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What is HIPS 3D Printer Filament?
High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) is a thermoplastic polymer commonly used in packaging, signage, and protective casings. In the 3D printing industry, it’s valued both as a stand‑alone filament and as a support material due to its unique solubility properties.
Chemically, HIPS is a polystyrene modified with rubber particles, giving it improved impact resistance compared to standard polystyrene. When printed, it produces lightweight, rigid parts with a matte finish.
One of its most important characteristics for 3D printing is that it dissolves in d‑limonene, a citrus‑based solvent, which makes it especially popular as a support material in dual‑extrusion prints, where it can be printed alongside ABS or other filaments that are not soluble in limonene.
Key Properties
HIPS offers a combination of mechanical stability, ease of post‑processing, and special chemical behavior:
1. Impact Resistance: More durable than standard polystyrene thanks to its rubber‑modified structure.
2. Low Density (~1.04 g/cm³): Produces lightweight parts, especially useful in scale models or prototypes.
3. D‑Limonene Solubility: Fully dissolves when submerged, enabling easy removal from complex prints.
4. Matte Finish: Naturally reduces the visibility of layer lines, creating aesthetically pleasing surfaces.
5. Dimensional Stability: Maintains shape during and after printing with proper cooling.
6. Similar Printing Profile to ABS: Requires a heated bed and similar extrusion temperatures.
7. Moderate Chemical Resistance: Resistant to diluted acids and bases, but not strong solvents like acetone.
Pros and Cons of HIPS Filament
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Dissolves in d‑limonene, making it an excellent support material |
Requires a heated bed to minimize warping |
|
Impact‑resistant and lightweight |
Produces fumes during printing — ventilation recommended |
|
Matte surface finish improves visual quality |
Limited color range compared to PLA or PETG |
|
Easy to sand, paint, and glue |
Slightly more difficult to print than PLA |
|
Affordable and widely available |
Not suitable for high‑temperature applications above ~90 °C |
Recommended Printer Settings
|
Setting |
Recommended Range / Notes |
|
Nozzle Diameter |
0.4 mm standard |
|
Printing Temperature |
230–245 °C — too low reduces layer adhesion; too high can cause oozing |
|
Bed Temperature |
90–110 °C to reduce warping |
|
Bed Surface |
PEI sheet, ABS slurry, or Kapton tape for adhesion |
|
Print Speed |
30–50 mm/s — moderate speeds yield best results |
|
Cooling Fan |
Off or low (0–20%) to avoid layer separation |
|
Enclosure |
Strongly recommended for thermal stability |
|
Post‑Processing |
Sands and paints easily; use primer for smoother finishes |
Pro Tip: If you’re using HIPS purely as a support material, ensure that your primary filament is not soluble in d‑limonene, so the solvent selectively dissolves only the HIPS.
Top Applications
1. Soluble Support Material
When paired with ABS or ASA in a dual‑extrusion printer, HIPS serves as an ideal removable support. Complex overhangs, internal channels, and intricate designs become printable without manual breakaway.
2. Prototypes and Models
Its lightweight and matte finish make it a great choice for architectural models, product prototypes, and educational aids.
3. Props & Cosplay Elements
HIPS parts can be sanded smooth, painted, and detailed for film props or costume components.
4. Enclosures and Casings
Impact resistance and easy machinability allow for durable electronic housings or protective covers.
5. Signage and Display Items
The matte surface resists glare, which is advantageous for visible displays and promotional materials.
HIPS vs PVA Supports
When selecting a soluble support material, the most common contenders are HIPS and PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol).
|
Feature |
HIPS |
PVA |
|
Solvent |
D‑Limonene (citrus‑based) |
Water |
|
Best Paired With |
ABS, ASA |
PLA, PETG |
|
Moisture Sensitivity |
Low |
High — absorbs water from air |
|
Print Difficulty |
Medium — similar to ABS |
Easy, but sensitive to humidity |
|
Strength as Stand‑Alone Filament |
Good — impact resistant |
Poor — brittle when dry |
|
Cost |
Generally lower |
Slightly higher |
|
Environmental Considerations |
Requires chemical disposal |
Water‑soluble — easier disposal |
Key Takeaways:
1. If you print with ABS or ASA, HIPS is the more compatible choice.
2. If you mostly print PLA, PVA supports are simpler and more environmentally friendly.
3. PVA is more sensitive to moisture, requiring dry storage.
FAQs
Q: Can I print HIPS without an enclosure?
A: You can, but expect a higher risk of warping and layer separation in larger prints. An enclosure improves success rates significantly.
Q: Is d‑limonene safe to use at home?
A: D‑limonene is less toxic than many solvents, but it should be handled with gloves in a well‑ventilated area. Avoid prolonged skin contact.
Q: Can HIPS be painted directly?
A: Yes, but for the best results, apply a primer to ensure uniform color and adhesion.
Q: How long does it take for HIPS to dissolve?
A: Depending on the model size and solvent freshness, dissolution can take several hours to overnight.
Q: Is HIPS food‑safe?
A: Most HIPS filaments are not certified food‑safe. Check manufacturer data sheets before using with consumables.
HIPS filament is a versatile 3D printing material with a dual personality, capable of producing lightweight, impact‑resistant standalone parts, and equally valuable as a soluble support for ABS and ASA. Its solubility in d‑limonene opens design possibilities that mechanical supports can’t match, making it an excellent asset for complex prototypes, multi‑material prints, and professional‑grade models.
