ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer)

Depending on the manufacturing process, parts made from ABS have different surface finishes. For example, very matt to rough surfaces are obtained with parts produced using CNC processes. These can be smoothed as required. However, rough impurities can already be avoided during production by choosing the right cutting tool and optimally setting the cutting parameters. In addition, the choice of ABS is also decisive for the success of a high surface quality. ABS is available in various compositions and qualities, tailored to the respective production process. With injection molding, you can generally expect smoother surfaces than with CNC. This is largely due to the already optimized injection mould into which the ABS is injected. In order to achieve high surface qualities, the correct heat supply is particularly important to prevent warping and overheating.

ABS parts are often additionally coated with finishes, particularly for decorative purposes. A metallic finish by chrome plating is particularly suitable here. Electroplating is used to bond the metal to the plastic so that a thin, shiny layer develops on the surface. These coatings are particularly used in the automotive industry, where the coated parts are used for dashboards, for example. Other typical applications for these chrome-plated ABS parts in everyday life include garbage can lids, shower heads, exterior mirrors and towel rails.

Consumer products

ABS is omnipresent in our everyday lives. Examples of this are

• Housing of electronic devices: Smartphones, remote controls and computer housings benefit from the stability and aesthetic appearance of ABS.
• Household appliances: Coffee machines, vacuum cleaners and other appliances use ABS due to its durability and dimensional stability.
• Toys: Well-known brands such as LEGO use ABS because of its safe, stable and color-fast properties.

Automotive industry

In the automotive industry, ABS is widely used in:

• Interior panels: Dashboards, door panels and consoles are often made of ABS.
• Electronic components: Fuses, switch housings and control units benefit from the robust properties of ABS.
• Body parts: Bumpers and other exterior components utilize the impact resistance and dimensional stability of ABS.

Electrical engineering

ABS is a preferred material for:

• Consumer electronics housings: Televisions, radios and computer housings benefit from the good electrical insulation and heat resistance.
• Electrical appliances: Domestic and industrial electrical appliances use ABS for durable and safe housings.

3D printing

ABS is one of the most popular materials in the field of 3D printing:

• Prototype development: Due to its good mechanical properties and ease of processing, ABS is ideal for creating prototypes.
• End consumer products: Small batches and individual products can be manufactured efficiently with ABS.
• Functional parts: ABS is suitable for the manufacture of parts that have to withstand mechanical loads.