HIPS

HIPS 1.75mm 3D Printer Filament

• Characteristics: Lightweight, strong, and often used as a support material with ABS due to its solubility in limonene.
• Applications: Commonly used in dual-extruder setups where it can be used as a support structure that can be dissolved after printing.

HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene) is a versatile thermoplastic filament used in 3D printing, known for its strength, durability, and unique properties as a support material. Here’s a comprehensive overview of HIPS filament:

Characteristics

• Support Material: HIPS is commonly used as a support material in conjunction with other filaments such as ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene). It is particularly valued for its ability to be easily dissolved in limonene, making it ideal for removing supports from complex prints.
• Strength and Toughness: HIPS is known for its high impact resistance and toughness. It is stronger and more resilient than standard polystyrene, making it suitable for functional and structural parts.
• Printability: HIPS has properties similar to ABS, including good layer adhesion and strength. It prints well at moderate temperatures, typically around 230-250°C, and adheres effectively to heated print beds.
• Dimensional Stability: It has good dimensional stability, meaning it maintains its shape and dimensions well during and after printing. This is beneficial for producing accurate and precise parts.
• Surface Finish: HIPS prints with a smooth surface finish, making it suitable for applications where a clean, polished appearance is desirable. It can also be sanded and painted easily.

Applications

• Support Structures: HIPS is frequently used as a support material in dual-extrusion 3D printing setups. It is chosen for its compatibility with ABS and its ability to be easily removed using a solvent.
• Functional Parts: Due to its strength and toughness, HIPS is used to produce functional parts, prototypes, and mechanical components that require durability and impact resistance.
• Prototyping: HIPS is used in prototyping to create strong and accurate models. Its ability to be easily post-processed and finished makes it suitable for creating detailed and functional prototypes.
• Consumer Products: In consumer products, HIPS is used to manufacture durable and lightweight items such as custom tools, protective casings, and components for various applications.

Printing Considerations

• Print Temperature: HIPS typically prints at temperatures between 230-250°C. The exact temperature may vary depending on the specific filament formulation and the printer used.
• Bed Temperature: A heated bed is recommended, usually set between 80-100°C. Proper bed adhesion is important to prevent warping and ensure successful prints.
• Enclosure: An enclosed print chamber can help maintain a stable temperature and reduce the risk of warping or delamination. HIPS is sensitive to temperature fluctuations and drafts.
• Cooling: Minimal cooling is generally recommended for HIPS to avoid issues such as warping or poor layer adhesion. Proper cooling settings should be used to maintain print quality.
• Solvent for Removal: HIPS supports are typically dissolved using limonene, a citrus-based solvent. Care should be taken when handling and using this solvent, as it should be used in a well-ventilated area.

Post-Processing

• Sanding and Painting: HIPS can be easily sanded and painted to achieve a smooth and polished finish. This makes it suitable for applications where aesthetic quality is important.
• Solvent Removal: For parts with HIPS supports, post-processing involves dissolving the support material in limonene. This process requires proper handling and disposal of the solvent.

Storage and Maintenance

• Moisture Sensitivity: HIPS is less sensitive to moisture compared to some other filaments but should still be stored in a dry, airtight container to maintain its quality and performance.
• Shelf Life: HIPS filament has a good shelf life when stored properly. It should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve its printing properties.

Environmental Impact

• Recyclability: HIPS is recyclable, but its recycling options may vary by location. It should be disposed of according to local recycling guidelines to minimize environmental impact.
• Biodegradability: HIPS is not biodegradable and can persist in the environment if not properly recycled. Efforts should be made to manage HIPS waste responsibly.

Summary

HIPS 3D printer filament is a robust and versatile material known for its strength, impact resistance, and suitability as a support material for ABS and other filaments. It is ideal for producing functional parts, prototypes, and consumer products that require durability and a smooth finish. Proper handling, including the use of a heated bed, careful cooling, and solvent-based support removal, is essential to achieve the best results with HIPS filament. While it is not biodegradable, its recyclability and performance make it a valuable material for various 3D printing applications.