Description: This article contains some of the most frequently asked questions about HIPS filament from Summer 2019.

Q: What is HIPS filament?
A: HIPS filament (High Impact Polystyrene), is a bio-degradable filament that is very good for supports. It is used in the food industry for packaging, as well as used to pack CD disks and produce medicinal trays. Many 3D printing enthusiasts prefer to use HIPS for supports when printing with ABS.

Q: Why would I use HIPS filament?
It is like ABS, and less likely to warp.A:

Q: Why wouldn’t I use HIPS filament?
A: It has adhesion and curling issues and is very difficult to work with without a heated bed.

Q: What temperatures do I print HIPS filament at?
A: While the exact temperature will vary based on your printer, the filament you are using, and your preferences, the recommended range of temperature for HIPS filament is 220-230°C, and 90-110°C for the bed temperature. It is highly recommended to use a heated bed to prevent adhesion issues.

Q: What sizes of filament do I need?
A: The size of filament that you need will vary based on your printer. Currently there are 1.75mm and 2.85mm filaments available. Usually printers will only support one of these sizes, so ensure you are using the correct size.

Q: Why is there 3.0mm filament listed online?
A: 3.0mm filament is another name for 2.85mm filament. It was originally used as an easier way to purchase filament, rather than using a rather specific number of 2.85mm. However, over time some manufacturers did not realize this and started making 3.0mm filament, so be sure to check the size in the specifications for the filament. This will normally be listed as true diameter and should be listed as 2.85mm rather than 3.0mm. 1.75mm filament however does not have this issue, and you can purchase it without any inconveniences.

Q: What print speed should I use when printing with HIPS filament?
A: The exact speed will vary based on your printer and your personal preference, however typically 30mm/s - 40mm/s is the recommended print speed.

Q: What retraction settings should I use?
A: Retraction settings (speed and length) will vary greatly based upon your printer, what type of extruder you are using, and what filament you are using. To fine tune this based on your printer, you can follow this guide: https://www.matterhackers.com/articles/retraction-just-say-no-to-oozing.