The global availability of ABS is currently limited due to damaged production resources in the supply chain. Because we work with multiple suppliers as a normal business practice, we have numerous options that can be a great (or sometimes superior) substitute. We’re happy to walk you through the possibilities! Call us today to discuss your needs & let us find a material solution for you.
Material Name: ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene Styrene)
ABS is an opaque polymer with a wide range of properties such as strong resistance to physical impact and corrosive chemicals. It is available as a natural or colorable compound. ABS is not weatherable and should not be specified in outdoor applications where exposed to weathering due to poor UV resistance (ASA extrusions are similar, but with better UV and weather resistance).
ABS Pros
- Wider operating temperature range (high and low)
- Better impact through temperature ranges
- Higher HDT than PVC
- Comparable cost
- ABS Pricing (volatile)
- Lightweight
ABS Cons
- Low UV resistance
- Requires cap layer in weathering applications
- Typically, higher CTE
- Not inherently flame retardant
Definition
ABS is a terpolymer made by polymerizing styrene and acrylonitrile in the presence of polybutadiene. The nitrile groups from neighboring chains, being polar, attract each other and bind the chains together, making ABS tougher than pure polystyrene. The styrene gives the plastic a glossy, waterproof surface. Polybutadiene provides toughness even at low temperatures.
Applications
ABS is used for applications in the appliance, construction, plumbing, marine, hydroponics and furniture industries. Fun Fact: they’re not extruded, but Lego bricks are made from ABS!
Products
- Appliance parts
- Pipes and tubing
- Trims and mouldings
- Power tool casings
- Trays & storage bins
- Automotive parts
- Sports equipment
- POP components
- Office equipment
Properties
| PROPERTY | TYPICAL VALUE | UNITS | ASTM METHOD |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHYSICAL | |||
| Rockwell Hardness | 93 | R scale | D-785 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.03 | D-792 | |
| Melt Flow Rate (200° C, 5 kg) | 0.50 | g/10 min | D-1238 |
| MECHANICAL | |||
| Flexural Modulus | 270,000 | psi | D-790 |
| Flexural Strength | 8,600 | psi | D-790 |
| Tensile Strength @ yield | 5,400 | psi | D-638 |
| Notched Izod Impact @ 23 degrees Celsius | 9.7 | ft-lb/in | D-256A |
| THERMAL | |||
| Heat Deflection Temp: 0.125 in @ 264 psi | 189 | °F | D-648 |
| Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion | 4.5 x 10^-5 | in/in/°F | D-696 |
| FLAMMABILITY | |||
| Flame Rating - UL at 0.0625" | HB | UL94 |
The information provided above is based on typical values, and is believed to be reliable. No warranty is given as to the suitability of the product for a particular application. Determination of the suitability of this product for any use is solely the responsibility of the user.
Custom Plastic Extrusion
Whether its extruded ABS or any number of different plastics, choosing the perfect material for a new extrusion project can be an intimidating task. Intek works closely with industry-leading material manufacturers to offer you many different thermoplastic compound options to meet your project’s needs. And Intek Plastics’ tool and die team applies their knowledge and expertise with the most advanced CAD/CAM software, CNC machining and the latest in EDM technology to custom build the highest quality tools. They’ll work with you to literally shape your ideas and take them from concept to production.
Capabilities
With over 30 production lines, we can manufacture ABS extrusions 24 hours a day, 5 days a week, allowing us to scale production to complete large orders of any complexity. And our extensive extrusion experience in pellet and powder compounds, as well as our advanced cooling capabilities in water, air and vacuum sizing, allow us to succeed in jobs of any shape or size. We serve a wide range of OEMs with orders from 5,000 to 15,000,000 feet.
Did you know that a whopping 85% of the cost of custom plastic extrusions are determined by the design and material? That’s why it’s important to work with an PVC extruder like Intek who will work hand-in-glove with you and design a high-quality product at the lowest total cost. We start by gaining a deep understanding of your needs. Armed with that information, an Intek project engineer guides you through material selection, highlights critical design considerations and helps develop the most cost-effective solution. This hands-on, knowledge-driven approach keeps your product and business a step ahead of the competition. We’re happy to walk you through the ABS selection process.