What Materials Are Used for Power Adapter Casings?
Apr 02, 2025
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Most people are familiar with power adapters. In recent years, as electronic devices have become more diverse, the use of internationally certified power adapters has also grown. Today, Boerze will explain the characteristics of different power adapter casing materials.
Power adapter casings are typically made from high-density plastic materials. These plastics can be categorized by their properties, such as standard grade, heat-resistant grade, flame-retardant grade, and plating-grade. The most common plastics used in power adapters are PC (polycarbonate), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), and PC+ABS blends.
PART 1: Characteristics of PC Plastic
Polycarbonate (PC) is a tough thermoplastic resin with the following features:
1.High strength – Tensile strength: 69 MPa; flexural strength: 96 MPa.
2.Heat-resistant – Can withstand long-term use in environments up to 130°C.
3.High transparency & non-toxic – However, it has poorer color-matching and surface coating properties compared to ABS.
4.Excellent electrical insulation – Maintains stable performance across a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels.
5.Flame-retardant & dimensionally stable – These properties make PC widely used in the electronics and electrical industries.
PART 2: Characteristics of ABS Plastic
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a high-strength, impact-resistant, and easily moldable thermoplastic polymer. It performs well in temperatures ranging from -25°C to 60°C and offers excellent surface finish, making it easy to dye and electroplate. Key properties include:
1.Lower strength – Tensile strength: 43 MPa; flexural strength: 79 MPa.
2.Limited heat resistance – Not suitable for long-term use above 60°C.
3.Excellent flowability, coloring, and surface treatment – Ideal for painting, plating, and other secondary processes.
4.Wide applications – Commonly used in home appliances (e.g., washing machines, air conditioners, refrigerators, fans), panels, covers, and structural components. It is also widely used in plastic modification.
PART 3: Characteristics of PC+ABS Plastic
PC+ABS is a blend that combines the advantages of both materials, offering:
1.Balanced strength – Tensile strength: 56 MPa; flexural strength: 86 MPa.
2.Excellent moldability & surface finish – Easy to process, with good dimensional stability and a smooth surface.
3.Enhanced secondary processing – Can be painted, metal-coated, electroplated, welded, or bonded.
4.Versatile applications – Due to its balanced properties, PC+ABS is widely used in electrical components, home appliances, computers, and precision instruments.
By understanding these material properties, manufacturers can choose the best casing material for their power adapters based on durability, heat resistance, and aesthetic requirements.