MakerBot is bringing to the market an engineering-grade material called Precision ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate). Ideal for outdoor applications, the new material integrates high ultra-violet and chemical resistant properties.
Materials used in outdoor applications have to withstand extreme environments. Such applications can be found in the automotive, power and utilities, agriculture, oil & gas, and mass transit industries.
The manufacturer of METHOD X is currently developing a line of Precision Materials. Other materials of this line include MakerBot Tough, PLA, PVA and ABS. All of them are mainly used for prototyping, jigs and fixtures, and end-use parts.
During the launch of the FDM 3D printer, the focus was made on its ability to print complex and durable ABS parts with a 100°C heated chamber. With the launch of this engineering-grade material, the company of Stratasys shows its commitment to enable a wide range of applications.
However, it should be noted that ASA’s properties are similar to ABS. The main difference between both materials is that the new material delivers stronger ultraviolet (UV), long-term heat resistance, and chemical resistance.
Furthermore, the 3D printer powered by Stratasys requires the us of the parent company’s SR-30 industrial support material to print ASA. Combining these two materials enable users to achieve consistent and repeatable parts with ± 0.2 mm dimensional accuracy1, resulting in superior surface finish and print precision.
Speaking of the use of ASA on Method X, Nadav Goshen, CEO, MakerBot said: “The METHOD X Circulating Heated Chamber allows engineers to produce strong and durable parts with industrial materials. We believe that ASA can deliver high-performing mechanical properties that will enable companies to develop better products.”
According to MakerBot, METHOD X is the only 3D printer in its price-class that uses SR-30, providing engineers with unlimited design freedom.
Precision ASA is expected to begin shipping in November 2019, and will be available in black. The availability of ASA in red and white is expected shortly thereafter. Lastly visitors of the TCT Show can already discover the material at Booth E100.
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