🧩 ABS-FR – Flame Retardant Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
(Technical flame-resistant material, thermally and electrically stable, used in interior automotive components, electrical covers, consoles, and brackets where fire or spark protection is required.)
🔹 What is ABS-FR
ABS-FR (Flame Retardant ABS) is an ABS modified with flame-retardant additives that provide increased resistance to ignition and self-extinguishing properties.
The base structure is the same as normal ABS – acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene – but the formula includes halogenated or phosphorus compounds that reduce flame propagation. ABS-FR maintains gloss, rigidity, and good weldability, making it widely used in automotive interior and electrical components where thermal safety is a priority.
🔧 Composition
- Acrylonitrile – 15–25 % (chemical resistance).
- Butadiene – 10–25 % (elasticity).
- Styrene – 40–60 % (rigidity).
- Flame Retardant Additives – brominated, phosphorus, or halogen-free (10–20 %).
- Density: 1.10–1.20 g/cm³
- Melting Point: ≈ 230–250 °C.
- UL94 Rating: V-0 / V-1 (self-extinguishes within 10 seconds).
🚗 Where ABS-FR is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Interior Electrical | Covers, sensor housings, fuse boxes | Flame resistance, good insulation |
| Console / Dashboard | Panels, technical brackets | High thermal stability |
| Electronic Equip. | Housings, connectors, PCB supports | Electrical protection and self-extinguishing |
| Engine Bay | Protective covers and elements | Higher thermal resistance than normal ABS |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temperature | Observations |
| Hot Air | 260 – 280 °C | Clean weld, but watch for fumes |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 250 – 270 °C | Stable joint, no discoloration |
| Manual Extrusion | 240 – 260 °C | Recommended for long cracks |
🔩 What to Weld ABS-FR With (Material Compatibility)
The question “what to weld ABS-FR with” is common in repairs of electrical parts and technical housings. ABS-FR welds with standard ABS, ABS-HI, and compatible blends (PC/ABS, ASA/ABS).
✅ Compatible with:
- ABS-FR ↔ ABS-FR / ABS / ABS-HI / ASA / SAN – ideal combination.
- ABS-FR ↔ PC/ABS / PMMA-ABS – good compatibility.
- ABS-FR ↔ PS-HI / HIPS – partially compatible.
❌ Incompatible with:
- PP, PE, PA, PVC – different melting points, bonding impossible.
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation:
Use ABS-FR or standard ABS rods at a temperature of 270–280 °C. Avoid overheating (may release gases from flame-retardant additives). After welding, clean the area with isopropyl alcohol and smooth with hot air for a glossy look.
🏭 Manufacturers and Trade Names
- BASF: Terluran® FR, Novodur® FR
- SABIC: Cycolac® FR, Cycoloy® FR
- LG Chem: LUPOY® FR
- Chi Mei: Polylac® FR
🧠 How to Identify ABS-FR
- Engraved marking: >ABS-FR<, >ABS-V0<, >ABS UL94<.
- Glossy or slightly matte surface, often technical colors (grey, black, or beige).
- Flame self-extinguishes when the fire source is removed.
- Softens uniformly at ≈ 260–270 °C without bubbling.
🛠️ ABS-FR Welding at ReplastMD:
At our service center in Chisinau (Ciocana sector), ReplastMD performs professional ABS-FR welding for electrical covers, sensor brackets, and technical consoles, ensuring a solid, clean, and heat-resistant finish.