ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate)

ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate)

ASA is a thermoplastic similar to ABS but with enhanced weather resistance and UV stability. Developed as an alternative to ABS for outdoor applications, ASA retains the strength, impact resistance, and heat tolerance of ABS but adds superior UV and weather resistance, making it ideal for outdoor use. It is commonly used in automotive and industrial applications.

Common Uses:

  • Outdoor enclosures
  • Automotive parts
  • Garden equipment
  • Sports and recreational equipment
  • Functional prototypes

ASA Variations:

ASA+

ASA+ offers improved layer adhesion and reduced warping, similar to the “+” versions of other filaments.

These improvements make ASA+ ideal for large prints or parts requiring more stability during printing.

ASA CF (Carbon Fibre)*

A carbon fibre-reinforced version of ASA, offering increased stiffness, strength, and reduced weight.

These added properties make ASA CF suitable for lightweight, durable outdoor parts or functional prototypes requiring rigidity.

*Refer to our Carbon Fibre guide for more information on printing with carbon fibre-reinforced filament. 

ASA Variations Comparison Table

Material

Strength

Heat Resistance

Surface Finish

Common applications

ASA

High

High (~100°C)

Glossy

Outdoor parts, automotive, functional prototypes

ASA+

High

High (~100°C)

Glossy

Large prints, outdoor prototypes

ASA CF

Very High

High (~100°C)

Matte

Lightweight, rigid functional parts

 

Pros and Cons of ASA:

While ASA offers many benefits, it also comes with its challenges. Understanding the pros and cons of ASA can help you determine whether it’s the appropriate filament for you and your project. 

Pros:

  • UV and weather resistance: ASA’s standout feature is its excellent resistance to UV light and weathering, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
  • Durable and strong: Similar to ABS, ASA provides excellent mechanical strength and impact resistance.
  • Heat resistance: ASA can withstand temperatures similar to ABS, making it suitable for functional parts in warm environments.
  • Smooth surface finish: Prints with ASA tend to have a smooth, aesthetically pleasing surface, which can be post-processed.
  • Less prone to yellowing: Unlike ABS, ASA doesn’t yellow over time when exposed to sunlight.

Cons:

  • Warping and shrinkage: Like ABS, ASA is prone to warping during cooling, especially on larger prints, and requires an enclosed print chamber for best results.
  • Fumes: ASA emits strong fumes during printing, similar to ABS, requiring proper ventilation.
  • Higher cost: ASA is generally more expensive than ABS due to its enhanced weather resistance and durability.
  • Requires high-temperature printing: ASA needs a higher extruder and bed temperature than PLA, making it less compatible with entry-level 3D printers.

Storage Tips:

Similar to ABS, ASA is slightly hygroscopic, and moisture can affect print quality:

  • Store in an airtight container with desiccant packs to prevent moisture absorption.
  • Dry before printing if the filament has absorbed moisture (use a filament dryer or a low-temperature oven at 60°C for a few hours).
  • Store in a drybox during printing to maintain filament quality, especially in humid environments.

Environmental Considerations:

ASA is a petroleum-based plastic and not biodegradable, with environmental considerations similar to ABS:

  • Not biodegradable: ASA should be recycled when possible and not discarded in regular waste.
  • Emits fumes: Like ABS, ASA produces potentially harmful fumes during printing, making proper ventilation a necessity.
  • Durability: ASA’s resistance to UV light and weathering makes it a long-lasting material, ideal for outdoor applications where sustainability through longevity is important.

Generic Print Settings for ASA:

Extruder Temperature: 240°C – 260°C

Bed Temperature: 90°C – 110°C

Print Speed: 30 – 60 mm/s

Bed Adhesion: Use a heated bed with a surface like Kapton tape or PEI sheets; applying a glue stick can also help reduce warping.

Cooling: Minimal or no cooling fan is recommended to avoid warping and improve layer adhesion.

Enclosure: Using an enclosure to maintain ambient temperature and reduce warping is highly recommended.

Please note, print settings can vary depending on the brand and filament type. Always consult the manufacturer’s recommended settings, typically available on the spool packaging or the supplier’s website, for optimal results.

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