Introduction
ABS is a thermoplastic polymer that is easy to machine and process, and which creates plastic parts with an excellent surface finish. It offers high impact strength and resistance to extreme temperatures and chemicals and can be finished with processes such as metallization, electroplating, bonding and hot pressing.
Applications: Handheld devices, housings, cosmetic parts, moldings for electrical tools and consumer goods.
Behavior: Molded ABS parts are susceptible to defects such as knit lines, sinks and voids, but material blends such as ABS/PC can reduce sink in thick areas.
| Properties | Metric | |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 1.01 – 1.20 g/cc | 0.0365 – 0.0434 lb/in³ |
| Hardness | 68 – 113 | 68 – 113 |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | 13.0 – 65.0 MPa | 1890 – 9430 psi |
| Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | 22.1 – 49.0 MPa | 3210 – 7110 psi |
| Elongation at Yield | 0.62 – 30 % | 0.62 – 30 % |
| Elongation at Break | 3.0 – 150 % | 3.0 – 150 % |
| Dielectric Strength | 18.0 – 50.0 kV/mm | 457 – 1270 kV/in |
| Melt Temperature | 180 – 274 °C | 356 – 525 °F |
Surface Finish
Electroplating
Electroplating can be functional, decorative or corrosion-related. Many industries use the process, including the automotive sector, in which chrome-plating of steel automobile parts is common.
Painting
Painting the surface of a part improves its aesthetic appearance and can provide brand recognition to consumers. In addition, painting can have a protective effect on parts.
Screen Printing
Screen printing is a printing technique where a mesh is used to transfer ink onto a substrate, except in areas made impermeable to the ink by a blocking stencil.
Design Guideline
Wall Thickness
Between 1 mm and 3 mm
Keeping walls as thin and constant as possible will reduce warping and sinking
Thickness gradient
Wall thickness should increase by no more than three times
Transition between thicknesses can be made smoother with fillets
Internal edges
Rounded, more than half wall thickness
Add fillet with largest possible radius
External edges
Rounded, full wall thickness plus internal fillet
Add fillet with largest possible radius
Draft angle
Increase draft by 1° for every 25 mm (for parts taller than 50 mm)
Add draft to ease ejection and avoid drag marks
Textured finish
Increase draft angle by 1-2°
Increase draft to ease ejection and avoid drag marks
Instant Quote & Order
Only 4 simple steps to complete your project. Follow the instruction and give it a try!
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