PBT – Polybutylene terephthalate

PBT: Pocan, Ultradur, Teradur, Later

Typical applications

Electrical Engineering, Electronics (E&E) and Telecommunications

PBT is one of the most commonly used materials in this sector, as it maintains excellent insulating properties even at high frequencies and in dry, hot environments.

• Connectors and sockets: High-voltage automotive connectors, computer connectors (e.g. USB housings), chip and relay sockets.
• Switchgear: Switch housings, circuit breakers, relays and junction boxes.
• Lighting technique: Lamp sockets, LED spotlight housings, sockets for energy-saving and halogen lamps, and energy-saving modules.
• Windings: Coils for transformers, electric motors and solenoid valves.

Automotive industry (Electrical and exterior)

PBT is excellent at withstanding high temperatures under the hood and chemicals such as motor oils and gasoline.

• Ignition systems: Ignition distributor covers, ignition coils and sensor housings.
• Headlights: Inner headlight frames and reflectors (where high temperatures and dimensional accuracy are critical).
• External components: Door handles, side mirror and wiper housings, radiator grilles.

Consumer goods and household appliances

Due to its good surface appearance, stain resistance and heat resistance, PBT is widely used in daily life.

• Small household appliances: Parts of coffee makers, toaster housings, irons, hair dryers and hair straighteners.
• Computer peripherals: High quality mechanical keyboard keys (PBT keycaps) – unlike cheaper ABS plastic, PBT does not wear down to a high gloss (does not become “greasy”) and does not yellow.
• Bristles: Bristles for high-end toothbrushes, cosmetic brushes, and industrial brushes (as they have excellent elastic rebound).

Quick comparison: PBT vs. PA and POM

The most common modification: PBT + GF

In practice, more than 70 % PBT materials are used in the form of PBT + GF30 (reinforced with 30 % glass fibers). This addition dramatically increases the load deflection temperature (HDT) from around 60 °C to over 200 °C, which allows the material to work in the most demanding thermal conditions.