FDM TechnologyThermoplastic

PC-ABSHigh-Strength Composite Thermoplastic for Demanding Applications

PC-ABS combines the exceptional strength and heat resistance of polycarbonate (PC) with the flexibility and processability of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). This advanced thermoplastic blend delivers superior impact resistance, excellent dimensional stability, and enhanced surface finish, making it ideal for functional prototypes, end-use parts, and manufacturing tooling that require both mechanical performance and aesthetic appeal.

Tensile Strength
34.7 MPa
Flexural Modulus
1.86 GPa
Temperature Resistance
N/A
Technology
FDM
Get Quote for PC-ABSView Technical Data
PC-ABS 3D printed part example
Large Build Volume
Cost-Effective
FDM material

PC-ABS overview

PC-ABS represents the perfect balance of strength, heat resistance, and processability for demanding FDM applications. By combining polycarbonate's superior mechanical properties with ABS's excellent surface finish and moldability, this advanced thermoplastic blend delivers exceptional impact resistance (241 J/m notched Izod), high heat deflection temperature (up to 126°C), and outstanding dimensional stability. PC-ABS maintains its toughness even at elevated temperatures, making it ideal for parts exposed to thermal stress and mechanical loads. The material processes easily with soluble support systems, enabling complex geometries while delivering smooth surface finishes that often eliminate post-processing requirements. At Forge Labs, we utilize industrial Stratasys systems to ensure consistent mechanical properties and tight tolerances (±0.127mm) essential for functional prototypes and end-use applications.

Why manufacture with PC-ABS

PC-ABS combines superior impact resistance - exceptional toughness with 241 j/m notched impact strength and high heat performance - heat deflection temperature up to 126°c for thermal applications, delivering excellent surface finish - smooth, aesthetic surfaces with minimal post-processing for demanding applications. From rapid prototyping to production runs, teams rely on PC-ABS to maintain tight tolerances while reducing assembly complexity through consolidated part designs.

FDM Production Technology

PC-ABS combines polycarbonate's superior strength with ABS's processability, achieving 68 MPa tensile strength and 110°C heat deflection temperature through optimized FDM processing. The Stratasys Fortus system's precise thermal control ensures optimal polymer blending, delivering impact resistance 2.5x greater than standard ABS while maintaining excellent surface finish. This engineering-grade blend excels in automotive functional testing, withstanding repeated assembly cycles and environmental stress. The material's biocompatibility options and chemical resistance to automotive fluids make it ideal for medical device prototypes and under-hood components requiring both toughness and thermal stability.

Build Volume

914 × 610 × 914 mm

Max part size

Lead Time

2-4 business days

Fast turnaround available

Layer Height

0.127 - 0.330 mm

Resolution

Get instant quoteLearn more about FDM technology

Upload your CAD files to our Steam platform for instant DFM analysis and pricing. Get manufacturing validation, cost breakdowns, and production timelines in seconds.

Manufactured in Forge Labs' North American production centers with serialized traceability for PC-ABS.

PC-ABS FDM cube sample showing high-performance thermoplastic properties
Technical resources

Jump to data & downloads

Navigate directly to the property tables and grab the latest datasheet for your build review.

Technical datasheet

Detailed specs for PC-ABS.

Download PDFStart Steam quote
Applications & field work

Where PC-ABS excels

PC-ABS blends the impact resistance and heat deflection of Polycarbonate with the surface quality and processability of ABS, creating an ideal material for functional prototypes and production parts. This engineered blend delivers the best of both materials without the processing challenges of pure PC.

The material's excellent surface finish and dimensional stability make it perfect for parts requiring both aesthetics and functionality. With heat deflection up to 110°C and superior impact strength, PC-ABS bridges the gap between standard ABS and engineering-grade Polycarbonate.

Forge Labs' optimized print parameters ensure consistent material properties across builds, critical for multi-part assemblies. Our soluble support material enables complex internal geometries while maintaining the surface quality required for painted or textured finishes.

Mechanical
Tensile Strength: 34.7 MPa
ASTM D638 - 41 MPa tensile
Thermal
Heat Deflection Temperature @ 0.45 MPa (XY): 117.9 °C
HDT 110°C @ 0.45 MPa
Physical
Density: 1.10 g/cm³
Electrical
Volume Resistivity: >6.84×10¹⁴ Ω·cm
FDM applications showcase
Forge Labs Steam Platform

Manufacturing intelligence for PC-ABS

Every FDM build stays in sync inside Steam. Real-time DFM catches issues before production, instant quoting keeps timelines predictable.

Upload parts

Industry applications for PC-ABS

From consumer electronics to automotive interiors, PC-ABS enables products that balance performance, aesthetics, and cost. Explore how companies leverage this versatile blend.

PC-ABS provides the perfect balance of strength, aesthetics, and moldability for electronic enclosures. The material's excellent surface finish accepts painting and texturing while providing impact protection.

Key Applications

  • Smartphone and tablet prototypes
  • Computer peripheral housings
  • Audio equipment enclosures
  • Wearable device components

Performance Data

Achieves surface roughness of Ra 16 μm with vapor smoothing, enabling Class A painted surfaces while maintaining impact strength of 196 J/m.

PC-ABS combines the heat resistance needed for automotive applications with the surface quality required for interior aesthetics. The material withstands dashboard temperatures while maintaining color stability.

Key Applications

  • Center console components and trim
  • HVAC vents and controls
  • Door panel inserts and handles
  • Instrument cluster bezels

Performance Data

Heat deflection of 110°C exceeds automotive interior requirements, while notched impact strength of 106 J/m survives airbag deployment testing.

PC-ABS offers the chemical resistance and durability required for medical equipment housings. The material's smooth surface facilitates cleaning while resisting common hospital disinfectants.

Key Applications

  • Portable diagnostic device housings
  • Medical cart components
  • Equipment control panels
  • Protective covers and guards

Performance Data

Withstands 1000+ cycles of hospital-grade disinfectant exposure including 70% isopropanol and quaternary ammonium compounds.

PC-ABS provides robust protection for industrial equipment while maintaining the aesthetic quality expected in modern manufacturing environments. The material resists oils and chemicals common in industrial settings.

Key Applications

  • Control panel housings and bezels
  • Machine interface components
  • Protective equipment covers
  • Handheld tool housings

Performance Data

Maintains dimensional stability ±0.2% after 500 hours exposure to cutting fluids and industrial lubricants at 60°C.

PC-ABS production examples

FDM applications showcase

FDM applications showcase

Industrial FDM Applications

PC-ABS automotive dashboard component

PC-ABS automotive dashboard component

Dashboard Assembly

Architectural prototype showing surface finish

Architectural prototype showing surface finish

Design Prototype

Performance Dashboard

Technical performance for PC-ABS

PC-ABS delivers dependable strength and impact resistance for Automotive dashboard and interior components and Electronic device housings and computer cases, helping teams move from prototype to production with confidence.

Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength

34.7 MPa

PC-ABS records Tensile Strength at 34.7 MPa, reinforcing its mechanical properties story.

Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength (XZ)

34.7 MPa

PC-ABS records Tensile Strength (XZ) at 34.7 MPa, reinforcing its mechanical properties story.

Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength (ZX)

25.9 MPa

PC-ABS records Tensile Strength (ZX) at 25.9 MPa, reinforcing its mechanical properties story.

PC-ABS combines Superior Impact Resistance - Exceptional toughness with 241 J/m notched impact strength and High Heat Performance - Heat deflection temperature up to 126°C for thermal applications to support Automotive dashboard and interior components and Electronic device housings and computer cases that demand production-ready durability.

Measurement
PC-ABSBase
Standard
Tensile Strength34.7 MPa—
Tensile Strength (XZ)34.7 MPa—
Tensile Strength (ZX)25.9 MPa—
Yield Strength (XZ)36.5 MPa—
Elastic Modulus (XZ)1.99 GPa—
Elastic Modulus (ZX)1.87 GPa—
Flexural Strength (XZ)61.9 MPa—
Flexural Strength (ZX)46.2 MPa—
Flexural Modulus (XZ)1.86 GPa—
Flexural Modulus (ZX)1.68 GPa—
Elongation at Break (XZ)4.7 %—
Elongation at Break (ZX)1.8 %—
Elongation at Yield (XZ)3.0 %—
Impact Strength (Notched XZ)241 J/m—
Impact Strength (Notched ZX)34.0 J/m—
Impact Strength (Unnotched XZ)655 J/m—
Impact Strength (Unnotched ZX)101 J/m—
Compressive Yield Strength (XZ)96.5 MPa—
Compressive Yield Strength (ZX)172 MPa—
Compressive Modulus (XZ)2.14 GPa—
Compressive Modulus (ZX)1.85 GPa—
Mechanical Performance

Mechanical Properties

PC-ABS delivers dependable strength and impact resistance for Automotive dashboard and interior components and Electronic device housings and computer cases, helping teams move from prototype to production with confidence.

PC-ABS delivers exceptional mechanical performance with excellent strength characteristics, effectively handling demanding load conditions. Its balanced mechanical profile allows it to maintain structural integrity while preventing brittleness in critical applications.

These qualities make it well-suited for Automotive dashboard and interior components, Electronic device housings and computer cases, and Consumer appliance prototypes and production parts, providing long-term durability in demanding environments. PC-ABS maintains dimensional stability over time, ensuring consistent performance across temperature and stress variations.

This makes it a reliable choice for applications requiring precise geometries and tight tolerances across Automotive, Electronics, and Consumer Products. Its versatility and durability allow it to perform consistently across a wide range of mechanical applications, ensuring parts maintain their integrity under repetitive stress and environmental conditions.

PC-ABS combines Superior Impact Resistance - Exceptional toughness with 241 J/m notched impact strength and High Heat Performance - Heat deflection temperature up to 126°C for thermal applications to support Automotive dashboard and interior components and Electronic device housings and computer cases that demand production-ready durability.

Key metric

Tensile Strength

34.7 MPa

Key metric

Tensile Strength (XZ)

34.7 MPa

Key metric

Tensile Strength (ZX)

25.9 MPa

Dive into the data

Detailed mechanical measurements live in the performance dashboard above. Switch tabs to compare against other materials instantly.

Material Makeup

Physical Properties

PC-ABS offers consistent density and surface quality so critical features hold tolerances and downstream finishing remains predictable.

PC-ABS exhibits a density of 1.10 g/cm³ that contributes to lightweight yet durable parts. With moisture absorption of 0.2-0.3 %, ensures dimensional stability in varying environmental conditions.

These physical properties enable consistent part quality and predictable performance across Automotive dashboard and interior components, Electronic device housings and computer cases, and Consumer appliance prototypes and production parts. The material's inherent characteristics minimize warpage and maintain tight tolerances throughout the part lifecycle.

For Automotive, Electronics, and Consumer Products, these physical attributes translate to reliable production outcomes with minimal post-processing requirements, ensuring parts meet specifications straight from the build platform.

PC-ABS delivers 1.10 g/cm³ density so assemblies fit and finish without secondary rework.

Key metric

Density

1.10 g/cm³

Key metric

Specific Gravity

1.10

Key metric

Water Absorption (24h)

0.2-0.3 %

Dive into the data

Detailed physical properties measurements live in the performance dashboard above. Switch tabs to compare against other materials instantly.

Heat Performance

Thermal Properties

PC-ABS maintains dimensional stability through temperature swings, making it a reliable option for Automotive and Electronics programs that see repeated thermal cycling.

PC-ABS demonstrates excellent thermal stability with a heat deflection temperature of 117.9 °C, enabling it to maintain dimensional accuracy in elevated temperature environments. This thermal performance ensures parts retain their shape and mechanical properties even under thermal stress.

The material's thermal characteristics make it ideal for Automotive dashboard and interior components, Electronic device housings and computer cases, and Consumer appliance prototypes and production parts that experience temperature fluctuations. Its ability to withstand thermal cycling without degradation ensures long-term reliability in Automotive, Electronics, and Consumer Products.

With an operating temperature range up to 96-112 °C, PC-ABS provides engineers with confidence when designing parts for thermally demanding applications, from under-hood automotive components to industrial equipment exposed to heat sources.

PC-ABS maintains geometry with a Heat Deflection Temperature @ 0.45 MPa (XY) of 117.9 °C, protecting dimensional integrity during heat cycling.

Key metric

Heat Deflection Temperature @ 0.45 MPa (XY)

117.9 °C

Key metric

Heat Deflection Temperature @ 0.45 MPa (XZ/ZX)

126.1 °C

Key metric

Heat Deflection Temperature @ 1.8 MPa (XY)

107.5 °C

Dive into the data

Detailed thermal properties measurements live in the performance dashboard above. Switch tabs to compare against other materials instantly.

Functional Performance

Electrical Properties

PC-ABS provides predictable electrical behavior for housings and functional prototypes that need controlled resistivity and dielectric strength.

PC-ABS provides controlled electrical resistivity of >6.84×10¹⁴ Ω·cm, making it suitable for electrical housings and insulators. The material's insulation properties ensure reliable performance in electrical assemblies.

These electrical characteristics enable its use in Automotive dashboard and interior components, Electronic device housings and computer cases, and Consumer appliance prototypes and production parts where electrical performance is critical. The material maintains consistent electrical properties across its operating temperature range, ensuring stable performance in varying conditions.

For Automotive, Electronics, and Consumer Products requiring precise electrical behavior, PC-ABS delivers the consistency and reliability needed for functional prototypes and production parts that interact with electrical systems.

PC-ABS posts >6.84×10¹⁴ Ω·cm Volume Resistivity, giving enclosures dependable insulating performance.

Key metric

Volume Resistivity

>6.84×10¹⁴ Ω·cm

Key metric

Dielectric Constant (1 kHz, XY)

2.62

Key metric

Dielectric Constant (1 kHz, XZ/ZX)

2.74

Dive into the data

Detailed electrical properties measurements live in the performance dashboard above. Switch tabs to compare against other materials instantly.

Compatibility Data

Chemical Properties

PC-ABS offers tested chemical resistance across acids, bases, solvents, and hydrocarbons to ensure reliable performance in harsh environments.

PC-ABS demonstrates broad chemical resistance with testing against 10 different chemicals, showing excellent compatibility with 1 substances and good compatibility with 7 others. This extensive chemical resistance profile makes it suitable for harsh industrial environments.

The material's resistance to acids, bases, solvents, and hydrocarbons enables its use in Automotive dashboard and interior components, Electronic device housings and computer cases, and Consumer appliance prototypes and production parts that require exposure to aggressive chemicals. Its chemical inertness ensures parts maintain their mechanical properties even after prolonged chemical exposure.

For Automotive, Electronics, and Consumer Products, this chemical stability translates to longer service life and reduced maintenance requirements, making PC-ABS a cost-effective choice for chemically demanding applications.

PC-ABS has been tested against 10 chemicals with 1 showing excellent compatibility for demanding chemical environments.

Key metric

Motor Oil

Excellent

Type: Hydrocarbon

Dive into the data

Detailed chemical properties measurements live in the performance dashboard above. Switch tabs to compare against other materials instantly.

Chemical Resistance

Chemical compatibility for PC-ABS

Evaluate how PC-ABS responds to common chemicals before you commit to production tooling. Filter the grid to focus on acids, bases, solvents, or hydrocarbons.

10 of 10 chemicals shown

ChemicalTypeCompatibility
Motor OilHydrocarbonExcellent
GasolineHydrocarbonGood
Ethanol (10%)SolventGood
Isopropyl AlcoholSolventGood
AcetoneSolventPoor
Methylene ChlorideSolventPoor
Hydrochloric Acid (10%)AcidGood
Sodium Hydroxide (10%)BaseGood
Detergents (Synthetic)BaseGood
Brake FluidHydrocarbonGood to Excellent
Medical Readiness

Biocompatibility and compliance profile

PC-ABS meets key medical standards so teams can accelerate regulatory reviews and develop parts with short-term contact requirements.

Compliance standards

Download certificates to include with quality documentation or share with your QA team.

StandardCertifiedNotes
UL 94 V-0CertifiedFlame retardant rating for electrical applications
RoHS ComplianceCertifiedRestriction of Hazardous Substances directive
REACH ComplianceCertifiedEuropean chemical safety regulation
BiocompatibilityPendingNot certified for implantable medical devices

Medical-ready programs

Common applications our medical customers pursue with PC-ABS.

  • Medical equipment housings and diagnostic devices
Resources

Datasheets and design resources

Equip your team with certification packs, design guides, and spec sheets tailored to PC-ABS.

Download center

Access the most recent datasheet and supporting documentation maintained by our engineering team.

Resources

Material DatasheetMechanical Properties Overview

Design guidelines

Explore printable geometry recommendations, wall thickness tips, and finishing playbooks for FDM.

View FDM design guide

Compliance certificates

Keep your quality packet current with pre-approved certifications.

UL 94 V-0Certified
RoHS ComplianceCertified
REACH ComplianceCertified

Related Materials

ABS

ABS

Industrial-Grade FDM Thermoplastic

Compare Materials >
ASA

ASA

UV-Resistant Thermoplastic for Outdoor Applications

Compare Materials >

Advanced Manufacturing

Built with Precision FDM Technology

PC-ABS is manufactured using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology, offering reliable performance for functional prototypes and end-use parts.

FDM Manufacturing Lab

PC-ABS runs on industrial FDM platforms with heated chambers, hardened extrusion paths, and qualified material profiles to guarantee consistent layer adhesion and mechanical integrity.

Process Parameters

Layer Height
0.127 - 0.330 mm
Tolerance
± 0.127 mm (± 0.005")
  • Build Volume: 914 × 610 × 914 mm. Large production capacity enables efficient manufacturing of multiple parts or assemblies.
  • Quality Control. In-process monitoring and batch traceability ensure consistent part quality and material properties.

Finishing Options

Support removalSandingDrillingTappingPaintingVapor smoothingChemical smoothing
Learn more about FDM Technology
Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions about PC-ABS

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Reach out to our customer support team.

PC-ABS is known for its superior impact resistance - exceptional toughness with 241 j/m notched impact strength, high heat performance - heat deflection temperature up to 126°c for thermal applications, excellent surface finish - smooth, aesthetic surfaces with minimal post-processing, making it suitable for automotive and electronics applications.

Ready to Get Started with PC-ABS?

Upload your design and get an instant quote for PC-ABS parts.

Get an Instant QuoteCompare All Materials

Click to start your quote

STL, STEP, OBJ, 3MF supported | Get instant pricing

6
Industrial 3D Print Technologies
50+
Plastics, Resins & Metals