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Rods
44 sizes · 69 SKUs| Short Description | Color | Diameter | Length | Stock | Price | Add to quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hydex 4101 (PBT) - 0.375" dia x 120 Natural Rod | Natural | 0.375″ | 120″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| Hydex 4101L PBT (PBT) - 0.375" dia x 120 Natural Rod | Natural | 0.375″ | 120″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| Hydex 4101 (PBT) - 0.500" dia x 120 Black Rod | Black | 0.500″ | 120″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| Hydex 4101 (PBT) - 0.500" dia x 120 Natural Rod | Natural | 0.500″ | 120″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| Hydex 4101 (PBT) - 0.500" dia x 60 Black Rod | Black | 0.500″ | 60″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| Hydex 4101L PBT (PBT) - 0.500" dia x 120 Natural Rod | Natural | 0.500″ | 120″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| Hydex 4101L PBT (PBT) - 0.500" dia x 36 Natural Rod | Natural | 0.500″ | 36″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| Hydex 4101L PBT (PBT) - 0.500" dia x 96 Natural Rod | Natural | 0.500″ | 96″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| Hydex 4101 (PBT) - 0.625" dia x 120 Black Rod | Black | 0.625″ | 120″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| Hydex 4101 (PBT) - 0.625" dia x 120 Natural Rod | Natural | 0.625″ | 120″ | Out of stock | Contact |
Material Overview
What is PBT?
PBT material — polybutylene terephthalate — is a semi-crystalline engineering polyester thermoplastic that balances strong electrical insulation properties with good moisture resistance and mechanical reliability. Part of the polyester family alongside PET, PBT is distinguished by its lower moisture absorption and faster crystallization rate, which translates into consistent dimensional stability in humid and electrically demanding environments.
PBT plastic provides reliable dielectric properties across a broad temperature range, low moisture uptake that prevents swelling and tolerance drift, and good chemical resistance to many oils, fuels, and weak acids. Its semi-crystalline structure gives it predictable mechanical behavior and makes it suitable for structural components that must perform consistently over time.
Typical applications include electrical connectors, relay housings, sensor bodies, automotive under-hood components, and precision industrial parts where stable electrical performance and resistance to humidity are critical. PBT is also selected for its clean machinability when tight tolerances are required in production quantities.
Ready Plastics stocks PBT in rod and sheet for machined components. For stiffer, higher-stiffness applications, see PBT GF30 — the 30% glass-fiber-reinforced variant, which significantly raises flexural modulus and improves creep resistance. Visit the PBT product page for stock information and quote requests.
Frequently Asked Questions
PBT, answered
What is PBT material?
PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) is a semi-crystalline engineering polyester thermoplastic known for excellent electrical insulation, low moisture absorption, and good chemical resistance. It is widely used in electrical connectors, automotive components, and precision industrial parts where stable dimensional performance is required.
What is the difference between PBT and PBT GF30?
PBT GF30 is PBT reinforced with 30% glass fiber, which significantly increases stiffness, reduces creep, and improves dimensional stability under load and heat. Unfilled PBT is preferred when machinability and toughness matter more than maximum stiffness.
How does PBT compare to PET?
PBT and PET are both semi-crystalline polyesters, but PBT has lower moisture absorption and faster crystallization, giving it better dimensional stability in humid conditions. PET typically offers higher tensile strength and better wear resistance. Choose PBT for electrical and moisture-sensitive applications; choose PET when maximum strength and wear resistance are priorities.
What shapes does Ready Plastics stock in PBT?
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