Tools for dissolving HIPS filament

thingiverse

I searched online but couldn't find many techniques for dissolving HIPS filament used as support material, so I created my own process. When I first tried using Limonene to melt away HIPS, I put it in a mason jar and tossed the part inside. By the time I returned, the HIPS had melted, but a sticky mess remained at the bottom of the jar, with the part stuck to it. Cleaning out this material was incredibly difficult, and Limonene is relatively expensive and hard to obtain. I needed a better process and setup, so I came up with this design that functions like a grease trap. Instructions Components must be printed in ABS to withstand the solvent. Settings 300 Micron layer height, no rafts, no support. The grate component can be reused; make one disposable cup for each time you plan on using the drippings-cut container. I used stainless steel wire, approximately .040" in diameter. Paint filters can be purchased at harbor freight in bulk or a local paint supply store. HIPS removal process: follow the steps shown in the gallery. 1. Print your object with HIPS as support material. 2. Break off as much of the HIPS as possible without damaging the ABS part you want to keep. I demonstrate two tools I use for this purpose, including an orange-handled pair of pliers and a red-handled snip. 3. Print the "grate" and "disposable cup." Make a piece of wire that fits into the holes of the cup. See the gallery for how I assembled mine. Ensure the wire is short enough to allow you to close the lid on the jar, preventing the solvent from evaporating. 4. Place your part on the dripping trap and submerge it in the solvent. When working with the solvent, I wear a 3M organic vapor respirator and Nitrile gloves for safety. 5. Wait 2-8 hours. Use the wire to remove the assembly from the jar, taking care not to disturb the HIPS removal solution. The drippings should settle into the dripping cup while leaving your part safely resting on the grate. Pour any remaining solvent floating on top of the drippings back into the jar. 6. Using a second mason jar, a paint filter, and a funnel that fits around the paint filter, strain the solvent to remove any floating debris.