ABS Filament – Material Overview

At Print Layer UK, ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is used for applications requiring higher temperature resistance, improved toughness, and long-term durability. ABS is a petroleum-based thermoplastic commonly used in industrial and consumer products where mechanical strength and thermal stability are critical.

ABS is selected for parts that must withstand elevated temperatures, repeated mechanical stress, or demanding operating environments. Its balance of rigidity and impact resistance makes it suitable for functional components that would exceed the limitations of PLA or PETG.

From a manufacturing standpoint, ABS requires controlled printing conditions due to its higher thermal contraction. Parts are produced using optimised print settings, heated build plates, and enclosed printing environments to minimise warping and ensure consistent layer bonding.

Technical Characteristics

• Higher heat resistance compared to PLA and PETG
• Good impact strength and toughness
• Rigid, durable material suitable for long-term use
• Can be post-processed (sanding, acetone vapour smoothing)
• Good machinability for secondary operations

Typical Applications

• Enclosures and housings
• Automotive and mechanical components
• Tooling, jigs, and fixtures
• Functional parts exposed to elevated temperatures

Material Limitations

ABS has a higher tendency to warp during printing and requires a heated bed and enclosure for optimal results. It emits noticeable odour during printing and is less suitable for unventilated indoor environments. ABS is not biodegradable and is less UV-resistant than some alternative materials without additional treatment.

Print Layer UK Quality Notes

All ABS parts produced by Print Layer UK are printed under controlled conditions using calibrated equipment to ensure proper layer adhesion, dimensional accuracy, and structural integrity. Due to the nature of ABS, minor surface variations may occur and are considered normal for FDM-manufactured components.