What is ASA filament?
ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) is a versatile and durable printing material that is becoming increasingly popular in 3D printing. It is an alternative to ABS and is very comparable to it. Below, we’ve listed the pros and cons of this filament.
What are the benefits of ASA?
Excellent weather resistance
ASA was developed as an alternative to ABS with better weather resistance. It withstands UV radiation, rain, and extreme temperatures without fading or degrading, making it ideal for outdoor use.
It is strong and durable
ASA has high impact and tensile strength compared to ABS. This makes it a great choice for functional parts that need to withstand mechanical stress, such as tool holders and machine components.
Less warping and shrinkage than ABS
ASA has lower shrinkage and is less prone to warping than ABS. This reduces the risk of failed prints and makes printing larger objects easier.
Beautiful, smooth, and aesthetic finish
ASA prints parts with a smooth surface and minimal visible layer lines, resulting in a sleek and aesthetic final product. This is perfect for applications where appearance is a priority, such as consumer products and goods.
What are the downsides of ASA?
Harder to print
If you want to print with ASA, you'll need high print temperatures (240-260°C) and a heated bed set to 90-110°C. This can be a hassle with some 3D printers. Ideally, you should use an enclosed printer to keep temperature fluctuations to a minimum.
It's relatively expensive
It's not quite as pricey as nylon, but it's not cheap compared to ABS and PLA either. This might be a factor for individuals or businesses on a tight budget.
There's less color variety
Basic colors are available, but compared to PLA and ABS, you'll notice there are fewer options. This might limit your choices.
ASA applications
ASA has many potential uses. It's a great choice for things like:
- Outdoor applications; think garden decorations or other weather-resistant prints.
- Functional parts; applications in mechanical and industrial settings.
- Prototyping; for that nice, smooth aesthetic finish, design validation, or test parts.
ASA vs. other filaments
ASA vs. ABS
ASA is more resistant to UV radiation, heat, and weather than ABS. Unlike ABS, it won't easily discolor or become brittle due to sunlight and other weather conditions. ASA is also more resistant to chemicals like acids and bases than ABS.
ABS holds up well too, but not as well as ASA. The mechanical properties of the two filaments are otherwise similar.
Another plus for ASA is that it's less prone to shrinking and warping than ABS. ABS also requires a higher print temperature and a well-ventilated room because of the fumes released during printing. This makes ASA the better choice in terms of printability.
Speaking of printing, the finish on ASA after printing is nicer than that of ABS. ABS can produce smooth surfaces, but they aren't as nice as those of ASA.
ASA sounds pretty good compared to ABS, right? The price, however, isn't in your favor; it's usually just a bit more expensive than ABS.
ASA vs. PLA
How does the most popular filament stack up against ASA? Well, not that great. But that’s exactly what you’re paying for with ASA. PLA is less resistant to UV radiation and weather than ASA. While ASA won't discolor, PLA will.
The mechanical properties of ASA are superior to PLA, as is its chemical resistance. ASA is also easier to print because it is less prone to warping and shrinkage.
Where does PLA come out on top? Eco-friendliness; unlike ASA, PLA is biodegradable. In terms of finish, they’re about equal. And last but not least, price. PLA is cheaper than ASA.
ASA vs. PETG
PETG is reasonably resistant to UV radiation and moisture, but not as good as ASA. Over time, PETG can start to degrade. When it comes to chemical resistance, they are about on par.
PETG is relatively easy to print and has a lower risk of warping and shrinkage than ASA. If you’re printing smooth surfaces, PETG produces a very slick finish. These are slightly glossy and often clearer than ASA. Plus, PETG produces fewer harmful fumes during printing. A point for PETG on the safety front.
In short, ASA is the better choice for outdoor applications and projects that require high mechanical and chemical resistance. PETG is more versatile, easier to print, and offers a good balance between strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance.
Frequently asked questions about ASA filament
What are the advantages of ASA compared to other filaments?
ASA offers superior weather and UV resistance. Its mechanical properties are excellent, and its chemical resistance is top-notch. It is the perfect filament for outdoor applications and functional parts.
What is ASA filament?
ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) is a 3D printing material known for its outstanding weather resistance, UV stability, and mechanical properties.
What are the disadvantages of ASA?
ASA is relatively difficult to print due to high temperature requirements and the emission of harmful fumes. It is more expensive than PLA, PETG, and ABS, and color options are limited.
Can ASA filament be recycled?
ASA is a thermoplastic material and is theoretically recyclable. However, the process is often not easily accessible to consumers, so local options may vary.
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