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SAE J1685 Classification System for Automotive ABS and ABS+PC Plastics
SAE J1685 provides a classification and specification system for a limited number of acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene (ABS) and ABS + polycarbonate blend (ABS+PC) plastics used in the automotive industry. Based on ASTM D 4673, this recommended practice adds automotive-specific properties and test methods. Though cancelled in 2005 and superseded by SAE J2642, understanding J1685 remains valuable for legacy specifications and as the foundation for the current practice.
🛠️ Note: SAE J1685 is cancelled. Its content has been incorporated into SAE J2642. For new designs, always refer to the latest revision of SAE J2642.
Scope and Classification Groups
The standard applies only to natural, non-color matched black, and plating gray compounds. Color-matched compounds must be defined by proprietary OEM standards. It covers three primary groups based on chemical type and processing:
- Group 01 – Unreinforced, injection-molded ABS
- Group 04 – Unreinforced, injection-molded ABS+PC blends
- Group 14 – Reinforced or filled, injection-molded ABS+PC (e.g., glass fiber or mineral)
Each group is subdivided into classes (e.g., medium impact, high impact, high heat) and grades that specify precise property requirements as defined in the standard’s Table A1. The table below summarizes the standardized designations extracted from the standard.
| Group | Description | Designation |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | ABS, Injection Molding, Unreinforced | |
| Medium Impact | 0111 | |
| High Impact | 0121 | |
| High Heat | 0131, 0132 | |
| Plating | 0141 | |
| 04 | ABS+PC Blends, Injection Molding, Unreinforced | |
| Medium Impact | 0411 | |
| High Impact | 0412, 0421 | |
| High Heat, High Impact | 0431, 0432 | |
| Plating | 0441 | |
| 14 | ABS+PC, Injection Molding, Reinforced | |
| 10% Glass Fiber | 1411 | |
| 10% Mineral | 1421 |
Using the Line Call-Out Specification
The line call-out is a concise material specification string. For example, SAEJ1685ABS0121 is interpreted as follows:
- SAEJ1685 – Standard identifier
- ABS – Generic symbol per SAE J1344
- 01 – Unreinforced, injection-molding ABS
- 2 – High impact class
- 1 – Grade requiring the properties in Table A1
This system allows engineers to convey complex material requirements in a single, unambiguous string. However, designers must remember that J1685 covers only a limited set of grades; not all commercial ABS products are included. When creating new specifications, rely on the current SAE J2642 standard.
⚠️ This standard excludes color-matched compounds. For color-critical parts, refer to the relevant OEM proprietary standards.
Design Engineering Insights
The structured classification makes it straightforward to specify consistent materials for automotive parts. The line call-out reduces ambiguity in procurement and quality assurance. Nevertheless, since the standard is cancelled, it is essential to migrate to SAE J2642, which provides an expanded framework for developing thermoplastic material specifications. Limits on recycled, reconstituted, or regrind materials are allowed only if they meet original requirements and are clearly identified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was SAE J1685 cancelled?
The SAE Plastics Committee decided in 2004 to withdraw J1685 and incorporate its content into the broader SAE J2642 recommended practice for automotive thermoplastic materials. This consolidation reduces duplication and aligns material classification across multiple polymer families.
How is the line call-out constructed?
The format is SAE J1685 + [ material symbol ] + [ group ] + [ class ] + [ grade ]. For ABS+PC blends, the symbol is ABS+PC. Example: SAEJ1685ABS+PC0411 indicates unreinforced ABS+PC, medium impact, grade 1.
What test methods are referenced in the standard?
J1685 references a comprehensive set of ISO, ASTM, SAE, and other test methods for properties including tensile strength (ISO 527-2), flexural modulus (ISO 178), Izod impact (ISO 180), Vicat softening temperature (ISO 306), heat deflection temperature (ISO 75-2), melt flow rate (ISO 1133), and more. These methods ensure reproducible material characterization.
Can recycled materials be used under J1685?
Yes, as long as the recycled, reconstituted, or regrind material meets all the specified property requirements and is identified as a recycled content material. It cannot be altered or modified to change its suitability for safe processing and use.
