Plastic injection moulding is becoming increasingly adopted in the automotive industry. As suppliers of automotive moulded plastic parts, we are knowledgeable in the power of this manufacturing method. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is commonly in use to produce an array of automotive plastic components. For instance, fixtures, enclosures and housings, lenses and lighting fixtures and aftermarket parts.
But, what makes this material so superior next to the likes of polypropylene, acrylic, acetal, nylon and polycarbonate? This article will outline the benefits of ABS, and how it has set a new standard in automotive part manufacturing. Over the years, we have perfected our injection moulding automotive processes, achieving complete accuracy and optimum performance.
What is ABS?
ABS, also known as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, is an opaque thermoplastic that can produce the highest quality automotive plastic components. With a glass transition temperature of 105 degrees centigrade, making it almost liquid at such low temperatures. Due to being a thermoplastic, heating ABS to the melting point allows for easy manipulation, which can then be cooled and heated again.
It achieves this without dampening its quality or strength properties, making it ideal for plastic injection moulding. The process of making ABS consists of emulsion using continuous mass polymerization. This refers to several ingredients that usually aren’t combined to create a singular substance. It becomes a terpolymer created by acrylonitrile and styrene, in the presence of polybutadiene.
What properties lie in ABS?
Its textile strength and robust nature combined with its inexpensiveness are what make this material so popular. Suppliers that produce automotive plastic parts trust in ABS due to its versatility and ability to be painted, sanded, glued and coloured. Perfect for bespoke applications for some of the biggest car brands on the market today.
What automotive parts are plastic injection moulded?
ABS, amongst other materials, produce automotive plastic parts with immaculate protection and durability. The cost-effectiveness of this method is a selling point for manufacturers, especially when it comes to mass production. Not to mention, the surface finish that’s achieved through plastic injection moulding is relied upon in the automotive sector; where strong aesthetics are vital.
The most common automotive plastic components produced through plastic injection moulding are found both internally and externally. These include door panels, grills, handles, dashboards, air vents, radios, sat nav screens and sun visors.
Leading Providers of Plastic Injection Automotive Parts
Manufacturers of automotive plastic parts, such as ourselves, trust in plastic injection moulding to achieve seamless results for our customers. If you’re looking for the best plastic injection moulding companies in the UK, you’re in the right place. For over 10 years, we have illustrated a faultless service, from start to finish, always adhering to our client’s needs.
If you’d like to get in touch to discuss our plastic injection services or find out more about ABS and our other fantastic material options, we’re available Monday to Friday. Our contact number is 0121 544 5808 or alternatively, you can reach us via email at sales@stephensplasticmouldings.co.uk.
If you found this blog useful, check out a previous one: Polypropylene Injection Moulding Uses in the Automotive Industry