PLA vs HIPS Filament - Which One is Best for Support Material?

3D printing has revolutionized the manufacturing industry by making it possible to produce complex models and parts with ease. However, 3D printing can be challenging, especially when it comes to creating support structures. Support materials are crucial for 3D printing complex models and designs, as they hold the model in place as the printing process occurs.

Two of the most common 3D printing materials used for support structures are PLA and HIPS. Both PLA and HIPS are thermoplastics, but there are some differences in their properties and applications that we'll discuss below.

What is PLA Filament?

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a bio-based plastic that is derived from cornstarch or sugarcane. It is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and easy to use. It is the most common 3D printing filament used today due to its ease of use, wide range of available colors, and compatibility with most printers.

Properties of PLA Filament

• PLA is hard and somewhat brittle, with a low resistance to heat and UV radiation.
• It has a melting temperature of 180-220°C and prints best at a temperature of 200-220°C.
• It is suitable for printing objects with fine details and sharp edges.
• It is not soluble in water or other solvents; however, it does dissolve in alkaline solutions.

What is HIPS Filament?

HIPS (High-Impact Polystyrene) is a thermoplastic that is similar to ABS plastic. It is a durable and lightweight material that is mainly used for support structures due to its dissolvability property.

Properties of HIPS Filament

• HIPS is tough and resistant to impact, with a high melting temperature ranging from 220-275°C.
• It is soluble in limonene, a common solvent used in 3D printing, making the removal of support structures easy.
• HIPS is less prone to warping, making it an ideal material for 3D printing models with large support structures.

Comparison: PLA vs HIPS Filament for Support Structures

Both PLA and HIPS filaments have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to printing support structures. PLA is easy to use and print, produces consistent results, and is excellent for creating smooth, sharp edges. HIPS, on the other hand, is tougher and more durable than PLA, making it an ideal material for printing support structures.

In terms of dissolvability, HIPS has an advantage over PLA as it is soluble in limonene, a common solvent used in 3D printing, making it easier to remove support structures. PLA, on the other hand, does not dissolve in any solvent, and support structures must be manually removed by breaking them off the model.

Conclusion

So, which filament is best for creating support structures in 3D printing? It depends on your specific needs and printing goals. If you prioritize smooth, sharp edges and easy printing, PLA might be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you are more concerned about durability and dissolvability of support structures, HIPS may be the best choice.

Ultimately, both PLA and HIPS filaments have their advantages and can be used effectively for printing support structures in 3D printing.

References

1. Green Dot Bioplastics. (2018). PLA vs. HIPS: Which Is the Best Choice for 3D Printing? [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.greendotbioplastics.com/2018/09/06/pla-vs-hips-which-is-the-best-choice-for-3d-printing/
2. MatterHackers. (2021). PLA Filament | Everything You Need To Know. [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.matterhackers.com/3d-printer-filament-compare?aff=7410&kw=&kw=PLA%20Filament&kw=
3. Filaments.ca. (2020). What is HIPS Filament Used for? [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://filaments.ca/blogs/news/what-is-hips-filament-used-for