BigRep, a global leader in large-format additive manufacturing (AM) technology and solutions, introduces ABS and ASA, two new BigRep certified, engineering-grade materials for applications in the automotive industry and for consumer products such as outdoor or sports applications. Both materials are designed for high-performance results using BigRep’s next-generation STUDIO G2 and PRO (ACE) 3D printers.
Both versatile and impact-resistant, the new ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is suited for mobility applications and a variety of end-use consumer appliances. Based on tried and tested FFF materials used in automotive manufacturing, the ABS has been optimized for large-format industrial AM. Thanks to its mechanical properties, high temperature- and warping-resistance, ABS is the material for printing complex, ready-to-use parts, including end-use, factory tooling and functional prototypes with demanding geometries.
Weather- and UV-resistant, the ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) material is a robust, engineering-grade filament with high mechanical resistance, low shrinkage and good layer adhesion, while also showing a greater heat resistance than even ABS. An easy to work with material, ASA has post-processing qualities offering great natural aesthetics that enable a matte finish and will not show age or fade in color with prolonged UV exposure, making it a good choice for industrial or automotive end-use parts.
Demonstrating the materials’ suitability for automotive applications, BigRep presented two showcase parts. A set of side mirrors printed with ASA confirming the weather- and UV-resistant qualities of the material, and an engine cover from ABS to showcase the materials high heat- and warping-resistance.
ABS/ASA present some real added value to AM – both can be chemically affixed to themselves or similar plastics, for example. ABS is a lightweight (1.08g/cm³) material also suitable for injection molding and extrusion, making it a key element in AM. Last but not least, both ABS/ASA are laid out for easy post-processing using standard machining techniques; they can be easily cut with standard shop tools and line-bent with standard heat strips.
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