ABS vs Nylon in 3D Printing. What Is the Difference?

by Mike Brooks | Last Updated: May 1, 2022

3D printing is a technological process involving manufacturing three-dimensional objects from digital models.

Technology has come a long way in the past few years, and it is now more affordable and accessible than ever before.

ABS vs Nylon “Battle”

Many materials such as PLA material can be used for 3D printing, but ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) and Nylon are the two most common printing filaments.

So, what’s the difference between ABS and Nylon? 

Read on to find out!

How Can You Tell the Difference Between Nylon and ABS?

ABS filament is a thermoplastic polymer that can be melted and reformed. It is strong and impact-resistant, and it has a high melting point.

Nylon, on the other hand, is a synthetic polymer with better flexural strength. It is also strong and impact-resistant, but it has a lower melting point than ABS.

You should be aware of a few key differences between Nylon and ABS before choosing a material for your project.

First, Nylon is more flexible than ABS. That means that you can use it for parts that need to bend or flex. It is also less likely to crack or shatter under impact.

Another difference between Nylon and ABS is that Nylon is more resistant to chemicals and temperature changes. That means you can use it in environments where ABS would break down.

Finally, Nylon is less sticky and prints at a lower temperature than ABS, so it will not adhere to other materials such as the printing platform as easily.

The one you use depends on your project.

ABS vs Nylon Property Values

There are some key differences between ABS and Nylon.

Nylon is more flexible and resistant to chemicals and temperature changes, but it has a lower melting point. ABS is a brittle filament and is more impact-resistant but less flexible.

The following are the key differences and property values of ABS and Nylon.

ABS

• Molding Temperature range: 220-250 °F
• Vicat Softening Point: 100 °C
• Tensile Strength: 6,000 psi
• Flexural Modulus: 270,000 psi
• Izod Impact (notched): 3.8 ft·lb/in
• Elongation at Break:  50%
• Hardness: Rockwell R
• Water Absorption: 0.3%

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Nylon

• Molding Temperature range: 350-400 °F
• Vicat Softening Point: 215 °C
• Tensile Strength: 7,000 psi
• Flexural Modulus: 310,000 psi
• Izod Impact (notched): 5.0 ft·lb/in
• Elongation at Break:  50%
• Hardness: Rockwell R
• Water ABSorption: 0.4%

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ABS vs Nylon Material Properties

The printing materials to use for your project depend on your needs. ABS is a good choice if you need a strong, impact-resistant material with a higher melting point that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

If you need a more flexible material resistant to chemicals and better thermal stability, then Nylon is better.

The following are the major material properties comparing ABS and Nylon:

ABS

• Thermoplastic
• Strong
• Impact-resistant
• High melting point
• Withstand long term wear
• UV resistant

Nylon

• Synthetic polymer
• Strong
• Impact-resistant
• Low melting temperature
• More flexible
• More resistant to chemicals and temperature changes
• Less sticky
• Very low shrinkage
• Poor resistance to UV radiation
• Can withstand extensive stretching
• It has a semi-crystalline structure

Which Is Stronger Between ABS and Nylon?

In terms of strength, both ABS and Nylon are strong materials.

However, Nylon is slightly stronger than ABS. That is because Nylon is more flexible than ABS. It can withstand more force without breaking, especially in manufacturing environments.

In terms of impact resistance, both materials are also equally resistant. However, Nylon is less likely to crack or shatter under impact than ABS.

So, which one is stronger? In terms of strength and impact resistance, Nylon is the better choice. However, both materials are strong and durable, depending on your specific needs.

Related: Nylon versus PETG

Which One Has Better Chemical Resistance Between ABS and Nylon?

Nylon has a greater chemical resistance than ABS. That means you can use it in environments where ABS would break down. Finally, Nylon is less sticky than ABS, so it will not adhere to other materials as easily.

So, Which One Should You Use?

It depends on your project. If you need a material with greater and good chemical resistance, then Nylon is better. However, ABS is a better choice if you need a material less likely to adhere to other materials, such as a heated bed.

It is also important to note that ABS and Nylon have a better chemical resistance than PLA filament, which is a biodegradable filament containing lactic acid.

Nylon PLA is an organically made filament constituting organic materials that contain a volatile organic compound.

Related: PLA vs ABS

Which One Is a Better Heat Resistant Plastic Between ABS and Nylon?

ABS plastic has better resistance to heat than Nylon. That is because ABS has a higher melting point than Nylon. That means it can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down.

So, Which One Should You Use?

If you need a heat-resistant plastic filament, then ABS is the better choice.

However, Nylon is better if you need a more flexible plastic resistant to chemicals and temperature changes with low-temperature settings.

The Low Melting Point of Nylon vs ABS

One of the key differences between Nylon and ABS temperature-wise is the melting point. Nylon has a really low melting point compared to ABS.

That means you can use it in environments where ABS would break down. However, Nylon is less resistant to heat than ABS.

If you need a material that can withstand the high temperatures of a heated printing bed, ABS is better.

Nylon is better if you need a more flexible material resistant to chemicals and temperature changes.

Nylon vs ABS Safety Comparison

Both ABS and Nylon are safe materials compared to other plastics when it comes to safety, although less effective when it comes to safety PLA. However, there are some key differences between the two.

ABS is a thermoplastic. That means that it can be melted down and reformed into new products. Nylon is a synthetic polymer. It is made from smaller molecules joined together to form a larger molecule.

ABS is considered to be a safer material than Nylon. It is not as easy to ignite, and it is known for emitting fumes when it burns. In addition, ABS has a better UV resistance.

Nylon is still a safe material, but you should use it with caution. That is because Nylon is more flammable than ABS, and it produces harmful fumes when it burns.

You should ensure there is proper ventilation and adequate circulation of air.

In terms of safety, ABS is the better choice. However, both materials are safe to use, depending on your specific needs and post-process maintenance.

Nylon vs ABS Durability Comparison

Both ABS and Nylon are durable materials, and they produce quality models. However, there are some key differences between the two.

ABS is a strong material. That means that it is resistant to breaking and shattering hence suitable for making durable prints.

Nylon is a flexible and great material. That means it can withstand more force without breaking.

In terms of impact resistance, both materials are equally resistant. However, Nylon is less likely to crack or shatter under impact than ABS.

So, Which One Is Stronger?

In terms of strength and impact resistance, Nylon is the better choice. However, both materials are strong, durable, and suitable for engineering plastic, depending on your specific needs.

Which Is Easier to Print Between ABS and Nylon?

Nylon is easier to print than ABS. It is less likely to warp or deform even when excessively stretched during the printing process.

So, which one should you use?

If you need a material that is easy to print, go for a good quality Nylon filament. If you need plastic that is more resistant to heat and can give you a glossy finish, other filament types like ABS are better.

ABS vs Nylon Applications

ABS Applications

ABS is a versatile material that you can use in various applications. Some common applications for ABS include:

• 3D printing
• Automotive parts
• Medical devices
• Household appliances
• Military-grade equipment
• Producing headgear

Nylon Applications

Nylon is also a versatile material that you can use in various applications. Some common Nylon printed objects and applications include:

• 3D printing
• Textiles
• Industrial applications
• Household appliances
• Rapid prototyping
• Water and juice bottles

So, which one should you use? 

It depends on your specific needs. If you need plastic more resistant to heat, then ABS is the better choice. However, if you need a more flexible plastic that is chemical resistant, then Nylon is better.

Conclusion

In the end, there are benefits and drawbacks to both ABS and Nylon filaments in 3D printing.

Understanding these differences can help you choose the desired filament for your needs in a very admirable manner.

If you need durability, ABS is a good choice but if you need flexibility, go with Nylon.

Keep in mind that each material also has its unique quirks – so be sure to do your research before making a final decision!

Michael Brooks is the founder of M3DZone.com. He sees a very bright future for 3D printing that's why his mission is to try and make this easy for everyone. Discover your hidden talent and creativity. You can follow here: Facebook, Twitter & Pinterest.