ASA

(Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate)

ASA

(Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate)

ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) is a high-performance 3D printing filament known for its UV resistance, weather durability, and mechanical strength. It was developed as an alternative to ABS, offering similar properties with improved outdoor performance.

Polymaker ASA Print Profile

General Settings:

Hot End Temperature: 240–260°C (Recommended: 250°C)
Bed Temperature: 90–110°C (Recommended: 100°C)\
Print Speed: 30–60 mm/s\
Cooling Fan: Off or ≤20% (only use if stringing is excessive)
Retraction (Direct Drive): 1–2 mm @ 25–40 mm/s
Retraction (Bowden): 4–6 mm @ 35–50 mm/s
Enclosure: Strongly recommended to prevent warping and cracking

Additional Settings:

Layer Height: 0.15–0.25 mm
First Layer Speed: 15–20 mm/s
Infill: 15–50% (based on strength needs)
Bed Adhesion: PEI sheet, glue stick, or ABS slurry on glass
Z-Hop: Optional (0.2 mm can help avoid nozzle drag)

Troubleshooting & Tips:

Warping? Use an enclosure, increase bed temperature, and use a brim or raft.
Layer Cracking? Increase nozzle temp and limit fan usage.
Poor Bed Adhesion? Could you clean the bed thoroughly and reduce the first layer speed?
Stringing? Lower the nozzle temperature slightly and fine-tune the retraction settings.
Post-Processing: ASA can be smoothed using acetone vapor for a glossy finish and improved layer bonding.

What is ASA used for?

Outdoor Enclosures & Housings
Its resistance to sunlight and moisture makes it ideal for electrical boxes, weatherproof casings, and outdoor fixtures.
Automotive Parts
Commonly used for trim, mirror housings, and dashboard components due to its durability and temperature resistance.
Garden Tools & Equipment
ASA can handle varying weather conditions, so it's great for parts exposed to rain, sun, and wind.
Signage & Displays
ASA maintains its color and strength over time, making it a favorite for outdoor signs and displays.
Prototypes & Functional Parts
It's a strong choice for functional prototypes that need impact resistance and dimensional stability, especially when UV exposure is a concern.

ASA VS ABS

1. UV Resistance

ASA is highly UV resistant, making it perfect for outdoor use.
ABS tends to yellow and degrade with prolonged sun exposure.

2. Weather Resistance

ASA holds up better against rain, temperature changes, and harsh environments.
ABS can become brittle over time when exposed to moisture and varying weather.

3. Surface Finish

ASA has a smoother, more matte-like finish that resists fading.
ABS can be post-processed easily with acetone to get a glossy, smooth finish.

4. Strength and Durability

Both filaments are strong and durable, but ASA edges out in long-term durability, especially outdoors.
ABS performs well indoors or in controlled environments.

5. Ease of Printing

ASA is slightly harder to print—more sensitive to warping and needs good ventilation.
ABS is also prone to warping but is generally a bit easier to dial in.

6. Applications

ASA is better for outdoor parts, automotive components, and weather-exposed prints.
ABS is great for indoor functional parts, prototyping, and heat-resistant items.

ASA VS PETG

1. Weather & UV Resistance

ASA is designed for outdoor use. It resists UV light, rain, and temperature fluctuations without fading, cracking, or becoming brittle.
PETG handles moisture better than most filaments but is not UV resistant. It can yellow or degrade with prolonged sun exposure.

2. Strength & Durability

ASA is strong, impact-resistant, and holds its properties well over time, especially in rough environments.
PETG offers a great balance of strength and flexibility. It’s less brittle than PLA and easier to print than ABS or ASA.

3. Printability

ASA is more challenging to print. It requires a heated bed, an enclosed chamber (ideally), and good ventilation due to potential fumes. Warping is common if settings aren't dialed in.
PETG is relatively easy to print. It sticks well to the bed and warps far less than ASA, though stringing and oozing can be an issue if retraction settings aren’t tuned.

4. Finish & Appearance

ASA tends to have a matte, professional finish that resists fading.
PETG usually has a glossy, slightly transparent, or smooth surface finish.

5. Applications

ASA is ideal for outdoor parts, automotive components, gardening tools, and any prints exposed to weather.
PETG is great for functional prints, mechanical parts, containers, or any item that may see stress but stays indoors or out of direct sunlight.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse