Round Rod in PCT MG 51x1219 mm transparent

Round rod in PCT MG is a good starting material when you want to turn or mill machine parts that have to hold their tolerance even when the surroundings vary. The polyester PCT is related to PET and PBT but has a slightly more open chain structure, which gives the material more stable behavior when the temperature shifts. The MG grade is modified for machining and gives even, fine-grained chip formation in the lathe.

Mechanically PCT MG sits in the same neighborhood as other engineering polyesters: stiff, dimensionally stable and with reasonable impact strength at room temperature. The material has low moisture absorption, so a turned part does not swell measurably in a damp workshop. That is an important difference from the nylons, where moisture can move the dimensions by several tenths on larger components. PCT takes continuous use around 100 degrees and handles shorter exposures somewhat higher, depending on the load case.

Friction is low against steel and lets the material work as a plain bearing without lubrication, although the load has to stay within the range of a plain polyester. Unlike oil-filled or PTFE-filled grades, the base is drier and suits jobs where clean surfaces matter. Chemically PCT handles water, dilute acids and most industrial oils without swelling. Strong bases, concentrated acids and hot aromatic solvents should be avoided.

Common turning jobs in PCT MG are plain bearings and bushings in pumps, shaft sleeves in textile machines, spacer rings, cam discs and guide wheels. The material is also useful for insulating parts on the low voltage side, since the polyester is electrically inert and dry. In machines near food it is used for idler rollers and guide wheels where a clean material that does not take up water is needed.

Machining is easy with ordinary workshop equipment. Carbide inserts in good condition, moderate speed and a decent feed give fine surfaces. The chips are dry and break well, which keeps the work clean. With deep cuts and longer rods it is wise to let the material rest between operations; PCT is relatively dimensionally stable but carries internal stresses that release slowly. Drilling and tapping work without special cooling, but a mild coolant or compressed air improves both the surface and the tool life.

When you pick a dimension it is reasonable to allow a machining allowance of a millimeter or so over the finished size, depending on how deep the cuts the part needs are. The rod comes in standard lengths and we can cut it to the size you want before delivery, which saves space in the workshop and reduces waste. The material is stable in storage in a normal indoor environment.

The rod is 51 mm in diameter and 1219 mm long, crystal clear, for turned parts in medical technology.

Do you need help choosing the right diameter, or weighing PCT MG against POM C or PET? Get in touch, we are glad to talk through the application before you order.