Why Do Fixed Wallboxes Use PC+ABS Housing?

PC+ABS is used for fixed wallbox housings because it balances impact resistance, rigidity, electrical insulation, flame retardance, weather stability and ease of manufacturing. It is well suited to a large enclosure that remains fixed to a wall and is not moved regularly.

What is PC+ABS?

PC+ABS is a plastic alloy made from polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene.

• PC contributes impact resistance and toughness.
• ABS contributes rigidity and makes the material easier to mould.

Combining the two materials provides a practical balance for a fixed wallbox enclosure.

Why is PC+ABS used for a fixed wallbox?

Balance of toughness and rigidity

A wallbox may be knocked by a vehicle, equipment or other objects near its installation position. PC+ABS provides impact resistance and rigidity, helping the housing resist cracking and protect the components inside.

Electrical insulation and flame retardance

PC+ABS is electrically insulating and has flame-retardant properties. The non-conductive housing provides a protective barrier around the internal electrical components.

Stability in sheltered outdoor locations

PC+ABS provides weather resistance for fixed wallboxes installed in garages, under canopies or in other sheltered outdoor locations. This helps reduce ageing, deformation and discolouration during normal exposure.

Suitable for large moulded housings

PC+ABS flows well during injection moulding. This makes it suitable for producing larger wallbox enclosures with detailed shapes, a consistent surface and a suitable finish.

Practical for volume production

PC+ABS is more economical than pure PC for larger-scale production while providing the material properties needed for a fixed wallbox housing.

How does PC+ABS compare with pure PC?

Material	Typical dé product type	Main reason for use
PC+ABS	Fixed wallbox	Balances toughness, rigidity, mouldability and production cost for a fixed enclosure.
PC	Portable charger	Provides higher impact and weather resistance for equipment that is moved more frequently.

PC+ABS has slightly lower impact and weather resistance than pure PC. A fixed wallbox is normally mounted in one position and does not require the same level of resistance to repeated handling as a portable charger.

For more information about portable charger housings, see why portable chargers use PC housing.

How does the housing relate to its IP rating?

The housing material is one part of the enclosure design. The IP rating applies to the complete wallbox, including its housing, seals and assembly, rather than to the PC+ABS material alone.

For an explanation of the enclosure rating, see what an IP55 rating means. For model-specific housing and installation information, refer to the relevant 7, 11 or 22 kW wallbox user manual.