ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

    At Aetna Plastics, we offer a wide range of high-performance plastic materials engineered for demanding industrial, commercial, and fabrication needs. ABS is a popular thermoplastic known for its strength, toughness, and ease of machining, making it an excellent choice for structural applications, prototyping, and general-purpose industrial use.

    What is ABS

    ABS is an opaque thermoplastic polymer made from three monomers—acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene. This combination results in a plastic that is both lightweight and highly impact-resistant, even at low temperatures. With excellent dimensional stability and good insulating properties, ABS is a go-to material for enclosures, housings, and fabricated parts across a wide range of industries.

    Why Choose ABS?

    ABS stands out for its balance of toughness, machinability, and aesthetics.
    Key Properties:

    • Impact Resistance: Maintains strength and toughness even under sudden impact.
    • Machinability: Easy to cut, drill, mill, and bond—ideal for prototyping and fabrication.
    • Thermoformable: Easily shaped under heat for custom components.
    • Dimensional Stability: Low shrinkage and excellent form retention.
    • Surface Finish: Accepts paint, adhesives, and screen printing for enhanced aesthetics.
    • Temperature Range: Performs well from -20°F to 180°F (-29°C to 82°C).

    Standard Shapes and Forms

    Aetna Plastics offers ABS in a variety of standard and custom configurations:

    • Sheet: Available in multiple thicknesses and sizes
    • Rod: Offered in a range of diameters
    • Tube & Pipe: Custom orders available upon request
    • Custom Fabrications: Cut-to-size parts, CNC-machined components, and thermoformed products

    Common Applications for ABS

    Thanks to its strength, durability, and easy fabrication, ABS is used across many industries:

    • Prototyping & Modeling: 3D printing and CNC machining for design validation
    • Enclosures & Housings: Electrical, automotive, and consumer product applications
    • Industrial Fabrication: Panels, guards, and brackets in manufacturing environments
    • Point-of-Purchase Displays: Durable, printable surfaces for retail signage and fixtures
    • Transportation: Interior trim and lightweight structural components

    Colors and Finishes

    ABS is commonly available in black and white, with other colors available upon request. Smooth, textured, and gloss finishes can be selected depending on the application, and UV-stabilized grades are also available for outdoor use.

    Why Choose Aetna Plastics?

    With over 75 years of material expertise, Aetna Plastics is your reliable source for high-quality ABS and other thermoplastics. Whether you’re building a prototype, replacing parts, or scaling production, our inventory, custom capabilities, and technical support are here to help.
    What Sets Us Apart:

    • Large Inventory: Extensive stock of ABS sheets, rods, and specialty forms
    • Fabrication Services: Cut-to-size and custom machining to meet your specs
    • Industry Expertise: Knowledgeable support across industrial, commercial, and OEM sectors
    • Fast Fulfillment: Responsive service and reliable delivery
    Materials We Work Wtih

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