ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) are both thermoplastics commonly used for 3D printing. Although they share some similarities, there are important differences to consider when choosing which filament to use for a project.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene):
- Properties: ABS is a strong, durable plastic with some flexibility. It is known for its high impact resistance and toughness.
- Print Temperature: It typically prints at temperatures between 210°C and 250°C.
- Thermal Properties: ABS has a high melting point and is somewhat resistant to high temperatures.
- Ease of Use: It can be more challenging to print with due to its tendency to warp and shrink if cooled too rapidly; thus, it often requires a heated bed and an enclosure to control the printing environment.
- Finish and Appearance: Printed parts can be sanded and are suitable for post-process finishing like painting or acetone smoothing for a glossy surface.
- Applications: It is used in a wide range of applications, ranging from automotive components to consumer goods.
- Environment: ABS emits fumes when printed; therefore, adequate ventilation is necessary.
ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate):
- Properties: ASA shares many properties with ABS, including durability and resistance to impact, but it has increased resistance to UV light and weather; it does not yellow over time as ABS does.
- Print Temperature: ASA also prints in a similar temperature range to ABS, usually between 235°C and 260°C.
- Thermal Properties: While it has a high melting point similar to ABS, ASA sustains its properties better in sunlight and outdoor conditions.
- Ease of Use: It may be less prone to warping compared to ABS, but it still requires a heated bed and ideally an enclosed print space to minimize warping.
- Finish and Appearance: ASA finishing is similar to ABS, though its UV resistance helps maintain color and integrity over time.
- Applications: Due to its UV stability, it is preferable for outdoor applications, including automotive exteriors, garden equipment, or outdoor sports gear.
- Environment: Like ABS, ASA emits fumes during printing, so good ventilation is essential.
In summary, the choice between ABS and ASA often comes down to the intended application. If the part will be exposed to the elements, particularly UV rays from sunlight, ASA will often be the superior choice despite potentially higher costs. If the part is intended for general use where UV exposure is not a concern, ABS might be preferred due to its long-standing use, availability, and cost-effectiveness.
Regardless of the choice between ABS and ASA, both materials require similar print settings, such as a heated print bed and an enclosed build chamber to prevent warping. They also both benefit from proper ventilation during printing to handle fumes effectively.