Today, we bring to the table a discussion that has been lingering in the 3D printing sphere for quite a while - ABS vs. ASA. The dynamic world of 3D printing is ever-evolving, and as a community of makers, it is imperative to stay abreast of the materials that drive this revolution.

The Ultimate Guide to ABS and ASA Filament in 3D Printing

In the constantly evolving landscape of 3D printing, the choices of printing materials can often be overwhelming. Today, we delve deep into the characteristics, applications, and nuances of two popular thermoplastics in the 3D printing industry: ABS and ASA. Whether you are a seasoned 3D printing professional or a newcomer eager to learn, this guide serves to enlighten you on the ABS vs. ASA debate, equipping you with the knowledge to make informed choices for your 3D printing projects. Let's jump in!

ABS: The Time-Tested Champion in 3D Printing

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, popularly known as ABS, has been a prominent player in the 3D printing materials market, favored for its robust and durable nature. Let's unravel the features that make ABS a choice of many:

  • Durability and Strength From automotive parts to consumer goods, the strong resistance ABS provides against physical impacts renders it ideal for a myriad of 3D printing applications.

  • Temperature Resistance A popular choice in the automotive industry, ABS boasts high-temperature resistance, an essential property for components exposed to heat.

  • Post-Processing Easy to sand and smooth with acetone, ABS allows 3D printing enthusiasts to achieve a polished, professional finish on their projects.

  • Availability ABS filament is easily accessible, available in various colors to fuel your 3D printing creativity.


From automotive parts to consumer goods, the strong resistance ABS provides against physical impacts renders it ideal for a myriad of 3D printing applications.
From automotive parts to consumer goods, the strong resistance ABS provides against physical impacts renders it ideal for a myriad of 3D printing applications.

ASA: The Emerging Favorite in the 3D Printing Community

Stepping into the spotlight is Acrylic Styrene Acrylonitrile, or ASA. Bearing similarities to ABS, ASA comes with its distinctive attributes that are fast gaining traction among 3D printing enthusiasts worldwide:

  • UV Resistance Ideal for outdoor applications, ASA resists yellowing and brittleness, retaining its properties even under prolonged exposure to UV rays, a quality sought after in drone and automotive exterior applications.

  • Mechanical Robustness ASA showcases commendable mechanical properties, vouching for reliable and functional prototypes and end-use products, a feature leveraged in manufacturing robust tools and fixtures.

  • Better Surface Finish ASA promises less warping and a superior surface finish compared to ABS, offering aesthetic and functional benefits in 3D printed products.

  • Environmentally Friendly With fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted during the printing process, ASA stands as an eco-friendlier alternative to ABS, aligning with the increasing shift towards green manufacturing practices in the 3D printing industry.


Ideal for outdoor applications, ASA resists yellowing and brittleness, retaining its properties even under prolonged exposure to UV rays, a quality sought after in drone and automotive exterior applications.
Ideal for outdoor applications, ASA resists yellowing and brittleness, retaining its properties even under prolonged exposure to UV rays, a quality sought after in drone and automotive exterior applications.

ABS vs ASA: Making the Informed Choice in 3D Printing

When it comes to choosing between ABS and ASA for your 3D printing endeavors, considering the specific requirements of your project is key:

  • Outdoor Applications Leverage ASA's remarkable UV resistance for outdoor projects to ensure longevity and maintain the quality over time.

  • Prototyping Whether you are prototyping for automotive applications or creating models for your next big invention, both ABS and ASA offer robust solutions to bring your ideas to life.

  • Environmental Sustainability For the environmentally conscious creators, opting for ASA can be a step towards sustainable 3D printing, courtesy of its lower VOC emissions.


MatterHackers Exclusive: Tips to Succeed with ASA Printing

To help you navigate the ASA printing process successfully, we have compiled a set of exclusive MatterHackers tips:

Printing Environment

Ensure a well-ventilated space to work with ASA, mitigating the unpleasant fumes that may arise during the printing process, and safeguarding your health.

Bed Adhesion

Secure excellent bed adhesion using high-quality solutions such as Magigoo or PEI sheets, preventing warping and facilitating a successful 3D print.

Temperature Settings

Optimize your temperature settings, keeping the nozzle between 230-260°C and the bed temperature at around 90-110°C, to ensure high-quality ASA prints.

Post-Processing

Enhance your ASA prints through post-processing; consider sanding followed by acetone smoothing to achieve a refined and professional finish.

Storage

Extend the life of your ASA filament by storing it in a cool, dry place, ideally accompanied by a desiccant to prevent moisture absorption.

Conclusion

As we navigate the world of 3D printing materials, ABS and ASA emerge as two potent contenders, each with a unique set of attributes to offer. Whether it's the tried and tested reliability of ABS or the modern, eco-friendly approach of ASA, understanding the nuances of both can guide you to make informed choices in your 3D printing projects.

Feel equipped to embark on your 3D printing journey, leveraging the strengths of both ABS and ASA, and take your 3D printing endeavors to new heights with MatterHackers insights.

Until our next deep dive, happy printing, dear makers!