Material library / Plastic

ABS

Tough, heat-resistant, and post-processing friendly.

40 MPa

Tensile Strength

2.3 GPa

Flexural Modulus

98–100 °C

Heat Deflection Temp

0.1–0.3 mm

Layer Resolution

1.04 g/cm³

Density

8 %

Elongation at Break

0.6–0.8 %

Shrinkage

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a classic engineering thermoplastic, widely used across automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial applications. It offers higher heat resistance than PLA and can be smoothed with acetone for near-injection-moulded surface finishes.

ABS is an excellent choice when you need functional parts that will be exposed to elevated temperatures or mechanical stress.

Advantages

  • Can be acetone-smoothed for injection-moulded surface finish
  • Higher heat resistance than PLA or PETG
  • Impact resistant and tough under mechanical loads
  • Good machinability - easy to drill, tap, and sand

Limitations

  • Prone to warping - enclosed printer strongly recommended
  • Emits styrene fumes during printing - requires adequate ventilation

Applications

  • Automotive interior parts
  • Consumer electronics housings
  • Tooling jigs
  • Snap-fit enclosures
  • Heat-exposed components
  • Master patterns for casting

Printing tips

Print ABS at 230–250 °C with a bed temperature of 100–110 °C. An enclosed printer is strongly recommended to prevent warping. Apply ABS slurry or a specialised bed adhesive. Avoid drafts and cooling fans at full speed during printing.

ABS FAQ

What is acetone smoothing?
ABS dissolves slightly in acetone vapour. By exposing finished prints to acetone in a sealed container, layer lines fuse together giving a smooth, glossy surface that approaches injection-moulded quality.

Related materials

Ready to print in ABS? The quote page prices it against your actual geometry, so you know the real cost before you commit.

Upload a file & quote ABS
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