---
title: "POM vs. ABS vs. PC for Plastic Covers: Key Comparisons - JATERSON"
description: "Global demand for durable plastic covers is rising, but material selection remains a pain point. Comparing POM with ABS and PC reveals critical differences in performance, processing, and cost. Zhejiang-based JATERSON prioritizes material fit to reduce risks and optimize costs."
url: "https://www.jaterson.com/manufacturing/pom-vs-abs-pc-plastic-covers-comparisons.html"
language: "en"
type: "Article"
category: "Plastic Component Manufacturing Guide"
datePublished: "2026-10-23"
dateModified: "2026-10-23"
brand: "JATERSON"
manufacturer: "JATERSON"
image: "https://static.jaterson.com/uploads/industry/housing/TmSXF1TwSUwkR.webp"
---

# POM vs. ABS vs. PC for Plastic Covers: Key Comparisons

## Common Misconception About POM for Plastic Covers

A common myth among procurement managers and product designers is that polyoxymethylene (POM) is the universal solution for all plastic covers.Many assume its high stiffness and low friction make it ideal for every application,but this overlooks critical limitations.For example,a client once approached JATERSON requesting POM for an outdoor garden tool cover—only to realize later that POM’s poor UV resistance caused the cover to crack within three months of outdoor exposure.The truth is: material selection for plastic covers depends on a balance of application needs,processing feasibility,and cost—not just one or two properties.

![Avoid Mistakes: POM vs. Other Materials for Plastic Covers](https://static.jaterson.com/uploads/industry/housing/TmSXF1TwSUwkR.webp)

## Key Materials for Plastic Covers: POM,ABS,and PC

When selecting materials for plastic covers,three options are most commonly considered: POM,ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene),and PC (polycarbonate).Each has unique properties that make it suitable for specific use cases.Let’s break down their core characteristics before diving into a detailed comparison.

POM is a crystalline thermoplastic known for its excellent dimensional stability,low coefficient of friction,and high mechanical strength.It’s often used in parts that require precise fit and wear resistance,like gear covers or mechanical component housings.However,it’s not resistant to UV radiation or high temperatures (above 100°C),which limits its outdoor use.

ABS is a copolymer that combines the toughness of butadiene,the rigidity of acrylonitrile,and the processability of styrene.It’s cost-effective,easy to mold,and offers good impact resistance—making it a popular choice for consumer electronics covers and indoor [appliance housings](https://www.jaterson.com/injection-molding-for-small-appliance-housings/).But it’s prone to scratching and has lower heat resistance than PC.

PC is a transparent thermoplastic with exceptional heat resistance (up to 120°C) and impact strength.It’s ideal for outdoor applications or parts that need transparency,like medical device covers or outdoor lighting housings.However,it’s more expensive than POM and ABS,and requires careful processing to avoid defects.

## Detailed Comparison of POM vs.ABS vs.PC

To help you make an informed decision,here’s a structured comparison of these three materials based on key factors relevant to plastic cover manufacturing:

| Material | Key Properties | Processing Ease | Cost (2026 Market Average) | Best Applications |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| POM | Low friction,high stiffness,dimensional stability; poor UV/heat resistance (>100°C) | Requires controlled cooling (mold temp:80-100°C); shrinkage rate:1.5-2.5%; needs pre-drying | Mid-range: $2.5-$3.5/kg | Indoor mechanical covers,gear housings,precision component covers |
| ABS | Good impact resistance,moderate stiffness; prone to scratching | Easy to mold; low shrinkage (0.5-1.5%); minimal pre-processing | Low: $1.8-$2.8/kg | Consumer electronics covers,toy housings,indoor appliance covers |
| PC | High heat resistance (>120°C),transparent,impact-resistant; brittle at low temps | Requires high mold temp (100-120°C); shrinkage rate:0.5-1%; needs thorough drying | High: $3.0-$4.5/kg | Outdoor covers,medical device housings,transparent lighting covers |

![POM vs. ABS vs. PC for Plastic Covers: Key Comparisons](https://static.jaterson.com/uploads/industry/default/YE5Y9P73f8TqB.webp)

## Practical Selection Guide for Plastic Cover Materials

Choosing the right material for your plastic cover involves evaluating several critical factors.Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you decide:

- Define your application environment: Is the cover used indoors or outdoors?Does it need to withstand high temperatures or UV exposure?For outdoor use,PC is a better choice than POM.
- Identify performance requirements: Do you need high impact resistance (ABS or PC)?[Dimensional stability](https://www.jaterson.com/knowledge/dimensional-stability/) (POM)?Transparency (PC)?Prioritize the properties that are non-negotiable for your product.
- Assess processing feasibility: Work with your manufacturer to understand if they can handle the material’s processing needs.For example,POM requires precise mold temperature control—JATERSON’s injection molding lines are equipped with temperature-controlled molds to ensure quality POM parts.
- Compare total cost: Consider both material cost and production cost.While ABS is cheaper upfront,if your cover needs high wear resistance,POM may reduce long-term maintenance costs.PC’s higher cost may be justified for outdoor applications where durability is key.
- Test samples: Always request samples from your manufacturer before mass production.JATERSON provides free sample development for clients to validate material fit and performance in their specific use case.

## Manufacturing Considerations for POM Plastic Covers

If you decide to use POM for your plastic cover,there are several manufacturing considerations to keep in mind to ensure quality and consistency:

### Processing Challenges

POM is a crystalline material,which means it has a high shrinkage rate (1.5-2.5%).This can lead to warping if the mold is not designed correctly or if cooling is uneven.To mitigate this,JATERSON’s engineers adjust mold dimensions to account for shrinkage and use temperature-controlled molds to ensure uniform cooling.

Another challenge is POM’s sensitivity to moisture.If POM pellets are not dried properly before injection molding,they can form bubbles or voids in the final part.JATERSON uses [dehumidifying dryers](https://www.jaterson.com/knowledge/dehumidifying-dryer/) to remove moisture from POM pellets,ensuring a smooth,defect-free finish.

### Quality Control Points

To maintain quality,JATERSON implements strict quality control measures for POM parts:

- Dimensional inspection: Using coordinate measuring machines (CMM) to verify that parts meet tight tolerances (±0.05mm for critical dimensions).
- Warpage testing: Placing parts on a flat surface to check for unevenness—any warpage beyond 0.5mm is rejected.
- Mechanical testing: Conducting tensile strength tests per ISO 527 to ensure parts meet the required strength standards.

### Common Mistakes to Avoid

When working with POM,avoid these common mistakes:

- Skipping the pre-drying step: This leads to bubbles and voids in the cover.
- Using incorrect mold temperature: Too low,and the part will be brittle; too high,and it may warp.
- Ignoring shrinkage: Failing to adjust mold dimensions for POM’s shrinkage rate will result in parts that are too small or do not fit correctly.

## Final Recommendation: When to Choose POM for Your Plastic Cover

POM is an excellent choice for plastic covers if your application meets the following criteria:

- The cover is used indoors (no UV exposure).
- It requires high dimensional stability and low friction (e.g.covers for sliding or rotating parts).
- Temperature exposure is below 100°C.
- You prioritize long-term wear resistance over low upfront cost.

For outdoor applications,PC is a better option.For cost-sensitive indoor covers that need impact resistance,ABS is ideal.At JATERSON,our engineering team works closely with clients to assess their needs and recommend the best material for their plastic cover project—ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency.

## Related Resources

- [Plastic Component Manufacturing Guide](https://www.jaterson.com/manufacturing/plastic-components/)
- [Injection Molding Guide](https://www.jaterson.com/manufacturing/injection-molding/)
- [Hardware Manufacturing Guide](https://www.jaterson.com/manufacturing/hardware/)
- [Capabilities](https://www.jaterson.com/capabilities/)
- [Custom Manufacturing](https://www.jaterson.com/custom-manufacturing/)
- [Products](https://www.jaterson.com/products/)
- [Manufacturing Guides](https://www.jaterson.com/manufacturing/)
- [Buying Guides](https://www.jaterson.com/buying/)
- [Manufacturing Knowledge Base](https://www.jaterson.com/knowledge/)
- [Plastic Components](https://www.jaterson.com/knowledge/plastic-components/)
- [Plastic Components Q&A](https://www.jaterson.com/qa/plastic-components/)

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