ASA (acrylic ester-styrene-acrylonitrile) is a copolymer that has properties similar to ABS and is therefore very resistant to mechanical influences and aqueous chemicals. This thermoplastic is scratch-resistant, UV and weather-resistant and extremely impact-resistant. This means that 3D printed components made from an ASA filament can absorb a certain amount of shock and impact energy without breaking.
In addition, this high-quality thermoplastic is characterized by high UV and weather resistance. It is therefore particularly suitable for the production of prototypes that are to be tested over longer phases, and for the production of ready-to-use end solutions for outdoor use. There are many possible uses: housing or housing components, panels, control panels, brackets, sporting goods and prototypes for the automotive industry.
Processing parameters:
| Extrusion temperature: | 240 – 260 °C |
| Platform temperature: | 90 °C – 110 °C |
| Printing surface: | Kapton |
Although ASA, as an amorphous plastic, has lower shrinkage values than semi-crystalline plastics, “warping” can occur when printing at room temperature. To avoid this, it makes sense to enclose the installation space. In addition, a closed installation space protects the component against air currents, which can cause it to cool down irregularly and lead to stress cracks between the layers. Active control of the installation space temperature ensures consistent results and high repeatability.
A wide range of post-processing methods is available for ASA. The plastic can be welded, glued, screwed directly or with an inset, as well as machined. It is also possible, if necessary, to paint ASA, but the surface of the 3D printed component should be sealed beforehand.
Since ASA is chemically very similar to ABS, it behaves almost identically with regard to solvents. It is resistant to diluted acids, diluted alkalis and oils and can be dissolved in esters and ketones (especially acetone).
ASA is characterized above all by its good heat resistance (100 ° C) and weather resistance. Surfaces made from ASA no longer have to be painted and are also characterized by good resistance to scratches. As a result, ASA is often used outdoors, for example as cladding in the automotive sector or in seafaring, or other areas that require high UV resistance.