How to Buy High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)

Your Guide to buying the best HIPS

Overview

This HIPS buying guide provides an in-depth overview of the features and considerations to keep in mind when selecting the right HIPS product for your needs. We discuss the benefits of HIPS and why you should choose this type of material for your project, as well as the different types of HIPS available and how to determine which one is best suited for your project. We will also cover how to identify the features and specifications of HIPS and provide tips for selecting the best HIPS product for your project. Finally, we will discuss pricing and how to compare different HIPS products.

Key features

  1. Material - Look for HIPS that is made of high-quality materials so that it is durable and long-lasting.
  2. Thickness - HIPS usually comes in a range of thicknesses, so choose one that best suits your needs.
  3. Surface Finish - Consider the type of finish you would like on your HIPS, such as smooth, glossy, or textured.
  4. Size - Measure your space and buy HIPS that fits your needs.
  5. Colour - Choose HIPS in a colour that complements your space and décor.
  6. Cost - Balance cost with quality and choose HIPS that fits your budget.

See the most popular HIPS on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability: HIPS is a very resilient material, making it a great choice for long-term use. It is resistant to cracking, breaking, or warping, making it a low-maintenance material for a variety of uses.
  • Cost: HIPS is an economical material, making it one of the most affordable thermoplastics available on the market. It is lightweight, yet durable, making it a cost-effective option for a range of applications.
  • Aesthetics: HIPS offers a wide variety of colors, textures, and finishes, making it a great option for aesthetic applications. It can be used to create a variety of shapes, including complex geometries, making it a great choice for custom designs.
  • Weight: HIPS is one of the lightest thermoplastics available, making it a great material for applications that require light weight. It is also easy to form and shape, making it a versatile choice for a range of uses.
  • Chemical Resistance: HIPS is highly resistant to a range of chemicals, making it a great choice for applications that require protection from corrosive materials. It is also resistant to grease and oil, making it a great option for use in areas where these substances are present.

Cons

  • Cost: HIPS is usually more expensive than other types of plastic, such as ABS.
  • Durability: HIPS may not be as durable as some other plastics, and may be more prone to cracking or breaking.
  • Flammability: HIPS is slightly flammable and may not be suitable for applications that require fire resistance.
  • Impact Resistance: HIPS may not be as impact resistant as other plastics, and may be more likely to shatter or break when dropped.
  • Temperature Resistance: HIPS may not be as heat resistant as other plastics, so it may not be suitable for applications where the material will be exposed to high temperatures.

Best alternatives

  1. ABS Plastic - A strong, lightweight plastic commonly used in 3D printing.
  2. Polypropylene - A stiff, durable plastic with a wide range of chemical resistance.
  3. Nylon - A versatile, strong material with a wide range of applications.
  4. Polycarbonate - A lightweight, tough plastic with superior impact resistance.
  5. PET - A strong, flexible plastic with excellent chemical resistance and dimensional stability.
  6. Acrylic - A transparent, lightweight plastic with good optical qualities.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • HIPS filament - A type of thermoplastic used in 3D printing.
  • Print bed - The surface that the 3D printed object is printed on.
  • 3D printer - A machine that transforms 3D designs into physical objects.
  • Print cooling fan - A fan used to cool down the objects as they are being printed.
  • 3D Printer software - Software used for designing and printing 3D objects.
  • Heated print bed - A heated print bed which can help with adhesion and 3D printing.

Common questions

  1. What are the benefits of HIPS? HIPS can provide good impact strength, excellent formability and weldability, chemical resistance, low cost, excellent electrical insulation, low smoke and flame characteristics, and dimensional stability.
  2. What is the difference between HIPS and ABS? HIPS is harder and less flexible than ABS, and it is not as impact resistant. It also has lower heat resistance and is not as resistant to solvents and chemicals.
  3. What kind of applications does HIPS work well in? HIPS is frequently used for packaging, point-of-purchase displays, protective covers, and in electronics components. It is also used in the production of toys, appliances, and automotive parts.
  4. How do I know if HIPS is right for my project? To determine if HIPS is appropriate for your application, consider your project's cost, end-use environment, and performance requirements.

Trivia

Every year in the United States, more than 10 million pairs of shoes are sent to landfills. However, HIPS offers an innovative way to help reduce this waste. HIPS specializes in refurbished footwear, giving gently used shoes and boots a second life. By purchasing footwear from HIPS, customers can do their part in reducing the amount of waste produced by the fashion industry. Customers can also enjoy the benefit of knowing they are getting a high-quality product at an affordable price. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.