Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene is the most-molded engineering thermoplastic worldwide. Balanced stiffness and impact resistance, paintable and platable, affordable, easy to mold. Found in consumer electronics, automotive interiors, toys, appliances — any application where cost, aesthetics, and moderate engineering performance must all be met.
| Grade | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General purpose | Consumer products, appliance housings | Balanced properties, easy processing |
| High impact | Drop-prone devices, power tool housings | Higher rubber content, impact >400 J/m |
| High heat | Automotive interior, electronics | HDT up to 110 °C |
| Flame retardant (V-0) | Electrical enclosures, IT equipment | UL94 V-0 rated; slightly reduced impact |
| Plating grade | Chrome-plated parts (knobs, logos) | Surface optimized for electroless copper strike |
| Transparent (MABS) | Light covers, cosmetic containers | Methyl-methacrylate modified for clarity |
| PC/ABS blend | Higher heat + impact than straight ABS | HDT up to 115 °C; more expensive |
Below 1.5 mm, short shots and flow lines. Above 3.5 mm, sink marks on opposite surface and long cycle times.
Standard rule for all thermoplastics — a 2 mm wall needs 1.2 mm ribs. Thicker ribs cause sink marks on the opposite cosmetic surface.
ABS parts release easily with 1° draft on textured surfaces, 0.5° on polished. More draft = easier ejection = faster cycles.
Standard ABS takes paint, chrome plating, and vapor deposition. Specify "plating grade" if chrome plating — standard ABS doesn't plate well.
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