ABS
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a tough, impact-resistant, easy-to-process plastic with a good surface finish, widely used for enclosures, housings, covers and prototypes. It can be moulded, machined, thermoformed, painted and glued.
What it is
ABS balances strength, rigidity and impact resistance at low cost. It machines and bonds easily and accepts paint and plating, making it common for consumer and industrial housings.
It has moderate heat resistance (about 80 °C) and limited UV and solvent resistance unless modified.
Typical applications
- Electronic and instrument enclosures
- Covers and housings
- Prototype and display parts
- Automotive interior components
- Thermoformed panels
Materials & grades
- ABS sheet and rod
- Flame-retardant ABS
- UV-stabilised ABS
- Platable ABS
Points to consider
- Poor UV resistance without stabilisers; not ideal outdoors.
- Attacked by some solvents (acetone, esters).
- Easy to glue and paint.
- Use PC or PC/ABS for higher impact or heat.
Frequently asked questions
What is ABS plastic used for?
Enclosures, housings, covers, prototypes and consumer products.
Is ABS strong?
It is tough and impact resistant for its cost, though polycarbonate is stronger for demanding impacts.
Can ABS be used outdoors?
Only UV-stabilised or painted ABS; standard grades degrade in sunlight.