UV-resistant, weatherproof filament for outdoor applications. Like ABS, but built to last in the sun.
240-260°C
Nozzle Temp
40-60 mm/s
Print Speed
Excellent
UV Resistance
Required
Enclosure
ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) is a thermoplastic similar to ABS, but with superior UV resistance and weatherproofing. It's the go-to material for outdoor functional parts that need to withstand sun, rain, and temperature changes without degrading.
Safety Warning
Like ABS, ASA emits styrene fumes when heated. Always print in a well-ventilated area or use an enclosure with HEPA/activated carbon filtration.
| Setting | Recommended Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nozzle Temperature | 240-260°C | Higher than ABS |
| Bed Temperature | 90-110°C | 100°C ideal |
| Print Speed | 40-60 mm/s | Slower = better adhesion |
| First Layer Speed | 20-30 mm/s | Critical for adhesion |
| Cooling Fan | 0-15% | Minimal cooling |
| Retraction | 1-3 mm (direct), 4-6 mm (Bowden) | Tune for stringing |
| Enclosure | Required | Prevents warping |
| Property | ASA | ABS |
|---|---|---|
| UV Resistance | Excellent | Poor (yellows/cracks) |
| Outdoor Use | Perfect | Not recommended |
| Temperature Resistance | 95°C continuous | 80-90°C continuous |
| Print Temperature | 240-260°C | 230-250°C |
| Warping | Similar (high) | High |
| Price | $25-35/kg | $20-30/kg |
Bottom Line:
Use ASA for anything that will be exposed to sun or weather. Use ABS for indoor functional parts where UV resistance isn't needed.
Bed adhesion: Use ABS slurry (ASA dissolved in acetone) or strong adhesives like 3DLAC
First layer: Print slow (20-30 mm/s) and squish it well for maximum adhesion
Enclosure temp: Aim for 50-60°C chamber temperature if possible
Drying: ASA absorbs moisture. Dry at 70-80°C for 4-6 hours before printing
Acetone smoothing: Works great on ASA, just like ABS
Warping / Corner Lifting
→ Increase bed temp to 110°C, use enclosure, add brim/raft, check first layer squish
Layer Separation / Cracking
→ Increase nozzle temp, reduce cooling, ensure stable chamber temp
Stringing
→ Tune retraction (start at 2mm direct, 5mm Bowden), slightly lower temp
Poor Surface Quality
→ Dry filament, increase temp 5-10°C, reduce print speed
Best for: Outdoor parts, automotive, weatherproof items
Difficulty: Advanced (like ABS)
Alternatives: ABS (indoor), PETG (easier)