In most industrial contexts, they are the same material. PET is the standard chemical abbreviation for Polyethylene Terephthalate, commonly used in the packaging and textile industries. PETP is the acronym more frequently used in the European engineering plastics industry to distinguish semi-crystalline, machined stock shapes from the amorphous grades used for bottles and films.

Yes. PETP is an excellent choice for high-load bearings because of its high tensile strength and creep resistance. It maintains its shape under heavy static loads better than many other thermoplastics like Nylon.
However, for extremely high speeds, internally lubricated grades (such as PETP + PTFE) are often recommended to reduce heat build-up.

While both are popular engineering plastics, PETP offers higher tensile strength and better acid resistance than POM. Crucially, PETP has lower moisture absorption, meaning it remains more dimensionally stable in wet environments. However, POM is generally easier to machine and has better impact resistance (it is less brittle).

Absolutely. Natural (unfilled) PETP is physiologically indifferent and widely compliant with FDA and EU food contact regulations. Its resistance to common cleaning chemicals and low water absorption makes it ideal for components in meat, dairy, and bakery production lines.

PETP is susceptible to hydrolysis. When exposed to water or steam at temperatures above c. 60°C to 70°C for prolonged periods, the polymer chains begin to break down. This leads to a significant loss in mechanical strength and eventual embrittlement of the part.

PETP machines well, but it is more brittle than Nylon, so it requires sharp tools and proper cooling to prevent surface chipping. Because of its high crystallinity, PETP produces small, brittle chips rather than long stringy swarf. However its excellent dimensional stability allows for very tight tolerances to be achieved.

Yes, PETP is an outstanding electrical insulator possessing both high dielectric strength and high volume resistivity. Because it absorbs very little moisture, its electrical properties remain consistent even in humid operating conditions, unlike Polyamides (Nylon) which can become more conductive as they absorb water.

The glass transition temperature (T_g) of PETP is approximately 70°C to 80°C. Below this temperature, the material is rigid and dimensionally stable. Once the T_g is exceeded, the material’s mechanical properties, such as stiffness and strength, begin to decrease significantly. For structural applications, it is best to operate well below this threshold.

Standard natural PETP has moderate resistance to UV radiation. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will eventually lead to surface yellowing and a reduction in impact strength. For permanent outdoor installations, black-pigmented grades or UV-stabilised versions should be specified to improve longevity.

Yes, PETP is one of the most widely recycled plastics in the world (identified by the RIC #1 symbol). In an engineering context, clean off-cuts and swarf from machining can often be reground and reused in the production of lower-grade injection-moulded components, contributing to a more sustainable manufacturing cycle.