What is a common issue faced when printing with ABS filament in FDM?

When using ABS filament in Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), a common issue encountered is its high tendency to warp during the printing process. This warping occurs due to the material’s thermal properties; ABS has a relatively high thermal contraction when it cools. As it is extruded and laid down in layers, the lower layers cool at different rates than the upper layers, leading to stress buildup that can cause the corners of a print to lift away from the printing surface.

For successful printing with ABS, maintaining a stable and elevated printing environment is essential. This usually involves using a heated bed to keep the temperature consistent and reduce the chances of warping. Additionally, an enclosed print area can help retain heat around the print, further minimizing warping.

Other aspects of ABS, such as its relatively low flexibility compared to other materials or potential issues with layer adhesion, are not as prevalent as warping and may not significantly hinder the printing process when proper settings and techniques are applied. Therefore, understanding the high warping tendency of ABS is crucial for ensuring successful prints with this material.