As a general rule, it is important to note that there is no single plastic material that can optimally meet all requirements. The most suitable material for a plastic enclosure always depends on the specific application. At OKW, we use only high-quality, single-grade plastics that comply with environmental regulations and directives such as REACH, RoHS and WEEE. These materials also support sustainable end-of-life management through efficient recycling.
The most common plastic materials we use and their technical advantages:
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene)
Good resistance at moderate temperatures, combined with good impact strength and antistatic properties. Good overall resistance to chemicals. UV light can have an adverse effect.
Applications:
Housings and control elements of all kinds. Suitable for use in enclosed spaces, including at low temperatures.
ASA (acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate)
Similar properties to ABS, but more scratch-resistant and with better colour stability. Very good resistance to ageing and weathering, including exposure to light (UV), particularly in dark colours.
Applications:
Housings of all kinds. Particularly suitable for outdoor applications.
PC (polycarbonate)
High-temperature-resistant thermoplastic with excellent strength at all temperatures. Good overall resistance to chemicals and UV light.
Applications:
Recommended for housings and rotary knobs in enclosed spaces and also outdoors. Not recommended for use in conjunction with strong alkalis or direct sunlight.
PC+ABS (blends), flame-retardant V-0
Good resistance to high temperatures combined with high impact strength and cold impact strength. Good overall resistance to chemicals. UV light may have an adverse effect.
Applications:
Ideal for use indoors in moderately corrosive conditions. Suitable for outdoor use to a limited extent.
ASA+ABS (blends), flame-retardant V-0
Good resistance to high temperatures combined with high impact strength. Good overall resistance to chemicals. High weather resistance.
Applications:
Recommended for enclosures in indoor and outdoor environments.
Selection of standard enclosures made from flame-retardant plastic UL 94 V-0
PMMA (Plexiglas©)
Good mechanical properties, more brittle than ABS. High-quality appearance. Light transmittance of up to 92% for certain types.
Applications:
Enclosures and enclosure components requiring full light transmission or for infrared applications.
PA (polyamide), 6x reinforced
High-temperature-resistant thermoplastic with good strength and high toughness. Good sliding properties and wear resistance. May absorb moisture.
Applications:
Ideal for technical components with complex geometries and rotary knobs, including for outdoor use and mechanical engineering.
TPE (elastomer), SEBS/SEPS
Weather-resistant and resistant to many chemicals. The properties of thermoplastic elastomers can vary depending on their Shore hardness.
Applications:
Ideal for protective covers to safeguard housings and their surroundings. Gives handheld housings a pleasant, non-slip feel.
Conclusion:
For most products such as control units, measuring instruments or small electronic housings, PC/ABS or ABS is used today, as these materials offer a good combination of stability, surface quality and cost-effectiveness.
For general-purpose electronic enclosures: ABS – a good balance between price, stability and workability.
For particularly robust or heat-stressed enclosures: PC/ABS – often the first choice in professional equipment manufacturing.
For maximum impact resistance: polycarbonate (PC).