Material · Plastic CNC Machining
ABS is a tough, low-cost plastic. We cut it with CNC milling and turning to make precise, repeatable parts. It is a smart choice for housings, enclosures, jigs, and prototypes.
Overview
ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. It is a thermoplastic — a plastic that softens when heated and hardens when cooled, so off-cuts can be recycled. ABS is an amorphous polymer, which gives it good dimensional stability and easy machining. You already know it from LEGO bricks and car interiors.
ABS is made from three building blocks. Each one gives the plastic a special strength:
Gives ABS its rigidity, strength, and chemical resistance. It is the "hard" part of the blend.
Adds toughness. This rubbery part lets ABS bend and absorb knocks without breaking.
Provides a smooth surface and easy molding. It makes ABS pleasant to finish.
Specifications
These are typical values for CNC-machined ABS. Exact numbers vary by grade and color. Need a full data sheet? Just ask.
| Property | Typical Value | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Material type | ABS (thermoplastic) | Amorphous polymer; off-cuts can be recycled |
| Density | 1.04–1.06 g/cm³ | Light and easy to handle |
| Tensile strength (yield) | ~40 MPa | Strong enough for functional parts |
| Elongation at break | ~30% | Bends before it breaks |
| Impact strength (Izod, notched) | ~200–400 J/m | Resists drops and knocks |
| Hardness (Rockwell R) | ~105 | Hard but not brittle |
| Heat deflection temp (HDT) | ~95 °C | Keeps shape in warm areas |
| Melting point | ~210–270 °C | Pellet melt range |
| Standard tolerance | ±0.05 mm (±0.002 in) | Normal CNC accuracy |
| Tight tolerance | ±0.005 mm (on request) | For critical features |
| Max part size | Large format | Contact us for your size |
| Water absorption | Low | Dimensions stay stable |
The Process
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) uses programmed machines to cut a solid ABS block into your part. No mold is needed, so it is fast and cheap for prototypes and small runs. Here is the simple flow:
You send a 3D model (STEP, IGES, or STL). We set up toolpaths and machining steps.
We clamp the ABS block firmly on the machine so it stays still and accurate.
Mills and lathes remove material, shaping the part to your exact drawing.
We deburr, finish, and check dimensions before the part ships.
Why Choose ABS
Handles drops, knocks, and daily wear. Great for parts that must survive use.
Holds its shape under load. Good for structural and load-bearing parts.
Cuts cleanly with standard tools. Fast cycle times and low cost.
Cheaper than many engineering plastics. No mold needed for small runs.
Keeps its size and shape well after machining. Good for tight-fit parts.
Resists many oils, acids, and cleaners used in everyday products.
Be Aware
ABS is a great all-rounder, but it has a few weak spots. Knowing them helps us design better parts for you.
ABS softens above about 95 °C. For hot parts, we may suggest another plastic.
Long sun exposure can make ABS brittle and faded. Keep it indoors.
Strong solvents like acetone can soften ABS. We avoid them near your part.
Typical Uses
ABS is used across many industries where you need strength, low cost, and a clean finish without a mold.
Covers for devices, sensors, and control boxes.
Dashboards, instrument panels, and center consoles.
Factory tools, holding devices, and test rigs.
Appliance parts, furniture fittings, and product bodies.
Electrical enclosures and internal brackets.
Form, fit, and function testing before molding.
Post-Processing
CNC leaves clean parts by default. Add a finish when you need a specific look or feel.
Fast and cheap. Light tool marks may show — fine for hidden parts.
Fine glass beads give a uniform, matte, low-shine surface.
Matte, gloss, or any color you need to match your product.
Smooths the surface to a clean, glossy finish.
Tapped holes and pressed metal inserts for stronger joints.
Logos, part numbers, and labels cut or printed on the surface.
Design Tips
Good design saves time and money. Follow these simple rules for cleaner, cheaper ABS parts.
Keep features on one axis when possible. It avoids costly 4- and 5-axis setups.
Use the same corner radii and hole sizes. Fewer tool changes mean lower cost.
Tight tolerances cost more on plastics. Call them out only on key dimensions.
Keep walls at least 1.0 mm so parts stay rigid and stable.
Sharp inside corners need a small radius — the cutter is round.
Leave a flat datum so we can hold the part steady and accurate.
Our Solution
We are a manufacturing team with years of hands-on experience in plastic CNC machining. We turn your drawing into precise parts — fast and at fair cost. Every order includes a free design review.
Mills and lathes for simple and complex ABS parts alike.
Our engineers check your file and suggest fixes that save time and cost.
Bead blasting, painting, polishing, threading, and marking.
First-article checks and full inspection before shipping.
Not sure if ABS is right for your part? Tell us about it. We will compare materials and recommend the best fit — honestly.
Start Your Project
Upload your 3D model (STEP, IGES, STL) or drawing. No account needed.
We reply with price, lead time, and free DFM feedback within 24 hours.
Approve the quote and we machine, finish, and ship your parts.
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