ASA

What is ASA and why choose it?

ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) is an engineering thermoplastic often described as the superior alternative to ABS for outdoor applications. It shares most of the mechanical properties of ABS (strength, high thermal resistance) but adds a crucial advantage: excellent resistance to UV rays and weathering.

 
1. Exceptional UV resistance: Unlike ABS, it does not yellow or become brittle when exposed to sunlight.

 

2. High thermal resistance: maintains its strength at high temperatures (approx. 100°C).

 

3. Mechanical robustness: Highly resistant to impact and wear.

 

4. Weather resistance: withstands humidity and temperature variations.

Essential technical characteristics

 
• Available diameters: 1.75mm & (2.85mm on request - 10kg min)

 

• Extrusion temperature: 240-260°C

 

• Plateau temperature: 90-110°C (Essential)

Is ASA the right choice for your project?

ASA is a demanding material, similar to ABS, but its properties make it irreplaceable for specific uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

 
1. ASA vs ABS: when to choose? It's quite simple. If your part will be used outdoors and exposed to the sun, choose ASA. For an indoor mechanical part,ABS (often less expensive) may suffice.

 

2. ASA vs PETG? PETG is easier to print and more UV-resistant than ABS, but ASA offers superior thermal and mechanical resistance. For highly exposed technical parts, ASA remains the best choice.

 

3. Do I need a closed box? Yes. Like ABS, ASA is highly susceptible to warping and cracking. A closed, heated enclosure is essential to maintain a stable ambient temperature.

 

4. What about odors? ASA gives off a styrene odor during printing. It is imperative to print in a well-ventilated room or use an air filtration system.

Common applications of ASA

 
• Automotive parts (mirror caps, grilles)

 

• Garden and outdoor accessories

 

• Weather sensor housings

 

• Solar panel supports

 

• Functional parts exposed to the elements

Printing tips: ASA requirements

 
1. Closed enclosure (Caisson): Indispensable. Maintaining a stable ambient temperature (ideally > 40°C) is the key to successful printing.

 

2. Heated platen: Mandatory, set between 90°C and 110°C to ensure perfect adhesion.

 

3. Adhesion: Use an adhesion solution (lacquer, glue, "ABS/ASA juice") on a glass plate or smooth PEI sheet.

 

4. Room ventilation: Deactivate the room cooling fan (except for bridges) and ensure excellent ventilation of the room where you're printing.

Quick comparison: ASA vs. other filaments

Francofil's commitment to quality and French manufacturing

Like all our technical filaments, our ASA is entirely manufactured and controlled in our workshop in Normandy. We use the highest quality ASA granules to guarantee a consistent, reliable filament, enabling you to succeed with your most demanding prints. Choosing Francofil means opting for the traceability and expertise of a French manufacturer.