Dimensional Stability. Wear Resistance
PET is an engineering thermoplastic offering good strength, dimensional stability, and wear resistance.
Select a form factor to view real-time inventory, pricing, and custom cut-to-size options.
| Short Description | Color | Diameter | Length | Stock | Price | Add to quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PET - 0.250" dia x 120 White Rod | White | 0.250″ | 120″ | Out of stock | $6.44per rod | |
| PET - 0.375" dia x 120 White Rod | White | 0.375″ | 120″ | Out of stock | $10.39per rod | |
| Tritan MT TR (PET) - 0.375" dia x 96 Natural Rod | Natural | 0.375″ | 96″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| PET - 0.500" dia x 12 Black Rod | Black | 0.500″ | 12″ | Out of stock | $2.49per rod | |
| PET - 0.500" dia x 120 White Rod | White | 0.500″ | 120″ | Out of stock | $18.48per rod | |
| PET - 0.500" dia x 60 White Rod | White | 0.500″ | 60″ | Out of stock | $9.24per rod | |
| Tritan MT TR (PET) - 0.500" dia x 96 Natural Rod | Natural | 0.500″ | 96″ | Out of stock | Contact | |
| PET - 0.625" dia x 12 Black Rod | Black | 0.625″ | 12″ | Out of stock | $1.95per rod | |
| PET - 0.625" dia x 120 White Rod | White | 0.625″ | 120″ | Out of stock | $25.08per rod | |
| PET - 0.625" dia x 24 Black Rod | Black | 0.625″ | 24″ | Out of stock | $3.89per rod |
Material Overview
PET plastic — polyethylene terephthalate — is a semi-crystalline engineering polyester thermoplastic distinguished by excellent dimensional stability, wear resistance, and very low moisture absorption. These properties make PET material a reliable choice for precision-machined components where tight tolerances must be maintained throughout the service life of the part.
The semi-crystalline structure of PET provides consistent mechanical behavior and a smooth surface finish after machining. Low moisture uptake means parts do not swell or change dimension with humidity variations — a significant advantage over polyamides (nylon) in applications where tolerance stability is critical. PET also demonstrates good fatigue resistance and maintains mechanical performance reliably across its operating temperature range.
Typical applications include precision bushings, wear pads, pump components, guide rollers, and structural parts requiring a stable, smooth-running surface. PET is often preferred over nylon in applications where moisture-induced dimensional change cannot be tolerated and where a stiffer, harder surface is beneficial.
Ready Plastics stocks PET in rod and sheet for machined wear and structural components. Contact us or visit the PET product page for available dimensions and to request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is a semi-crystalline engineering polyester thermoplastic known for excellent dimensional stability, wear resistance, and low moisture absorption. It is widely used for precision-machined parts — bushings, wear pads, and guide components — where tight tolerances and stable mechanical behavior are essential.
PET absorbs significantly less moisture than nylon, so PET parts maintain tighter tolerances in humid environments. Nylon is tougher and has better fatigue resistance in flexing applications. Choose PET when dimensional stability in variable humidity is critical; choose nylon when impact or cyclic fatigue resistance takes priority.
Both PET and PBT are semi-crystalline polyesters, but PET generally offers higher tensile strength and better wear resistance, while PBT has lower moisture absorption and better dimensional stability. PET is preferred for wear parts; PBT is preferred for electrical and moisture-sensitive applications.
Ready Plastics stocks PET in flat sheet and round rod. Contact us or visit the PET product page for available dimensions and cut-to-size options.
Yes. PET machines well on conventional turning, milling, and drilling equipment. Its semi-crystalline structure produces consistent chip formation, good surface finish, and reliable dimensional accuracy.
Get a quote on cut-to-size sheets and rods, request a full data sheet, or talk to a plastics engineer. We answer in under two hours, M–F 8am–6pm ET.
