In our series, we have explored ABS as a strong and versatile material, learned how to print it successfully, and uncovered the magic of its surface finishes. However, the world of 3D printing is constantly evolving, and with it, materials. While ABS remains relevant, modern alternatives have emerged that address some of its shortcomings, and composite variants are pushing the boundaries of mechanical resistance. In this final installment, we will look at the direct successor to ABS – ASA material – and explore what reinforcement with carbon and glass fibers brings to ABS.
ASA: The improved brother of ABS for outdoor use
ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) is a material developed as a direct alternative to ABS with one key improvement: excellent resistance to UV radiation and weathering.
Why is UV resistance so important?
Standard ABS suffers from prolonged exposure to sunlight. UV radiation degrades its polymer structure, leading to gradual degradation – the material yellows, becomes brittle, and loses its mechanical properties. This makes it unsuitable for any outdoor applications.
ASA solves this problem. Thanks to a different chemical structure (using acrylate rubber instead of butadiene rubber), it retains its color and mechanical resistance even after years in direct sunlight. So, if you plan to print anything that will be outdoors – from garden accessories to sensor covers, to car or boat parts – ASA is clearly a better choice than ABS.
Printing and properties
From a printing perspective, ASA is very similar to ABS. It still requires:
- High temperatures for the nozzle (240–260 °C) and bed (90–110 °C).
- An enclosed print chamber to prevent warping.
- Good ventilation due to the release of fumes.
However, many users report that ASA has a slightly lower tendency to warp and releases slightly less odor than ABS, which makes printing slightly easier. Mechanical properties, such as strength and temperature resistance, are comparable to ABS, and it can also be smoothed with acetone vapor.
Composites: ABS-CF and ABS-GF
For applications requiring maximum stiffness and strength, composite filaments have been developed where the base ABS matrix is reinforced with short fibers.
ABS-CF (Carbon Fiber reinforced)
Adding chopped carbon fibers dramatically increases the material’s stiffness and strength. Parts made from ABS-CF are significantly less flexible and better retain their shape under load. The fibers also improve dimensional stability and reduce warping. The resulting surface is matte and professional.
ABS-GF (Glass Fiber reinforced)
Glass fibers also increase strength and stiffness, but their main benefit is increased impact toughness and wear resistance.
Important note: Both types of composite filaments are highly abrasive. Carbon and glass fibers act as abrasives and very quickly wear out a standard brass nozzle. For printing these materials, it is essential to use a hardened steel nozzle.
Conclusion of the entire series: When to choose which material?
After exploring the entire ABS ecosystem and its alternatives, we can summarize the recommendations into a simple decision tree:
- Do you need a strong and temperature-resistant part for indoor use and want the option of perfect surface smoothing? Choose standard ABS.
- Do you need a part with the same properties, but it will be permanently exposed to sun and weather? Definitely opt for ASA.
- Do you need a part with maximum stiffness and strength, where it is crucial that it does not bend (e.g., drone frame, technical bracket)? Choose ABS-CF (and don’t forget the hardened nozzle).
Regardless of which variant you choose, the ABS/ASA material family still represents the pinnacle of technical filaments for FDM 3D printing.
