ASA: the plastic that does not mind the sun
ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) is an engineering plastic for 3D printing that withstands UV radiation, rain and heat well. It is used mainly for parts that have to last a long time outdoors.
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What ASA is
ASA was created as a replacement for ABS that copes better with weather. Even in the sun it keeps its colour, gloss and strength for a long time, which is why it is used for exterior car parts, building cladding and garden furniture.
According to Prusa Research, it withstands temperatures up to 93 °C and resists ultraviolet radiation well. It is hard to print, though: it warps as it cools, needs an enclosed printer with warm air, and gives off fumes while printing.
What ASA is good for
- Parts in direct sun that have to last years outdoors without fading.
- Parts exposed to heat, for example in a car that bakes in summer.
- Technical parts whose surface can be smoothed with acetone.
Do we print ASA?
Not at the moment. We print PLA and PETG. For most things that go outdoors, such as balcony brackets, covers or garden accessories, PETG is the closest choice. It handles damp and heat up to roughly 80 °C, and the material costs €9 per kilogram.
If you specifically need ASA, write to us. We will look at your part and advise whether PETG will do.
Common questions
What is the difference between ASA and ABS?
They are similar in strength and in how they print. ASA copes better with sun, warps less and smells less while printing, so it is chosen for outdoors.
What can replace ASA if you do not print it?
PETG is fine for most outdoor parts. If a part has to sit in direct sun for years or at temperatures above 80 °C, write to us and we will advise.
Related terms
ABS
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a strong, tough engineering plastic that LEGO bricks are made from. In 3D printing it warps easily and gives off fumes, so it needs an enclosed printer.
PETG
PETG is a tough 3D printing plastic, a close relative of the material in PET bottles. Compared with PLA it withstands more heat, impact and moisture, so it suits technical parts and outdoor use.
PLA vs PETG
PLA vs PETG is the most common choice in 3D printing. PLA is more accurate and enough for most things indoors, while PETG is tougher, withstands more heat and also suits outdoor use.
Filament
Filament is a thin plastic strand wound on a spool, which an FDM 3D printer melts and layers into a part. The type of plastic decides the part's strength, heat resistance and price.
FDM
FDM is a 3D printing technology where the printer melts plastic filament and lays it down through a nozzle layer by layer. It is the most widespread and cheapest way to 3D print.
SourcesSources checked 1 November 2026, 3
- Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate, Wikipedia, checked 2026-11-01
- ASA, Prusa Research, checked 2026-11-01
- Ultraviolet, Wikipedia, checked 2026-11-01
We will print it for you
Upload a model and see the price per piece, the total with shipping and the date at once. We print in Košice, Slovakia, from PLA and PETG.
No model? No problem, pick a ready one
These sites have thousands of free models. Download an STL or 3MF and upload it here. If you sell it or use it for business, check the model licence. How to pick a model and licence