ASA or ABS filament for 3D printer: How to choose material for 3D printing?

In the world of 3D printing, choosing the right filament can be crucial for the quality, strength, and durability of your parts. Among the most popular materials (filaments) for 3D printers used in projects requiring greater resistance and mechanical strength are ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) and ASA (acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate). These two 3D printer filaments are favored by professionals and enthusiasts looking for more durable parts and a wider range of applications compared to more basic filaments like PLA. Whether you want to find the right filament for your 3D printer or are choosing a material for order through 3D printing service, here you will find detailed information and a comparison of ASA and ABS.

The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive, informative, and interesting perspective on the two filaments, so that you can make the best choice for your needs, whether it is for 3D printing at home, in the office, or in an industrial environment.

What is ABS filament for 3D printer?

ABS is one of the most widely used materials in 3D printing, thanks to its strength, impact resistance, and widespread application in the industry.

• ABS Characteristics:
  
  • Extrusion temperature: usually between 220°C and 250°C.
  • Print bed: ~90–110°C for optimal adhesion.
  • A good combination of hardness and flexibility.
  • Easy mechanical processing (grinding, drilling).
  • "Plasticity of acetone, which allows for surface smoothing."

Although ABS is more complex to print than PLA due to its tendency to warp with a sharp drop in temperature, it remains the first choice for functional parts and industrial applications, especially when the final product is not exposed to prolonged direct sunlight and atmospheric influences.
The ABS filament for 3D printers that we recommend is 3DPower ABS.

What is ASA filament for 3D printer?

ASA was created as an alternative or rather an upgrade over ABS, with similar mechanical properties, but with much better resistance to atmospheric conditions and UV rays. Here are some of its key characteristics:

• Excellent resistance to sunlight exposure: does not yellow, does not crack, and does not lose its mechanical properties so quickly.
• Similar strength to ABS, but often a little higher.
• Similar printing parameters – high extrusion temperature (230–260°C) and heated platform (around 90–110°C).
• Uniform adhesion between layers and a lower tendency to delaminate.

Thanks to this atmospheric resistance, ASA is often used for outdoor structures, automotive components, garden tools, and anything that needs to withstand long-term outdoor exposure.
The ASA filament for 3D printer that we recommend is POLYLITE™ ASA.

Chemical composition and main mechanical properties

Both ABS and ASA are thermoplastic polymers, where the final product is obtained after heating and extruding through the nozzle of a 3D printer. The difference lies mainly in the type of monomer that replaces butadiene or part of styrene in ASA, making it more resistant to oxidation and degradation from UV rays.

At ABS:

• A (Acrylonitrile) – contributes to chemical resistance and better thermal stability.
• B (Butadiene) – provides flexibility and better impact resistance.
• S (Styrene) – gives hardness and a smooth appearance to the part.

At ASA:

• A (Acrylonitrile) – again provides thermal stability.
• S (Styrene) – provides hardness and good machinability.
• A (Acrylate) – replaces butadiene, improving resistance to weather conditions and UV rays.

It is this chemical difference in the last component that makes ASA preferred for outdoor applications.

Advantages of ABS

1. Affordable price: ABS is mass-produced, which is why it is often cheaper and easily available in a wide range of colors and brands.
2. Good health and durability: It can withstand strong impacts and mechanical loads without breaking easily.
3. Easy subsequent processing: The details can be ground, drilled, and even glued with acetone, which dissolves the surface layer and creates a chemical bond.
4. Popular material: Suitable for the production of electronic enclosures, prototypes, toys (for example, LEGO is made of ABS) and various functional parts.

Advantages of ASA

1. High UV resistance: ASA does not lose color and mechanical properties, even under intense sunlight.
2. Excellent atmospheric durability: Parts made from ASA are less susceptible to cracking under various temperature changes, rain, and prolonged outdoor exposure.
3. Similar mechanical properties of ABS: Comparable strength and hardness, making it versatile for a range of applications.
4. Better adhesion between layers: For many users, ASA deforms (warps) a little more difficultly than ABS, although maintaining a constant temperature remains important here.

Disadvantages and challenges in printing

ABS:

• Warp effect: With large details and/or a sharp change in temperature, warping and detachment from the platform may occur.
• Weak UV resistance: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight leads to yellowing and brittleness.
• Need for a closed chamber: To achieve stable results, the 3D printer often needs to have a cover or an enclosed box that retains heat.

ASA:

• Higher price: As a new and more specialized filament, ASA is generally more expensive than ABS.
• Temperature requirements: Similar to ABS, ASA also requires a higher nozzle temperature and heated platform, and often environmental control (enclosed chamber).
• Still possible warp: Although to a lesser extent, ASA is not completely immune to warping with incorrect settings.

Settings for successful 3D printing with ABS

1. Nozzle Temperature: Average between 220°C and 250°C. Always check the recommendations of the filament manufacturer.
2. Heated platform: About 90–110°C. It is necessary for proper adhesion of the first layer and reduction of warp.
3. Closed chamber: Recommended for larger details, as the uniform temperature in the printing area reduces the likelihood of warping.
4. Limited airflow: Try to avoid drafts around the printer, as this sharply cools the upper layer and can cause delamination.
5. Adhesive surface: You can use adhesive sticks, Kapton tape, or a build plate (PEI, glass with adhesive) for better grip.

Settings for successful 3D printing with ASA

1. Temperature at the nozzle: Often in the range of 230–260°C. Many manufacturers recommend specific values, so follow the instructions on the packaging.
2. Heated platform: 90–110°C. Similar to ABS, maintaining a stable temperature for the first layer is critical for success.
3. Closed chamber or protectors: If you have a cover or device that retains heat, the likelihood of deformation decreases drastically.
4. Controlled cooling: A weak fan is usually recommended at the beginning and a gradual control of the airflow. An excessively strong flow of cold air can lead to cracking of the layers.
5. Check the retraction settings: Since ASA tends to form "strings" (stringing) with improper settings, experiment carefully with retraction.

Applications and real examples

• ABS for indoor functional details:
  
  • Enclosures for electronics and robotics.
  • Prototypes in automotive engineering (interior parts of the body).
  • Toys and figures that withstand intensive use.
  • Prosthetics and orthopedic braces (mainly for temporary use or for testing).
• ASA for outdoor structures and UV-resistant projects:
  
  • Car parts exposed to the sun (side mirrors, trims, covers).
  • Garden tools, plant stands, fence elements.
  • Signs and indicators that must be legible and durable even in rain and sun.
  • Architectural models for outdoor exhibition and park equipment.

"The choice between the two materials mainly depends on the location where the final details will be used, as well as the budget you have available. For permanent outdoor use, ASA outperforms ABS, but if you are looking for a durable, budget-friendly, and easily accessible option for indoor applications, ABS remains the favorite."

Post-print processing and finishing processes

Grinding and polishing

Both with ABS and ASA, you can sand or polish the surface to achieve a smoother finish. It is recommended to start with a coarser sandpaper (e.g., 200–400) and gradually move to a finer one (800–1000+) if you want a really smooth surface.

Smoothing with acetone

ABS is the classic example of chemical smoothing with acetone vapors – the acetone vapors dissolve the surface layer of the part and give it a shiny, almost factory-like appearance, while simultaneously erasing the visible layers from printing. With ASA, a similar technique can be used, although some brands have less interaction with acetone or require more time to achieve a visible effect.

Painting and priming

The two materials allow for painting with acrylic and other types of paints, as long as the surface is well cleaned and, if necessary, primed beforehand. ABS and ASA are excellent bases for further visual enhancements, especially when specific colors or finishes are needed.

Safety and environmental aspects

ABS and ASA emit vapors (mainly styrene) at higher temperatures. Therefore:

• The 3D printer should be in a well-ventilated room or have filters.
• "If possible, use a closed chamber with an air filter or extractor to minimize harmful emissions."
• When smoothing with acetone, work with a mask and gloves, and also ensure adequate ventilation.

From an ecological point of view, both ABS and ASA are not as biodegradable as PLA. They can be recycled in certain places, but this process is more complex. If sustainability and safety are extremely important to you, you may want to look for recycled options of these filaments or alternative biodegradable solutions. Nevertheless, for applications requiring 3D printing with high strength, abrasion resistance, and durability, ABS and ASA are the preferred choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which 3D printer is suitable for ASA or ABS?
"The most suitable 3D printers for these two materials are closed printers, such as Creality k2 Plus, Crealit K1C, Creality K1 Max, Bambu Lab X1C, Bambu Lab P1S, and many others."

Which is easier to print – ABS or ASA?
"Both materials have similar requirements for high temperature, heated platform, and controlled environment. In some cases, ASA may deform slightly less often, but it is still not as 'easy' as PLA."

2. Can I use the same settings for ABS and ASA?
"To a large extent, yes, but most manufacturers provide specific guidelines for the nozzle temperature, platform, and cooling. Settings suitable for one brand of ABS may not be optimal for another brand of ASA, so always test."

3. Why is ASA more expensive?
ASA is a more modern material with added value – higher UV resistance and atmospheric protection. The manufacturing process is more complex, which also explains its higher market price.

4. How can I avoid the unpleasant smell and vapors?
Use a 3D printer in a well-ventilated area, aim for a closed chamber with a filtration system or extractor. Wear a mask and gloves when working with chemical solvents such as acetone.

5. Are ABS and ASA suitable for complete beginners?
"It is better for beginners to start with PLA or PETG, which have a lower extrusion temperature and fewer warping issues. However, with some experience and the right equipment, ABS and ASA become accessible to anyone who desires a strong and professional result."

Conclusion

The choice between ABS filament and ASA filament depends on a number of factors: the location of use of the part, budget, required UV resistance, thermal and mechanical loads. If you are looking for a durable, affordable, and widely used material for a 3D printer that will be used mainly indoors, ABS is a classic solution. If your projects require long-lasting UV resistance and weather resistance, ASA is more suitable, although it comes at a higher price.

Both materials offer high strength, good adhesion between layers (with appropriate settings), and the possibility for rich post-processing. The placement of the 3D printer in a closed and controlled environment, as well as the precise settings of the nozzle and platform temperature, are key to achieving perfect results. Safety should also not be underestimated, as both ABS and ASA can emit irritating or even potentially harmful fumes during printing.

Regardless of which material you choose – ABS or ASA – with the right configuration, temperature control, and fan settings, you can achieve professional, durable, and long-lasting 3D details. If you want to acquire high-quality ASA filaments, ABS filaments, and other consumables, visit 3dlarge.com, where you will find a wide selection of materials and filaments for 3D printers.

Ultimately, success in 3D printing depends on your ability to combine knowledge of the material (chemical composition and properties), printer settings (temperature, speed, cooling), as well as environmental conditions (ventilation, temperature, and humidity). With the right approach and patience, ABS and ASA can take you to a whole new level in the world of strong and durable 3D parts.