Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
| Symbol: | ABS |
| Crystallinity: | Amorphous |
| Trade Names: | Cycolac, Terlux, Magnum, Lustran |
Description:
ABS is an amorphous thermoplastic combining three monomers to provide impact strength, rigidity, high gloss, chemical resistance, heat stability, and resistance to aging. Typical combination is 15-30% acrylonitrile, 5 – 30% butadiene, and 45 – 75% styrene. ABS has a reputation for being the best of the styrenic family. One reason for this distinction could be its ease in processing. ABS materials have a wide processing window which can mean favorable results in different environments.
Processing Considerations:
- Residence Time: Residence time ranges from 2 to 4 minutes.
- Back Pressure: Keep back pressure below 150 PSI (or 1500 plastic pressure) and screw at 30 or less.
- Drying: The material must be dried, typically between 150°F and 195°F for 2 – 3 hours.
- RPM: RPM is typically 30 to 100.
Screw Design Based on:
- Low Compression Ratio
- Long Transition Length
- Deep Meter Channel Depth
Other Information:
- Mixer: A low shear, mixing screw can be used to run ABS. Reiloy Westland Corporation’s Eagle mixer has been proven to successfully process this resin.
- Barrier: Barrier screws are not recommended.
- Custom Design: A zero-meter screw design is highly recommended.
- Recommended Valve: A three piece free-flow valve is recommended as good ring travel is needed on the valve.
- Screw & Barrel Material Recommendation: Use chrome-plated, 17-4PH or PM420V for screws. Barrels can be manufactured from standard materials.
Various additives and/or fillers can have an effect on a resin’s process behavior. For more detailed information, please contact Reiloy Westland Corporation.