What To Look For in ASA Filaments
ASA filaments are thermoplastic polymers that blend the properties of acrylonitrile, styrene, and acrylate. They have a glossy finish and come in a variety of colors. Moreover, they’re similar to ABS filaments but offer superior weather and UV resistance. They also have a high melting point, making them suitable for printing high-temperature parts.
Choosing the right ASA filament for your 3D printing project can be complex. With an overwhelming number of options available, it can take time to determine which filament best fits your needs. To help you, here are the essential factors to consider:
1. Print Temperature Range
ASA filaments have a higher printing temperature range than PLA and ABS filaments, typically 230–260 °C. Therefore, choosing a filament with a suitable temperature range for your 3D printer is essential to ensure that your prints are successful. Additionally, these filaments are temperature-sensitive, meaning they may require a heated bed or enclosure to print correctly.
2. Print Bed Adhesion
These filaments tend to shrink and warp, resulting in the print detaching from the bed or distorting during the process. To prevent this, you can use adhesive sprays or specialized bed sheets to improve adhesion. Maintaining a level and clean print bed is crucial to ensure optimal adhesion before initiating printing.
3. Diameter and Tolerance
Choosing a filament with an appropriate diameter for your 3D printer’s extruder is essential. If the filament diameter is too small, it may cause under-extrusion and gaps in your print. Conversely, if the diameter is too large, it can cause over-extrusion and lead to clogs in your extruder.
Furthermore, the tolerance of the filament refers to the deviation from the stated diameter. Therefore, choosing a filament with a low tolerance can ensure consistency in your prints.
4. Filament Color and Finish
The color and finish of your ASA filament can impact the final aesthetic appeal of your 3D prints. While color may not be a significant concern for functional parts, it can be essential for decorative items. In addition, certain applications may require specific finishes, such as matte or glossy.
5. Cost
When comparing the cost of ASA filament to other filaments, it’s important to consider the price per unit of volume rather than just the overall cost of the spool. Some brands may offer larger spools at a higher cost, but it may not necessarily be more cost-effective than a smaller spool from a different brand.
It’s also important to consider the overall cost of 3D printing, including the cost of the 3D printer, maintenance, electricity, and other associated costs. ASA filament may cost more, but it’s worth considering if you need its specific properties for your project. In the long run, it could save you time and money.
Elevate Your 3D Printing Experience With Terrafilum’s Eco-Friendly Filaments
At Terrafilum, we are dedicated to providing high-quality and eco-friendly 3D printing filament solutions for customers across diverse industries. From custom filaments for large-scale industrial projects to meeting strict engineering design criteria, we have the expertise and experience to meet your specific printing needs.
Our commitment to exceeding customer expectations is reflected in the fact that we manufacture our products right here in the USA. This allows us to maintain strict quality control measures and ensure our customers receive the highest-quality products. Additionally, we offer competitive pricing and excellent customer service to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for all our customers.
Contact us to learn more about our products and services, or request a quote to get started on your next project with us!