HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene) is a lightweight, easy-to-sand material often used as a soluble support for ABS. It dissolves in limonene, making it ideal for dual-extrusion prints with complex geometries that require clean support removal.
Properties
- Lightweight — Lower density than most printing materials
- Soluble Support — Dissolves in d-limonene for clean ABS support removal
- Machinability — Easy to sand, glue, and paint for post-processing
- Impact Resistance — Good toughness for general-purpose parts
- Heat Resistance — Moderate, similar to ABS (~95°C)
Best Practices
- Use an enclosed printer to prevent warping and improve layer adhesion
- Pair with ABS for dual-extrusion support workflows
- Dissolve supports in d-limonene; allow several hours for full dissolution
- Print on a heated bed with ABS slurry or PEI for best adhesion
- Ensure good ventilation when printing, as styrene fumes may be emitted