Polymaker™ ABS

Polymaker™ ABS – Low-Odor, Heat-Resistant ABS for Functional Printing

Polymaker™ ABS is made with a specialty bulk-polymerized ABS resin that features significantly lower volatile content compared to traditional ABS resins. The result is a material that delivers excellent print quality with minimal odor — making it more comfortable to use in workshop and office environments without sacrificing any of the mechanical properties that make ABS a go-to material for functional parts.

Note: This product is being renamed from PolyLite™ ABS to Polymaker™ ABS. Same great formula, new name.

Mechanical Properties

Polymaker™ ABS maintains its strength and shape in thermally demanding environments, making it well suited for parts exposed to elevated temperatures, mechanical stress, or repeated use. Typical applications include enclosures, functional brackets, protective covers, industrial tooling aids, jigs, and fixtures.

Printing Behaviour

Polymaker™ ABS can be printed on any enclosed 3D printer. An all-metal hotend capable of reaching above 250°C is recommended but not required. The cooling fan should be kept off during printing. The size of the model affects the enclosure requirements: small models (smaller than a fist) can generally be printed without a fully enclosed printer using a 90°C bed and 260°C nozzle temperature. Larger models require an enclosed printer maintaining approximately 40–50°C ambient temperature. Very large models — over 15–20 cm in any direction — may require an actively heated chamber of 70°C or above to prevent warping and delamination. Bed adhesion products such as Magigoo Original or BuildTak can help with larger prints.

Print Settings

• Printing temperature: 245°C – 265°C
• Bed temperature: 90°C – 100°C
• Printing speed: 30 – 50 mm/s
• Cooling fan: Off
• Direct drive retraction: 1 mm / 20 mm/s
• Bowden retraction: 3 mm / 40 mm/s

Handling and Storage

ABS is partially hygroscopic and will absorb moisture if left unprotected. If the filament has been exposed to humid conditions, drying at 70°C for 6 hours is recommended before printing. Store in an airtight container with desiccant for long-term storage.

Post-Processing

Polymaker™ ABS can be smoothed with acetone, allowing for a polished, layer-line-free surface finish. Acetone is a hazardous chemical — handle with appropriate safety precautions and in a well-ventilated area. For a safer alternative, Polymaker recommends PolySmooth™ filament, which can be smoothed with isopropyl alcohol.

Typical Applications

• Functional enclosures, housings, and brackets
• Industrial jigs, fixtures, and tooling aids
• Protective covers and mechanical components
• Functional prototypes requiring heat resistance and toughness
• Parts requiring acetone smoothing for a polished finish