Support

Soluble support materials to be used with dual-extruder printers.

HIPS has similar properties to ABS, but is harder and more impact resistant. As already mentioned, the material is particularly characterized by its comparatively high solubility in relation to certain chemicals, which allows for relatively smooth separation when used as a support structure. It is typically used in the area of ABS printing as support structure, and the temporary stability of the HIPS form plays a central role here. It also has a smooth and scratch-resistant surface, it is heat resistant, and its white translucent color simplifies coloring. In addition, it is a safe food-contact material. After the printing process, you should wait until the printed part has cooled down completely before starting to remove the supporting structures. Unlike PVA or BVOH support structures, HIPS needs to be removed with chemicals (D-Limonenone). Therefore, you should only use it as a support structure for materials such as ABS, because certain other materials can be sensitive to the chemical limonic acid, and as a result, the component might be damaged.

BVOH is a support material that is soluble in warm water.