The world of 3D printing has seen a rapid growth in recent years, fueled by the availability of affordable consumer-grade printers and a wide range of materials. While PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the most commonly used filament for beginners, its limitations in terms of strength, heat resistance, and durability have prompted many makers to explore other options. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a popular alternative that offers excellent properties such as strength and heat resistance. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges, including the need for a heated bed and higher printing temperatures. This is where Anycubic’s innovative line of ABS-like resins comes into play, offering users a compelling alternative that combines the desirable properties of ABS without the hassle.
What is Anycubic ABS-Like Resin?
Anycubic is a leading manufacturer of 3D printers and filaments, known for their high-quality products and innovative solutions. Their line of ABS-like resins is designed specifically for use with LCD-based resin 3D printers, such as the Anycubic Photon series. These resins are formulated to mimic the properties of traditional ABS filament, making them an ideal choice for those looking for a stronger and more durable option for their 3D prints.
One of the key features of Anycubic ABS-like resin is its ability to be cured using UV light. Unlike traditional ABS filament, which requires a heated bed and high printing temperatures, this resin can be printed at room temperature using an LCD-based 3D printer. Once the print is completed, it can then be cured using a UV light source, resulting in a strong and durable final product.
Benefits of Anycubic ABS-Like Resin for 3D Printing
Anycubic ABS-like resin offers several benefits over traditional ABS filament, making it a popular choice among 3D printing enthusiasts. Some of the key advantages of this resin include:
High Strength and Durability
One of the main reasons why ABS is preferred over PLA for certain applications is its superior strength and durability. Anycubic ABS-like resin offers the same level of strength and rigidity as traditional ABS filament, making it an ideal choice for creating functional parts that need to withstand stress and wear. This makes it a popular choice for automotive and mechanical components, as well as toys and other items that require a high level of durability.
Improved Heat Resistance
Another significant advantage of Anycubic ABS-like resin is its improved heat resistance compared to PLA. While PLA starts to soften and deform at temperatures above 60°C, ABS can withstand temperatures up to 105°C without losing its shape or structural integrity. This makes it suitable for use in applications that are exposed to higher temperatures, such as car interiors, electronic housings, and kitchen appliances.
Good Chemical Resistance
ABS is also known for its chemical resistance, making it an ideal material for use in environments where it may come into contact with various chemicals and solvents. Anycubic ABS-like resin offers the same level of resistance, making it suitable for creating prototypes and functional parts for industries such as automotive, aerospace, and medical.
Cost-Effective
In addition to its functional benefits, Anycubic ABS-like resin is also a cost-effective option for 3D printing. While traditional ABS filament can be expensive, especially when purchased from reputable brands, this resin is significantly more affordable, making it accessible to a wider range of users. This makes it an excellent choice for makers on a budget who still want to achieve the desired properties of ABS without breaking the bank.
Comparison with Traditional ABS Filament
While Anycubic ABS-like resin may offer many of the same benefits as traditional ABS filament, it also has some distinct differences that set it apart. These include:
Printing Method
The most significant difference between traditional ABS filament and Anycubic ABS-like resin is the printing method. While ABS filament requires a heated bed and high printing temperatures, this resin can be printed at room temperature using an LCD-based 3D printer. This makes it a more accessible option for beginners who may not have a heated bed or are not comfortable with adjusting printing temperatures.
Post-Processing
Another key difference is in the post-processing stage. Once a print is completed using traditional ABS filament, it must be cooled slowly in order to prevent warping or cracking. On the other hand, prints made with Anycubic ABS-like resin can be cured immediately after printing using a UV light source, allowing for faster production times and eliminating the risk of warping.
Layer Adhesion
Layer adhesion is a critical factor in any 3D printing process, as it determines the strength and durability of the final product. While ABS filament tends to have excellent layer adhesion, Anycubic ABS-like resin may require some additional steps to achieve the same level of strength. This includes increasing the curing time or using an epoxy resin to strengthen weaker areas.
Applications of Anycubic ABS-Like Resin
Anycubic ABS-like resin has a wide range of applications, making it a versatile material that can be used in various industries. Some of the most common applications of this resin include:
Prototyping
Due to its strength, durability, and chemical resistance, Anycubic ABS-like resin is an ideal choice for creating prototypes that accurately simulate the properties of final products. Its ability to withstand higher temperatures also makes it suitable for testing parts intended for use in hot environments.
Functional Parts
With its high strength and rigidity, Anycubic ABS-like resin is an excellent choice for creating functional parts such as gears, housings, and brackets. Its ability to handle stress and wear makes it a popular choice for automotive and mechanical components, as well as parts for appliances and electronic devices.
Toys and Games
Another fun application of Anycubic ABS-like resin is in the creation of toys and games. Its durability and chemical resistance make it an ideal material for creating items such as LEGO bricks, board game pieces, and miniature figurines.
Tips for Using Anycubic ABS-Like Resin
To achieve the best results with Anycubic ABS-like resin, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Use an LCD-Based 3D Printer
As mentioned earlier, Anycubic ABS-like resin is specifically formulated for use with LCD-based 3D printers, such as the Anycubic Photon series. While it may be possible to use other types of printers, you will likely not get the same quality or consistency in your prints.
Adjust Printing Parameters
While you do not need a heated bed or high printing temperatures when using this resin, it is still essential to fine-tune your printing parameters for optimal results. This includes adjusting the exposure time, layer height, and curing time to suit the specific properties of the resin.
Handle with Care
Just like traditional ABS filament, Anycubic ABS-like resin can be brittle and prone to breaking if not handled properly. It is essential to handle your prints with care, especially when removing them from the build plate, to avoid any damage.
Post-Process for Strength
As mentioned earlier, Anycubic ABS-like resin may require some additional post-processing steps to achieve the desired level of strength and durability. Experiment with increasing the curing time or using an epoxy resin to reinforce weaker areas for stronger prints.
Conclusion
Anycubic ABS-like resin offers a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional ABS filament for those looking for a stronger and more durable option for their 3D prints. With its high strength, improved heat resistance, and good chemical resistance, this resin is suitable for a wide range of applications, including prototyping, functional parts, and toys. By understanding the unique properties of this resin and following some simple tips, you can achieve excellent results with your 3D prints and take your projects to the next level.