The prototyping and consumer-electronics housing plastic — ABS is cheap, dimensionally stable, easy to machine, and finishes beautifully (paint, vapor-polish, chrome-plate). Not for structural or high-temperature service, but for appearance prototypes and consumer product enclosures, nothing beats it for cost and finish.
Takes paint, chrome plating, vapor polishing, and adhesive bonding easily. Standard for cosmetic prototype housings.
Low moisture absorption (~0.3%), unlike nylon. Machined tolerances hold in ambient conditions.
Among the cheapest engineering plastics — typically 50–70% the cost of polycarbonate.
| Element | Content |
|---|---|
| Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene | 100% |
| Typical ratio | 20–30% acrylonitrile, 25–30% butadiene, 40–50% styrene |
Composition per ASTM D4673. Specific mill test reports (MTR) available on request for production orders.
ABS yellows and embrittles in sunlight within months. For UV-exposed parts, use ASA or UV-stabilized grade.
Continuous service limit ~80 °C. Above this, creep and deformation accelerate. Use polycarbonate or Ultem for higher temperatures.
Acetone vapor exposure dissolves the outer layer, leaving a glass-smooth surface. Common finishing step for visual prototypes.
Full DFM review by a mechanical engineer. No automated bot rejection. FOB Ningbo or DDP to your door.