What is Polyethylene terephtalate PET?

Polyethylene terephtalate (PET), also known as polyester or lavsan, is a high-strength engineering plastic. It is distinguished by its very low and stable friction coefficient, which contributes to a longer wear cycle compared to other plastics such as PA or POM. PET can operate at higher temperatures and is more resistant to various acids. Additionally, it does not absorb moisture, ensuring dimensional stability during production.

However, PET is not durable under sudden impacts, especially at temperatures below zero, and is not recommended for use in hot water (over +60°C) and steam, where it decomposes. PET can be produced with various additives, including solid lubricants like PTFE, enhancing its self-lubricating properties and increasing resistance to friction and abrasion.

Key Features of Polyethylene terephtalate PET

• Low Thermal Expansion: Maintains stability under varying temperatures.
• Dimensional Stability: Consistent dimensions during production.
• Mechanical Strength: High hardness, rigidity, and strength.
• Wear Resistance: Long wear cycle with low friction coefficient.
• Chemical Resistance: Resistant to lubricants, fuel, acetone, low-concentration acids, and water up to +40°C.
• Electrical Insulation: Excellent electro-insulation and dielectric properties.
• Moisture Resistance: Very low moisture absorption.
• Workability: Easy to machine and suitable for contact with foodstuffs.
• Color Options: Available in natural (whitish to greyish), black, grey, and other colors.

Applications

PET is widely used in various industries due to its robust properties:

• Mechanical Engineering: Rings, gears, bearings, wheels, levers, and pump parts.
• Medical Equipment: Components requiring high precision and stability.
• Electronics and Electrical: Insulating parts, connectors, and measurement equipment.
• Food Industry: Components in contact with food due to its hygienic properties.
• Automotive: High-load parts like rotating sleeves, heads, wind turbine elements, and guiding rolls.

Characteristics and Benefits

Polyethylene terephtalate PET offers several key advantages:

• Dimensional Stability: Maintains shape and size under high loads and varying temperatures.
• Chemical Resistance: Withstands a wide range of chemicals, enhancing durability.
• Mechanical Strength: Robust and suitable for high-load applications.
• Wear and Friction Resistance: Long-lasting performance with low maintenance.
• Electrical Properties: Effective insulation and dielectric properties.

Technical Specifications

• Density:
  • Standard PET: 1.38 g/cm³
  • Self-lubricating PET: 1.44 g/cm³
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +115°C
• Short-term Operating Temperature: Up to +180°C
• Moisture Absorption: Less than 0.3%
• Color Options: Natural (whitish to greyish), black, grey, and other custom colors

Dimensions of Polyethylene terephtalate PET

	Thickness (mm)	Width (mm)	Length (mm)	Diameter, Ø (mm)
Sheets	2 – 100	610; 620; 1 000	2 000; 3 000	–
Rods	–	–	1 000; 3 000	10 – 200

Discover More

Polyethylene terephtalate PET is an essential material for high-performance industrial applications, offering unmatched strength, stability, and resistance to wear and chemicals.

Looking for additional materials? Explore our technical plastics catalog to discover a wider range of products tailored to your needs.