Injection Molding vs 3D Printing: Choose the Best Method for Your Project
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ABS 3D Printing Service
Prototyping or production, our ABS 3D printing ensures precision, durability, and fast delivery for your custom parts. Lead time as fast as 1 day.
ABS in 3D Printing
ABS is a thermoplastic polymer with high impact resistance, strength, and toughness. It is suitable for 3D printing with ABS prototypes and functional parts, which are common in the automotive and consumer electronics industries.
3D printing ABS filaments involves designing the 3D model while considering wall thickness, overhangs, support structures, etc. Afterward, the model is imported into slicing software, which generates the G-code file instructing the 3D printer to print the ABS filament.
ABS is a common 3D printing material because of its flow rate, ensuring consistent extrusion and layer adhesion during printing. Furthermore, it melts at 220-250°C, the temperatures achievable by many standard 3D printers.
ABS is also thermally stable, reducing warping and deformation on a heated bed. It also adheres to itself layer by layer, resulting in solid and durable prints.
| Price: | $ | Available ABS at RapidDirect: | ABS-Like Resin Black, Resin Creamy White, Resin Yellow (High Toughness), ResinTranslucent, ResinTransparent |
|---|---|
| Lead Time: | < 4 days |
| Wall Thickness: | 0.6 mm |
| Tolerances: | ISO2768-C |
| Max Part Size: | 300 mm x 300 mm x 300 mm |
Plastic ABS Properties
| Properties | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | 13.0 - 65.0 MPa (1890 - 9430 psi) |
| Flexural Modulus | 0.200 - 5.50 GPa (29.0 - 798 ksi) |
| Impact Resistance (Izod Impact, Notched) | 0.380 - 10.3 J/cm (0.712 - 19.3 ft-lb/in) |
| Maximum Service Temperature | 0.380 - 10.3 J/cm (0.712 - 19.3 ft-lb/in) |
| Chemical Formula | (C8H8·C4H6·C3H3N)n |
| Chemical Resistance | Resistant to aqueous acids, alkalis, concentrated hydrochloric and phosphoric acids, and animal, vegetable, and mineral oils, but weak to carbon tetrachloride, aromatic hydrocarbons, and concentrated sulfuric and nitric acids |
| Glass Transition Temperature | 108 - 109 °C (226 - 228 °F) |
| Heat Deflection Temperature | 88-89°C |
| Melting Temperature | 170 - 320 °C (338 - 608 °F) |
| 3D Printing Speed | 240 mm/sec (9.45 in/sec) |
Pros and Cons of ABS 3D Printing
ABS plastic offers many benefits that make it suitable for 3D printing processes. However, there are some of its downsides to consider before choosing it for any project.
Pros
- ABS parts have high impact resistance and toughness
- 3D-printed ABS parts are easy to sand, paint, and glue, which provides versatility in finishing and assembly.
- ABS can withstand higher temperatures compared to other 3D printing materials
- ABS is a cheap 3D printing material that offers a good balance between cost and performance.
Cons
- 3D-printed ABS parts tend to warp and shrink during cooling
- It emits fumes which can be unpleasant and potentially harmful during heating
- Its limited resistance to certain chemicals may restrict its use in chemically aggressive environments.
- ABS is prone to absorbing moisture from the environment
Applications of 3D Printed ABS Parts
3D printed ABS parts are widely used across various industries, including:
- Automotive Industry: Dashboard assemblies, door panels, mirror housings, interior trim components
- Consumer Electronics: Housings for remote controls, computer keyboards, smartphone cases
- Industrial Applications: Tool handles, protective headgear, housings for machinery
- Household Goods: Vacuum cleaner parts, kitchen appliance components, storage containers
FAQs
A 3D-printed ABS part can last many years with proper storage in a cool, dry place, avoiding prolonged exposure to UV and proper usage. Factors such as exposure to sunlight, chemicals, and mechanical stress can affect their longevity.
Yes, 3D-printed ABS parts can degrade over time, especially when exposed to UV light and harsh environmental conditions. However, you can avoid this by adding UV stabilizers to the material to enhance its resistance to degradation. Furthermore, regular maintenance and proper storage can also help mitigate the effects of environmental exposure.
3D Printing Resources
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