[PC-ABS]

Firstly, I would like to point out that this review was done with the equipment set up for 3mm filament. It should be no problem to extrude 1.75mm filament with similar results, but just bear that in mind as you read.

I am using PC-ABS, but the exact brand is unknown. The individual who sold me the resin did his own Izod and melt flow tests, which can be found below. I don't know of a way to determine the resin other than perhaps finding one with similar properties. That said, this is the only information I have on the resin:

Machine used: Filastruder S/N 1577
Nozzle Diameter: 3.0mm
Extruded temperature: 245°C
Speed of extrusion: 9.5"/ minute
Filament diameter and tolerance: 2.90 +/- 0.05mm
Pre-extrusion processing: Dried using food dehydrator overnight
Extruded vs purchased: I have never purchased PC-ABS.

I noticed that drying was absolutely necessary. Without drying, the filament came out bubbly and crispy. It was brittle and the diameter was all over the place. I purchased a basic food dehydrator with two trays off of amazon, and it worked fine. I let it run for about 10-15 hours overnight.

DESCRIPTION OF CHANGES MADE TO FILASTRUDER:

- Upgraded hopper for more capacity (I used this one by IanJohnson)
- Upgraded power supply for heater (15v Fixed/Adjustable from Newark) (This is a safety feature by design to prevent damage in the event of an equipment failure - unlocking higher temperatures is as simple as purchasing an inexpensive 15v power supply)
- Drilled nozzle to 3mm (if you are planning to extrude 3mm filament, please read this topic.)
- Added a fume absorber (Weller Fume & Smoke Absorber from Newark) Note that the fume absorber does not effect filament diameter.
- Oriented the Filastruder vertically for straighter filament.

I had great printing results when printing at 285 C with a heated bed at 110 C. Bed covered in PET tape with purple elmer's glue. The parts seen blow were printed with a layer height of .3mm at 35mm/s. Layer bonding was good, but I expected better. No delamination issues during print, but if pressure is applied, they do separate. Parts were mostly unaffected by actetone when brushed on with a foam paintbrush; it didn't really smooth it or deform the shape but it did fade the color a little bit.

Questions, comments, and suggestions welcome!!