PET rod is one of those great engineering plastics that possesses the attributes and performance of nylon rod and also combines with the easy machine ability of acetal rod but manages to slip under the radar for most engineers.

PET rod mechanical properties
The data sheet tells us its around 30% stronger than acetal, its also around 25% more rigid. It not also has a better working temperature but its expansion rate is much lower. Expansion due to moisture absorption is also incredibly low, some 60% better than even acetal.

Machine ability of PET rod
We’re told it machines much better than the nylons and apparently comparable with acetal, which we know is a big reason why acetal is very popular

PET rod and food contact
Yes this material has an FDA approval so its compatible with food contact applications

Wear resistance of PET rod
PET rod will certainly outlast acetal in abrasive conditions and it’s at least as good if not better than nylon in some environments

Low friction of PET rod
PET rod typically has a low friction and because it is a very hard engineering plastic, its is classed as being very slippery

There are some disadvantages
Firstly the size range is a bit limited for the time being with only 10, 16, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50 & 60mm diameters available and although black can be ordered from the factory on a special order, its white only for the moment. The other one is price, it’s around +40% more than acetal, its also not suitable for hot water applications which reach over sixty degrees centigrade

PET Rod Compared to Acetal:

    It machines almost as well
    It’s over 30% stronger
    It’s around 25% more rigid
    10 degrees better short term working temperature and 30 degrees better long term
    Has a 25% lower thermal expansion rate
    60% less moisture absorption
    Has a similar coefficient of friction
    Has a much better wear resistance
    Is approx 40% more expensive

PET Rod Compared to Nylon 66

    PET machines much better than nylon
    A similar or better surface finish
    It’s 8% stronger
    Also 10% more rigid
    Has a 10 degree advantage for the short term working temperature
    With 50% lower thermal expansion rate
    Massive 10x (ten times) less moisture absorption
    Has a similar coefficient of friction
    As good if not better wear resistance
    Is approx 50% more expensive