Filament is the material for FDM 3D printers. In addition to the most common PLA filament, there are many types. Different types of filament have different characteristics and can meet more diverse printing needs. More and more users are trying to use different filaments, so that they can print 3D prints with different visual effects and functionality. ASA and ABS are two types of filament known for their material properties and are often used to make durable parts. What is the difference between ASA and ABS filaments? What are the advantages of each of them? We will answer these questions to help users who want to learn about ABS filament and ASA filament, and make it easier for them to choose the most suitable filament for 3D printing.
ASA vs ABS Filament: Features
What is ASA Filament? ASA, or acrylonitrile styrene acrylate, is a thermoplastic polymer, and ASA filaments can be used for 3D printing. The biggest advantage of ASA filament is its excellent resistance to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and weather resistance. The good material properties of ASA, coupled with its high thermal stability, make ASA filament an ideal material for outdoor applications.
What is ABS Filament? ABS, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, is used in many industries, and ABS filament is also very popular in the field of 3D printing. The advantages of ABS are high strength and good durability, excellent mechanical properties, and good impact resistance. ABS filament is generally suitable for printing functional prototypes and end-use parts.
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ASA and ABS are both thermoplastics with good properties and they are both very suitable materials for 3D printing applications. These two materials have some common characteristics, such as durability, good impact resistance, and high printing temperature requirements. ASA and ABS filaments also have significant differences in some aspects, such as UV resistance. Based on project needs and different applications, further comparing the differences between these two filaments and evaluating their respective advantages can help you choose a more suitable 3D printing material.
ASA vs ABS Filament: Differences
In the comparison between ASA filament and ABS filament, we first consider the material’s mechanical properties, flexibility, temperature resistance, chemical resistance and UV resistance.
Mechanical properties: The strength of ASA filament is comparable to ABS filament. They both have a certain ability to withstand mechanical stress and are impact resistant.
Flexibility: ABS filament is more flexible than ASA. ABS filament is more flexible and elastic in various conditions. ASA is relatively hard.
UV resistance: ASA filament has enhanced UV resistance, supporting exposure of 3D prints to outdoor conditions and sunlight. UV radiation can cause ABS materials to degrade. ABS filament is prone to fading and brittleness if exposed to sunlight.
Temperature resistance: ASA filament has higher temperature resistance than ABS, and is thermally stable, allowing it to maintain its mechanical properties at higher temperatures. The temperature resistance of ABS filament is less than that of ASA, but better than that of PLA and other filaments.
Chemical resistance: ASA filament and ABS filament have good chemical resistance, better than PLA and other filaments.
ASA and ABS Filament Compared for 3D Printing
In the comparison between ASA and ABS filament, in addition to considering the difference in material properties, it is also necessary to measure their printability, printing temperature, odor during the printing process, etc.
Printing temperature: Both ASA filament and ABS filament have higher requirements for printing temperature. 230°C to 250°C is the common printing temperature for ASA and 220°C to 250°C for ABS. The optimal printing temperature needs to refer to the supplier's recommendations and be tested according to the printing project.
Bed adhesion and warping: Both ASA and ABS require a heated bed during the printing process. ABS is one of the materials that warps very easily. If necessary, special glue can be used to improve bed adhesion. ASA filaments have fewer warping problems in comparison.
Cost and availability: Compared to ASA filament, ABS filament is more popular, affordable, and easier to obtain. The price of ASA is higher, the recommended suppliers include: PolyMaker, Zortrax, Anycubic, etc.
ASA vs ABS Filament: Choose the right material
When making a choice between ASA and ABS filament, the above are common considerations, including material properties and printability. If your 3D prints will be used outdoors, ASA filament is definitely the material that should be chosen. If balancing durability and affordability is a consideration, then trying to print with ABS is a worthwhile challenge. Considering both materials based on your needs and the requirements of your 3D printing project will help you make the best choice.
