ASA Filament: Everything You Need to Know

In the dynamic landscape of 3D printing, the choice of filament significantly impacts the success of your projects. Among the diverse array of options, ASA filament has emerged as a noteworthy contender due to its exceptional properties and versatile applications. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deeper into the intricacies of ASA filament, covering aspects such as its composition, key properties, practical applications, and essential tips for optimal printing.

What is ASA?

ASA filament and a 3D printed model. Image source: IndiaMART

ASA, or Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate, represents a thermoplastic polymer celebrated for its remarkable durability and weather resistance. 

It was developed as an improvement over ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), and its chemical composition combines acrylonitrile for strength, styrene for a glossy finish, and acrylate for increased flexibility.

How to Store ASA

To maintain the quality of ASA filament, it is important to store it properly:

• Dry Environment: Store ASA in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture absorption, which can negatively impact print quality.
• Sealed Container: Keep ASA filament in a sealed container when not in use to minimize exposure to air and humidity.

Production and Characteristics of ASA

Different color ASA Filament wounded in the plastic rings. Image source: EuroPlas

Production:

• ASA is produced through a copolymerization process involving acrylonitrile, styrene, and acrylate monomers.
• The production process results in a polymer with a balance of properties from each monomer, providing enhanced UV resistance and weatherability.

Characteristics:

• UV Resistance: ASA exhibits excellent UV resistance, making it suitable for outdoor applications without significant degradation.
• Weatherability: It maintains its properties in various weather conditions, including exposure to rain and sunlight.
• Mechanical Strength: ASA combines mechanical strength with impact resistance, providing durable prints.
• Thermal Resistance: The filament has good thermal resistance, allowing it to withstand a range of temperatures without significant deformation.

Key Properties of ASA Filament

• UV Resistance: ASA's standout feature is its ability to resist the degrading effects of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. This makes it an excellent choice for 3D-printed objects intended for outdoor use, as it maintains its structural integrity and color over time.

• Weather Resistance: It excels in challenging weather conditions, resisting the impact of rain, snow, and temperature fluctuations. This makes it suitable for creating durable prototypes, signage, and components exposed to the elements.

• Chemical Resistance: ASA demonstrates resistance to various chemicals, ensuring stability when used in environments with potential exposure to solvents or other corrosive substances.

• High Impact Strength: Its toughness and impact resistance make it a reliable choice for producing robust parts that can withstand mechanical stress.

Applications of ASA Filament

Raise3D premium ASA filament. Image source: Raise3D

1. Outdoor Prototyping

ASA filament's superior UV-resistant and waterproof qualities make it an ideal choice for creating prototypes and functional parts intended for outdoor use. This includes architectural models, garden equipment components, and automotive parts.

2. Signage and Displays

The glossy finish and color stability of ASA make it well-suited for signage and displays. Whether you're creating eye-catching storefront signs or informational plaques, ASA's durability ensures longevity and visual appeal.

3. Automotive Components

Its high impact strength and resistance to environmental factors make it a popular choice for manufacturing automotive components. From exterior trim pieces to interior components, ASA can withstand the demanding conditions within and outside a vehicle.

4. Recreational Equipment

Outdoor recreational equipment, such as sports gear and camping accessories, benefits from ASA's durability. Its ability to resist the elements ensures that 3D-printed items remain reliable and intact during regular use.

Tips for Printing with ASA Filament

1. Printer Settings

To achieve optimal results with ASA filament, it's essential to adjust your 3D printer settings. ASA generally requires higher printing temperatures compared to PLA or ABS. A nozzle temperature of around 240-260°C is common, and the heated bed should be set between 80-100°C.

2. Ventilation

As with many thermoplastics, printing with ASA may release fumes that can be unpleasant or even harmful. Ensure that your 3D printer is placed in a well-ventilated area, or consider using an enclosure with an effective ventilation system.

3. Printing Speed

Moderate your printing speed when using ASA filament to minimize issues like warping. Slower printing speeds allow for better layer adhesion and reduce the chances of thermal stress affecting the printed object.

4. Enclosure

Using an enclosure can help maintain a stable printing environment for ASA. This helps prevent temperature fluctuations, reducing the risk of warping or layer separation.

5. Post-Processing

After printing, consider post-processing techniques to enhance the aesthetic appeal of ASA prints. Sanding and polishing can provide a smoother finish, and painting is an option for adding customized colors.

ABS vs. ASA: Which one to choose?

1. Properties:

• ABS: ABS is known for its strength and impact resistance. It has good thermal resistance and is relatively easy to process.
• ASA: ASA combines the strength of ABS with improved UV resistance and weatherability. It is better suited for outdoor applications due to its ability to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight.

1. UV Resistance:

• ABS: ABS tends to degrade when exposed to sunlight over time, making it less suitable for outdoor applications.
• ASA: ASA is designed to resist UV degradation, making it a better choice for projects that will be exposed to sunlight.

1. Weather Resistance:

• ABS: ABS may experience color fading and reduced mechanical properties when exposed to weather conditions.
• ASA: ASA performs well in outdoor environments, maintaining its color and mechanical properties over extended periods.

1. Printing Temperature:

• ABS: ABS typically requires higher printing temperatures, around 220-250°C.
• ASA: ASA has a printing temperature range similar to ABS, making it compatible with many 3D printers.

Versatility and Durability with ASA Filament 

ASA filament stands out as a robust and reliable option for 3D printing, especially in applications requiring durability, weather resistance, and UV stability. From outdoor prototypes to automotive components, the versatility of ASA makes it a valuable addition to any 3D printing enthusiast's filament collection. 

By understanding its properties and applications and implementing proper printing techniques, you can unlock the full potential of ASA filament for your creative projects. Stay tuned for more updates on the exciting world of 3D printing materials!

Having looked at ASA filament, it’s also good to have a look at the best 3D printing software. There are many that are available but we recommend using SelfCAD. SelfCAD is an easy to use 3D modeling software that comes with 3D printing tools like the magic fix for fixing meshes and ensuring that designs are ready for 3D printing. The video below shows how the magic fix tool works.

[Embed this video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQtPE_79Apk&t=944s ]

In addition to magic fix tool it also comes with its own in-built online slicer that is useful for slicing designs. Get to know how the slicer of SelfCAD works in the video below.

[Embed this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpf38aMk8d8&t=680s ]

FAQs

1. What is ASA filament, and how does it differ from ABS?

1. ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) is a thermoplastic filament used in 3D printing. It differs from ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) by offering improved UV resistance and weatherability, making it suitable for outdoor applications.

2. What are the key properties of ASA filament?

1. ASA filament possesses a balance of mechanical strength, impact resistance, UV resistance, and weatherability. It is known for maintaining its color and properties even when exposed to sunlight and harsh weather conditions.

3. Can ASA be used for outdoor 3D printing projects?

1. Yes, ASA is an excellent choice for outdoor applications due to its enhanced UV resistance and ability to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight and various weather conditions.

4. How does ASA compare to ABS in terms of printing temperature?

1. ASA and ABS have similar printing temperature ranges, typically between 220-250°C. This makes ASA compatible with many 3D printers designed for ABS.

5. What precautions should be taken when storing ASA filament?

1. To maintain the quality of ASA filament, store it in a cool, dry place. Use a sealed container when not in use to prevent moisture absorption, which can negatively impact print quality.