Polymer Type

Thermoplastic

Advantages

Can be electroplated to give parts with the more decorative finish of metals such as Chrome Gold, Silver and Brass. The plating can increase the rigidity of a moulding as well as scratch resistance. The metal layer screens radio waves and conducts electricity.

Disadvantages

Temperature profile and mould surface temperatures need to be kept higher than for standard ABS grades. This is in order to ensure good surface finish for subsequent electroplating & also to minimise moulded in stresses. Mould release agents should not be used as they affect plating behaviour. Regrind should not be used for items to be electroplated because of possible flaws in surface finish.

Typical Properties

Property Value Density (g/cm3) 1.06 Surface Hardness RR107 Tensile Strength (MPa) 42 Flexural Modulus (GPa) 2.4 Notched Izod (kJ/m) 0.4 Linear Expansion (/°C x 10-5) 8 Elongation at Break (%) 8 Strain at Yield (%) 2.5 Max. Operating Temp. (°C) 70 Water Absorption (%) 0.3 Oxygen Index (%) 19 Flammability UL94 HB Volume Resistivity (log ohm.cm) 16 Dielectric Strength (MV/m) 20 Dissipation Factor 1kHz 0.008 Dielectric Constant 1kHz 2.7 HDT @ 0.45 MPa (°C) 98 HDT @ 1.80 MPa (°C) 89 Material. Drying hrs @ (°C) 4 @ 90 Melting Temp. Range (°C) 250 - 285 Mould Shrinkage (%) 0.6 Mould Temp. Range (°C) 40 - 80

Applications

Sanitary ware, Automotive or Radiator Grilles. Wheel covers, headlight bezels, interior & exterior trim and knobs, marine hardware, radio & TV parts, shavers, light fixtures and appliance housings.