warping and cracking.

 

2. How to manage odors? ABS gives off a hot plastic odor and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during printing. It is imperative to print in a well-ventilated room or use a filtration system (carbon filter).

 

3. How do I ensure adhesion to the platen? A high-temperature heating plate (90-110°C) is mandatory. The use of an adhesion solution (glue, lacquer, or "ABS juice") is also recommended.

Common ABS applications

 
• Functional parts exposed to heat (e.g. fan supports)

 

• Automotive parts (brackets, housings)

 

• Durable prototypes under stress

 

• Electronics enclosures

 

• Objects to be smoothed with acetone

Printing tips: Prerequisites for ABS

 
1. Controlled environment: Always use a 3D printer with a closed housing to keep the heat in.

 

2. Heated tray: Preheat your tray to between 90°C and 110°C. Don't skimp on grip (a brim or raft may be necessary).

 

3. No ventilation: Switch off the room cooling fan (except for bridges or extreme overhangs). ABS should cool as slowly as possible.

 

4. Room ventilation: Make sure the room where you're printing is well ventilated to remove fumes.

Quick comparison: ABS vs. other common filaments

Francofil's commitment to quality and French manufacturing

Our ABS filament is entirely manufactured and controlled in our workshop in Normandy. We use high-quality ABS granules to guarantee a filament with a constant diameter and reliable mechanical properties, giving you the best possible base for your technical prints. Choosing Francofil means opting for a local partner who controls production from A to Z.