Nylon PA12 vs ASA
Compare Nylon PA12 and ASA filaments side-by-side so you can pick the right one for your 3D printing project.
Nylon PA12 vs ASA: Nylon PA12 is known for absorbs far less moisture than pa6 (~0.3% vs ~3%), while ASA is known for excellent uv resistance (outdoors indefinitely). Both have recommended enclosure requirements; Nylon PA12 prints at higher nozzle temperatures (240-270°C vs 220-275°C). Choose Nylon PA12 for absorbs far less moisture than pa6 (~0.3% vs ~3%), or ASA for excellent uv resistance (outdoors indefinitely).
Key differences at a glance
Nylon PA12
BPolyamide 12
Absorbs far less moisture than PA6 (~0.3% vs ~3%), so it holds dimensions in humid air and is much more forgiving to print
ASA
AAcrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate
Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
Detailed Comparison
Green marks the generally easier or more forgiving option in that row, based on tier, enclosure needs, and moisture sensitivity. It is not always the better choice for a specific job, so weigh it against what your project actually needs.
Strengths Comparison
Nylon PA12 Strengths
- Absorbs far less moisture than PA6 (~0.3% vs ~3%), so it holds dimensions in humid air and is much more forgiving to print
- Tougher and more impact resistant than PA6, especially in the cold; good chemical and abrasion resistance
- Good for tubing, clips, connectors and flexible mechanical parts
ASA Strengths
- Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
- Less warping than ABS; low viscosity enables very high speed printing
- High heat tolerance (~boiling water range)
Considerations
Nylon PA12 Caveats
- Less stiff than PA6 (flexural modulus roughly 1.4-1.5 GPa vs 2.8-3.0 GPa)
- Lower heat resistance than PA6; melts around 178C rather than 220C
- More expensive than PA6
ASA Caveats
- Still off-gasses; enclosure/ventilation recommended
- Can still warp; needs tuning