CNC ABS plastic: the transformation of plastic
CNC machining not only involves the metal field, but also widely applies to the plastic field. Plastic CNC machining is one of the common machining processes in several industries. The introduction of computer numerical control makes plastic machining and manufacturing processes more accurate, faster, and suitable for manufacturing parts with strict tolerances. In this article, we will help you understand the content and machining process of ABS and ABS CNC in detail.
1.ABS definition
Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS): It has many advantages such as good heat resistance, aging resistance, and corrosion resistance of acrylonitrile (A), high toughness, impact resistance, and low temperature resistance of butadiene (B), and easy processing of styrene (S). ABS plastic has unique properties such as high strength, high toughness, impact resistance, heat resistance, low temperature resistance, and corrosion resistance.
2.ABS CNC machining definition
ABS parts belong to the common manufacturing process of plastic CNC machining services. Among many plastic materials, it is one of the easier to process. The entire process is controlled by a special computer program, using various CNC machine tools such as lathes, grinders, milling machines and milling machines. The material is then subtracted from the workpiece according to the information indicated by the computer program, thus transforming the raw material into the desired finished product.
3.ABS plastic properties
(1) Physical properties of ABS plastic:
· Stronger toughness
· Impact resistance
· Corrosion resistance
· Thermal stability
· Moldable
· Recyclable
· Cost-effective
(2) Chemical properties of ABS plastic:
Chemical formula: (C8H8)x (C4H6)y(C3H3N)z)
Injection temperature: (400 – 460 °F)
Liquidation temperature (glass transition): 105 °C (221 °F)
(3) Mechanical properties of ABS plastic:
Heat deformation temperature: 0.46 °C (66 °F) at 98 MPa (208 PSI)
Toughness (Izod notch impact at room temperature): 200 – 215 J/m
Elongation at yield – 1.7-6%
Shrinkage – 0.5-0.7%
Flexural strength: 74 MPa (10800 PSI)
Shore hardness D: 100
Elongation at break – 10-50%
Specific gravity: 1.06
Tensile strength: 46 MPa (6600 PSI)
(4) Electrical properties of ABS plastic:
Volume resistivity: 14 – 16 x 1015 ohm. cm
Arc resistance: 60-120 seconds
Dielectric constant: 2.7-3.2
Dissipation factor: 50 – 190 x 10-4
Dielectric strength: 15.7 -34kV/mm
4.ABS CNC machining process
Below we discuss the step-by-step process of ABS CNC machining and provide a brief description of each process.
5.ABS CNC machining methods
(1) Milling ABS plastic
Milling is a common technique for machining ABS plastic. The process helps to carve out complex shapes and intricate details from ABS material. Milling achieves high precision, allowing manufacturers to achieve the exact geometry required for the part. During the milling process, a rotating tool removes material from the workpiece.
(2) Turning ABS on a lathe
Turning ABS on a lathe is particularly suitable for producing cylindrical parts. In this technique, the ABS workpiece rotates and a single-point cutting tool removes material, improving the accuracy and surface finish of the part.
(3) Drilling and tapping
Drilling and tapping are other important techniques in ABS CNC machining. They help add functional features such as holes and threads. These processes are essential for assemblies that require assembly or incorporation of additional parts.
(4) Engraving and etching
Engraving and etching are techniques used to add text, logos or complex designs to the surface of ABS parts. These methods enhance the aesthetics and functionality of the component, making it suitable for a variety of applications, including signage, branding or decorative purposes.
6.Advantages and Disadvantages of ABS CNC Machining
Advantages of ABS CNC Machining:
(1) Higher Accuracy
Since computer software controls the entire process, ABS CNC machining produces parts with higher accuracy, ensuring manufacturing requirements.
(2) High durability
Due to higher precision, the manufactured parts have higher durability. It automatically ensures the long-term performance of the component.
(3) Rapid mass and prototype production
ABS CNC machining is the fastest way to produce ABS plastic prototypes. Due to the fast prototyping speed, it helps in rapid mass production.
(4) Creating parts with complex geometries
ABS products produced through CNC machining process have complex geometries, and their parts show higher accuracy and precision.
(5) Excellent surface finish
ABS CNC machining is conducive to providing excellent and smoother surface finish at the end of machining, without the need for additional surface treatment processes.
(6) High cost performance:
ABS CNC machining is a cost-effective process. ABS CNC machining does not require the production of expensive molds, thereby saving production costs.
Disadvantages of ABS CNC machining:
(1) Large amount of waste generation
The main disadvantage of ABS CNC machining is that it generates a lot of waste.
(2) High equipment cost
The cost of CNC machining is high. Therefore, a lot of money must be spent to manufacture ABS parts.
7.ABS CNC Machining Applications
ABS can be transformed into parts required by different industries, including automotive, electrical and electronic, aerospace, home appliances, defense, toys, etc.
8.Summary
ABS CNC machining combines modern manufacturing capabilities with the superior quality of ABS plastics. This fusion produces parts that meet the highest standards of durability, functionality, and aesthetics. Whether you want to make prototypes or mass production, it is important to understand the technology, costs, and advantages of ABS CNC machining.