ASA filament
(acrylonitrile styrene acrylate)
Basic Info
ASA is a technical material suitable for outdoor use, due to its high UV light and temperature resistance. Unlike other materials soluble in more dangerous chemicals, ASA can be dissolved in acetone. The main disadvantage of this material is significant warping, which requires printing at higher ambient temperatures.
Description
ASA filament (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) is the perfect all-purpose 3D printing thermoplastic, suitable for many different applications. It has a similar chemical makeup to ABS plastic but offers three improvements: better mechanical properties, superior aesthetics and it’s UV resistant. ASA printing requires specific conditions for successful results. It’s important to run the prints in a well-ventilated room because the material releases fumes and substances that could pose a potential health risk. However, when ventilating the room, do not create a draft around the print – this will negatively impact the result.
Chart
Pros and Cons of using ASA
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong UV resistance | Releases potentially dangerous fumes |
| Strong chemical resistance | More expensive in comparison to other 3D printing filaments |
| Water-resistant | Consumes a lot of energy for printing |
| High impact resistance | Parts can warp and shrink |
Applications
Automotive Exterior Parts:
As compared to other materials available in the market for the creation of automotive exterior parts, the ASA is relatively cheaper with a plethora of features. With regards to automotive applications, the ASA filament can be easily used for creating a prototype of parts such as bumper covers, housing for side view mirrors, dashboard holders, or grilles.
Tooling:
Printing with the ASA filament results in the production of sturdy yet lightweight parts. So, if you are in need of tools, ASA filament can be used for such 3D printing requirements. With this filament, you can print yourself ergonomic grips/handles, assembly jigs & fixtures, tool caddies, dunnage, and so much more.
Outdoor Applications:
Apart from the applications mentioned above, the ASA filament is something that can be used outdoors without any probable issue. Given its resistance to the Sun’s UV rays, it is optimally suited to be used for outdoor needs. If you are someone who wants to build their very own garden from scratch, you can build some cute and exclusively customized flower pots with the ASA filament.
Sources :
https://help.prusa3d.com/article/asa_1809
https://www.stratasys.co.in/materials/materials-catalog/fdm-materials/asa/#:~:text=ASA%20filament%20(acrylonitrile%20styrene%20acrylate,aesthetics%20and%20it’s%20UV%20resistant.
3D Printing: Understanding more about ASA filament applications
https://all3dp.com/2/asa-filament-explained-and-compared/#:~:text=ASA%20has%20many%20of%20the,very%20heat%2Dresistant%20and%20durable.