HIPS plastic

What is HIPS?

      Impact-resistant polystyrene (HIPS) is a copolymer that combines the hardness of polystyrene and the elasticity of rubber. In the world of industrial production, it is usually found in protective packaging and containers, such as CD cases.

      In the world of 3D printing, HIPS usually plays a different role. 3D printers can't print in the air. When printing attachments, some basic structure is required, and this is where HIPS is really indispensable. When combined with ABS in a dual-extruder printer, HIPS is an excellent auxiliary material (support material).

Additional information

     When printing complex products, print supports from the HIPS material. Dipping the printed product in limonene removes the support from the HIPS, thus you get a clean finished model from ABS.

     Unfortunately, using HIPS as an auxiliary material limits you to printing the actual ABS part. Other 3D printing materials will be damaged by limonene. In any case, HIPS and ABS print well together, have the same strength, stiffness, and require a comparable print temperature.

      In fact, despite the fact that HIPS was originally used as a support material, it is a worthy replacement for conventional 3D printer materials. It is stronger than PLA and ABS, deforms less than ABS, and is easy to glue, sand, and paint.

When should I use HIPS for 3D printing?

      With many similar characteristics to ABS, HIPS is excellent for parts that need to withstand wear and tear, as well as for projects where a material that does not need finishing is required to achieve the final look.