Engineering Plastic
ABS
The tough, easy-to-work general-purpose plastic: good impact strength, machines and bonds cleanly, and takes finishing well. Moderate everything else.
Last verified: 2026-07-10
| PolymerChemistry / common trade name. | Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene |
|---|---|
| Density(g/cm³)Typical specific gravity. | 1.05 |
| Tensile(MPa)Typical tensile strength (unfilled grade). | 43 |
| Max service(°C)Typical continuous service temperature. | 85 |
| Water abs.(%)Typical 24 h water absorption. | 0.3 |
| Machinability | Good |
| Known forThe property it's usually chosen for. | Toughness + easy fabrication |
- Typical uses: enclosures and housings, prototypes and jigs, trim, machined fixtures.
- Good impact toughness; machines, glues, and finishes easily.
- Not for outdoor use without UV stabilisation; moderate strength and temperature resistance.
Other engineering plastics
Sources
- Manufacturer datasheets (typical properties for common unfilled grades)
- ASM International — Engineering Plastics (Engineered Materials Handbook)