Material comparison
ABS vs Polycarbonate (PC)
ABS is the economical, easy-forming workhorse; polycarbonate is the high-performance choice for impact, heat and clarity. Many programmes use ABS unless a spec forces PC.
ABS vs Polycarbonate (PC) — side by side
| ABS | Polycarbonate (PC) | |
|---|---|---|
| Impact | Good | Very high |
| Heat resistance | Moderate | High |
| Clarity | Opaque | Clear |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| FR grades | UL 94 V-0 available | UL 94 V-0, CTI 600 available |
| Typical use | Housings, covers, trim | Guards, electrical, EV/battery, clear covers |
Choose ABS when…
- Cost-effective opaque housings and covers
- Easy forming and decoration
- General-purpose enclosures
Choose Polycarbonate (PC) when…
- High impact, heat or clarity requirements
- Electrical/EV parts needing CTI and FR
- Safety-critical guards
The verdict: Default to ABS for cost and formability; step up to polycarbonate when impact, heat, clarity or high-voltage FR (CTI 600) requirements demand it.
Frequently asked
Which is better for EV battery parts?
Polycarbonate — its impact, heat and halogen-free UL 94 V-0 / CTI 600 FR grades suit EV and battery insulation, where ABS FR may not meet the electrical spec.
Not sure which fits?
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