[3D Printing] Guide to Using ABS and PC Filaments
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Polycarbonate (PC) are two high-performance filaments commonly used in technical and industrial 3D printing.
These materials are known for their excellent strength, durability, and heat resistance, making them suitable for high-performance applications such as mechanical parts, test models, prototypes, and even lighting fixtures.
However, both ABS and PC present printing challenges, particularly regarding bed adhesion, warping, and delamination. To address these issues, many manufacturers recommend using adhesives on the build plate and utilizing enclosed printers. Depending on the manufacturer, a temperature-controlled printing environment is also recommended to achieve optimal results.
While ABS and PC have commonalities, they each possess unique characteristics. ABS is valued for its impact resistance and cost-effectiveness, whereas PC offers superior strength and transparency.
In this article, we will compare the characteristics, benefits, and limitations of ABS and PC filaments and provide tips for selecting the ideal material for your 3D printing projects.
Material Properties
To choose the best material for your project, let's compare the two. We will look at strength, such as tensile strength and impact resistance, as well as performance under thermal stress, such as Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) and Glass Transition Temperature (Tg).
We will also cover hygroscopy and explain the absorption of moisture and its effects.
This information is primarily based on manufacturer data sheets and will clarify the characteristics and suitable applications for each filament.
Strength
Impact strength indicates a material's ability to absorb energy from sudden forces and is crucial in load-bearing applications to prevent cracking and breakage.
PC is known for its excellent impact resistance, but according to data sheets from UltiMaker and Polymaker, ABS has a slight advantage in impact strength.
(Target products: PolyLite ABS, PolyMax PC, UltiMaker ABS Series, PC)
PolyMax PC is a specialized product series with higher impact resistance, making it slightly superior to PolyLite ABS.
However, when comparing PolyLite PC and PolyLite ABS, the traditional performance difference trend is observed.
Due to these properties, ABS is suitable for applications that must withstand sudden impacts, though PC is also a very capable option.
We will also cover hygroscopy and explain the absorption of moisture and its effects.
This information is primarily based on manufacturer data sheets and will clarify the characteristics and suitable applications for each filament.
Strength
Impact strength indicates a material's ability to absorb energy from sudden forces and is crucial in load-bearing applications to prevent cracking and breakage.
PC is known for its excellent impact resistance, but according to data sheets from UltiMaker and Polymaker, ABS has a slight advantage in impact strength.
(Target products: PolyLite ABS, PolyMax PC, UltiMaker ABS Series, PC)
PolyMax PC is a specialized product series with higher impact resistance, making it slightly superior to PolyLite ABS.
However, when comparing PolyLite PC and PolyLite ABS, the traditional performance difference trend is observed.
Due to these properties, ABS is suitable for applications that must withstand sudden impacts, though PC is also a very capable option.
Heat Resistance
Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) is a key indicator of how well a material can resist deformation under a specified load at high temperatures.
According to material data for the UltiMaker S series, the heat resistance of ABS is 87°C, making it suitable for applications in moderate temperature environments.
PC surpasses ABS in this regard, with a heat resistance of 111°C. It is suitable for parts exposed to higher thermal stress, such as components used on production lines or in heated environments.
Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) indicates the temperature at which a material shifts from a hard, glassy state to a softer, more flexible state.
According to the aforementioned data sheets, the Tg of ABS is 100.5°C, which is slightly lower than the PC Tg of 107.7°C.
Although the difference in Tg is small, the higher temperature threshold of PC confirms its superior performance in high-temperature environments.
Overall, PC has better heat resistance than ABS.
With its higher HDT and Tg, it is a more reliable choice for applications requiring thermal stability and resistance to deformation.
While ABS can withstand moderate heat, it is less suitable for use in high-temperature environments.
Hygroscopy
Hygroscopy refers to a material's ability to absorb moisture from the surrounding environment, which significantly impacts 3D printing quality and performance.
Because hygroscopy affects extrusion stability, layer adhesion, and overall surface finish, it is important to store hygroscopic filaments properly.
The hygroscopy of ABS is moderate, so storage requirements are not overly strict.
Standard measures, such as storing it in a sealed bag or container with desiccant, are usually sufficient to maintain print quality over a long period.
On the other hand, PC is highly hygroscopic and requires careful handling.
To prevent moisture absorption, it must be stored in a sealed container with desiccant.
If exposed to a humid environment, dry the filament according to the manufacturer's instructions to restore optimal printing performance and prevent defects such as bubbles or poor layer adhesion.
Because hygroscopy affects extrusion stability, layer adhesion, and overall surface finish, it is important to store hygroscopic filaments properly.
The hygroscopy of ABS is moderate, so storage requirements are not overly strict.
Standard measures, such as storing it in a sealed bag or container with desiccant, are usually sufficient to maintain print quality over a long period.
On the other hand, PC is highly hygroscopic and requires careful handling.
To prevent moisture absorption, it must be stored in a sealed container with desiccant.
If exposed to a humid environment, dry the filament according to the manufacturer's instructions to restore optimal printing performance and prevent defects such as bubbles or poor layer adhesion.
Printing
While these are not the most difficult materials to use for 3D printing, producing high-quality parts with ABS and PC requires specific procedures to ensure a smooth process.
While each manufacturer provides specific settings suitable for their products, here are some reference settings and tips for printing.
Nozzle Temperature
ABS prints best at temperatures between 220–270°C, whereas PC requires a higher temperature range of 250–280°C to achieve optimal extrusion and adhesion.
Regarding nozzle material, you can basically use any type, including standard brass nozzles.
However, this does not apply to composite materials. Materials infused with carbon fiber or similar additives require higher printing temperatures and/or higher wear resistance.
While each manufacturer provides specific settings suitable for their products, here are some reference settings and tips for printing.
Nozzle Temperature
ABS prints best at temperatures between 220–270°C, whereas PC requires a higher temperature range of 250–280°C to achieve optimal extrusion and adhesion.
Regarding nozzle material, you can basically use any type, including standard brass nozzles.
However, this does not apply to composite materials. Materials infused with carbon fiber or similar additives require higher printing temperatures and/or higher wear resistance.
Heated Bed
For ABS, the heated bed temperature must be maintained between 90–110°C to minimize warping.
PC requires a similar temperature range of 90–105°C to achieve stable adhesion and layer alignment.
Adhesion
Depending on the type of build plate surface, such as glass, an adhesive may be necessary to ensure ABS or PC adheres firmly.
Conversely, surfaces like PEI-textured plates can keep prints in place if properly cleaned and the chamber is heated to the optimal temperature.
Enclosure
An enclosure is highly effective for ABS printing, as it prevents deformation caused by temperature fluctuations.
For PC, especially with large prints, an enclosure is critical to prevent delamination and ensure stable results.
However, ensure that the printer's electronics are kept cool or are located outside the enclosure.
Also, be sure to preheat the chamber before starting the print, which is especially important for PC.
Cooling
For both ABS and PC, cooling fans should be turned off.
This minimizes uneven cooling and prevents issues such as delamination and cracking.
However, if the chamber temperature is set high (e.g., 50–60°C), running the part cooling fan at about 40% speed can help with features like bridges, which might sag or fail to print properly without cooling.
Post-Processing
ABS can be smoothed with acetone, resulting in a glossy finish and potentially increasing part strength.
PC is also compatible with acetone, but smoothing PC parts in this way is not standard.
Sanding and polishing are generally used for post-processing PC prints. Additionally, annealing is often recommended to achieve optimal mechanical properties. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations.
Filaments
Many manufacturers offer ABS and PC. Here, we have selected three of each from popular brands to accommodate various budgets and applications, ranging from hobbyists to professionals.
Polymaker PolyLite ABS
A cost-effective and reliable filament designed to meet everyday 3D printing needs.
According to its data sheet, this material from Polymaker provides excellent strength and durability, making it suitable for functional prototypes, mechanical parts, and general-purpose applications.
PolyLite ABS is known for its good layer adhesion, making it accessible to both beginners and professionals.
Bambu Lab ABS
Bambu Lab’s ABS is a great choice for prototyping, producing strong, durable, and reliable prints.
According to the manufacturer, it is formulated to minimize warping and ensure good layer adhesion, making it suitable for functional prototypes and complex designs.
UltiMaker ABS
UltiMaker ABS is a high-quality filament featuring a premium finish, low warping, and excellent layer adhesion.
Designed for professional use, it delivers reliable performance in the production of durable prototypes, functional parts, and engineering models.
According to UltiMaker, its optimized formula is suitable for demanding applications, providing stable and precise print results.
Polymaker PolyMax PC
A cost-effective polycarbonate filament with excellent overall performance.
According to the manufacturer, it combines strength, durability, and heat resistance, making it suitable for functional prototypes, mechanical parts, and engineering applications.
Compared to PolyLite PC, PolyMax PC has higher impact resistance.
Bambu Lab PC
Bambu Lab PC offers excellent strength and high heat resistance, making it ideal for demanding applications such as functional parts and engineering prototypes.
Its user-friendly formula allows for easy printing, minimizing warping while achieving reliable and precise results.
According to Bambu Lab, it is suitable for a wide range of users, from professionals to hobbyists.
UltiMaker PC
UltiMaker PC series is a high-performance filament known for its superior strength and ability to maintain dimensional stability when exposed to temperatures up to 110°C.
According to the manufacturer, this polycarbonate filament is designed for professional use and is suitable for manufacturing durable, heat-resistant parts. As such, it is ideal for demanding engineering applications.
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3DMart Japan K.K.
Tokyo Distribution Center Center Bldg. 407
6-1-1 Heiwajima, Ota-ku, Tokyo 143-0006
03-4332-9828
client@3dmart.co.jp
https://www.3dmart.co.jp/