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Bluetape or Kapton for ABS?

Posted: Fri Apr 05, 2013 6:10 pm
by cassetti
At work on my replicator, I print 100% of the time on Kapton tape (no abs slurry, no hairspray, none of that!).

I know that PLA sticks to blue tape pretty well (even without heat!) but what about ABS? I've been printing now for about a week on Blue tape heated to 50c for PLA and 75C-80C for ABS. I'm wondering if BlueTape is sufficient at those temperatures for long prints, or if I should switch to Kapton tape (I have a roll of 4" Kapton). Note I'm using a roll of 3" blue tape, for fewer gaps

Suggestions?

Re: Bluetape or Kapton for ABS?

Posted: Fri Apr 05, 2013 6:13 pm
by mhackney
Blue tape can work fine for ABS printing too. 88°C is a good temperature. If you can print a 1cm or taller object with no peal off then you won't have a problem with longer prints. However, ABS IS NOTORIOUS for shrinkage cracking/warping in big (and especially thin) parts.

Re: Bluetape or Kapton for ABS?

Posted: Fri Apr 05, 2013 8:24 pm
by rs50pilot
Abs glue made at home is best for me. Most of the time I can't get the part off. Started using blue tape the glue so the glass isn't a pain to clean.

Re: Bluetape or Kapton for ABS?

Posted: Fri Apr 05, 2013 8:55 pm
by cassetti
Ok, I've had issues on my non heated beds where the blue tape would peel back with the warping piece! That's why I went out and paid $9 for a roll of 3" blue tape which has worked well.

I guess it comes down to price. Blue tape is way cheaper than kapton tape (or similar products).

I've heard all about the abs glues (i use them to repair prints all the time), and elmer's white-glue mixtures (watered down, pops off plate when washed under warm water), and hairsprays. But I'm looking for something that doesn't leave a mess.

Only real issue I have with blue tape is that it sometimes sticks to the model after removal.

Re: Bluetape or Kapton for ABS?

Posted: Fri Apr 05, 2013 9:00 pm
by mhackney
I've been using hairspray on glass or aluminum almost exclusively at this point for ABS. It is 100% reliable and not messy. I haven't even cleaned my build surface in over a month of heavy printing, just spot spray any lift-off damage and go. Nice and toothy. I use Herbal Essence Set Me Up spray. Wouldn't leave home (to print) without it!