A Guide to High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) Filament for FDM 3D Printing

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) is a versatile and unique material in the realm of 3D printing. While it may not be as widely known as PLA or ABS, HIPS offers specific advantages that make it indispensable for certain applications, particularly as a support material and in functional prototyping.

This guide explores what HIPS filament is, its physical attributes, its uses, and the pros and cons of incorporating it into your 3D printing projects.

What is HIPS Filament?

HIPS, or High Impact Polystyrene, is a thermoplastic polymer known for its strength and versatility. It’s commonly used in the packaging and food service industries due to its durability and lightweight properties. In 3D printing, HIPS is often paired with ABS as a support material, thanks to its unique solubility in limonene, which allows for easy removal without damaging the primary print.

HIPS can also be used as a standalone filament for creating durable, lightweight parts. It shares many characteristics with ABS but is easier to process, making it a popular choice for various functional applications.

Physical Attributes of HIPS Filament

1. Strength and Durability: HIPS is strong and impact-resistant, similar to ABS, but slightly more flexible.

2. Lightweight: It’s lighter than many other thermoplastics, making it ideal for applications requiring low weight.

3. Matte Finish: HIPS produces a smooth, matte surface finish, which is ideal for parts requiring a professional aesthetic.

4. Heat Resistance: HIPS can withstand moderate heat, with a softening point around 90-100°C, making it suitable for functional parts.

5. Solubility in Limonene: One of HIPS’s standout features is its solubility in limonene, a citrus-based solvent. This property makes it ideal for use as a dissolvable support material.

6. Ease of Printing: HIPS prints well with minimal warping compared to ABS, but still requires a heated bed and proper temperature control.

Applications of HIPS Filament

HIPS’s unique properties lend it to a variety of uses in 3D printing:

1. Support Material:

   • Often used with ABS or other high-temperature filaments.

   • Its solubility in limonene allows for clean removal, enabling complex geometries and overhangs.

2. Prototyping:

   • Ideal for creating lightweight, durable prototypes.

   • Frequently used in engineering and industrial design applications.

3. Consumer Goods:

   • Used for items like storage containers, models, and household fixtures due to its strength and smooth finish.

4. Packaging and Display Models:

   • Lightweight and sturdy properties make it suitable for packaging prototypes or display models.

Advantages of Using HIPS Filament

1. Dissolvable Support Material:

   • HIPS’s solubility in limonene makes it a superior choice for supporting complex 3D prints, especially with ABS.

2. Durability:

   • Its high impact resistance ensures that parts can handle wear and tear.

3. Lightweight:

   • HIPS is ideal for applications requiring sturdy yet lightweight parts.

4. Smooth Surface Finish:

   • Produces parts with a professional matte finish that require minimal post-processing.

5. Ease of Printing:

   • Prints with fewer warping issues compared to ABS, while still offering comparable strength.

Disadvantages of Using HIPS Filament

1. Moisture Sensitivity:

   • HIPS is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which can lead to print defects like bubbling or poor layer adhesion if not stored properly.

2. Limited Heat Resistance:

   • While moderately heat-resistant, it’s not suitable for high-temperature environments compared to materials like polycarbonate.

3. Limonene Requirement:

   • Using HIPS as a support material requires limonene, which adds an extra cost and step to the process.

4. Printer Requirements:

   • Requires a heated bed (around 90-110°C) and an enclosure for optimal results, which might not be available on entry-level printers.

5. Odor:

   • Like ABS, HIPS can emit fumes during printing, necessitating proper ventilation.

Printing Tips for HIPS Filament

To achieve the best results with HIPS, follow these tips:

• Nozzle Temperature: Print at 220-260°C depending on your specific HIPS filament.

• Bed Temperature: Use a heated bed set to 90-110°C to minimize warping.

• Adhesion: Use adhesives like a glue stick or a PEI sheet to improve bed adhesion.

• Enclosure: An enclosed printer is recommended to maintain consistent temperature and reduce warping.

• Storage: Store HIPS in an airtight container with desiccant to prevent moisture absorption.

• Limonene Use: When dissolving HIPS supports, immerse the part in limonene for several hours and rinse thoroughly afterward.

Conclusion

HIPS filament is a versatile material that shines as both a standalone filament and a support material. Its solubility in limonene makes it a go-to choice for complex ABS prints, while its durability and smooth finish allow it to excel in functional prototyping and consumer goods.

While it requires careful handling and proper equipment, HIPS offers unique advantages that justify its use in professional and industrial 3D printing projects. Whether you’re tackling intricate designs or crafting lightweight, durable parts, HIPS is a filament worth adding to your toolkit.