PC-ABS

PC-ABS | High-Strength Thermoplastic for Functional FDM Parts

Technical Overview

PC-ABS (Polycarbonate-Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is an industrial-grade FDM thermoplastic that merges the most desirable properties of its two constituent polymers. By blending the superior strength, heat resistance, and dimensional stability of PC with the high impact strength and processability of ABS, this material provides a defined solution for parts that must endure mechanical stress and thermal loads without failure. Its key differentiator is this balanced profile, offering a higher level of performance than standard ABS without the processing challenges of pure PC.

Performance and Mechanical Properties

Engineered for toughness, PC-ABS exhibits excellent mechanical properties, including high impact resistance and good flexural and tensile strength. This makes it a reliable choice for producing parts that need to withstand shock, vibration, and repeated loading. Components printed with PC-ABS maintain their structural integrity under demanding operational conditions, making them suitable for real-world applications where durability is critical.

Thermal Stability

With a high heat deflection temperature (HDT), parts made from PC-ABS can operate effectively in elevated temperature environments without warping or losing their shape. This thermal stability is crucial for applications in automotive interiors, industrial equipment housings, and electronic enclosures where components are exposed to heat.

Design and Processing

PC-ABS is optimized for the Stratasys FDM process, ensuring reliable and repeatable results. It is compatible with soluble support materials like SR-110 and QSR, which enables the creation of complex geometries, deep internal cavities, and intricate features that would be impossible to produce otherwise. The hands-free removal of support material streamlines post-processing and preserves fine-detail features.

Lifecycle: From Functional Prototypes to Production Parts

The versatility and strength of PC-ABS make it an ideal material across the entire product lifecycle. It is strong enough for rigorous functional testing of prototypes, durable enough for manufacturing aids like jigs and fixtures, and stable enough for low-volume production of end-use parts.