🧩 PBT+ABS – Polybutylene Terephthalate + Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
(A durable and easy-to-process hybrid material that combines the chemical and thermal resistance of PBT with the high impact toughness of ABS. PBT+ABS offers an excellent balance between rigidity, elasticity, and finish.)
🔹 What is PBT+ABS
PBT+ABS is a compatibilized blend between two widely used polymers. PBT ensures the material is rigid and resistant to oils and heat, while ABS adds impact resistance and coloring ease. The result is a shock-resistant plastic with controlled gloss and dimensional stability, featuring much better resistance to fuels and chemicals compared to standard ABS.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Base: 60–80% PBT, 20–40% ABS.
- Density: 1.20–1.35 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: ≈ 220–230 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Very good (oils, fuels, solvents).
- Continuous Heat Resistance: 100–120 °C.
🚗 Where PBT+ABS is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Interior Trim | Covers, frames, consoles | Controlled gloss, aesthetic finish |
| Light Exterior | Sensor mounts, frames | Good resistance to oils and UV |
| Electrical | Connector housings, mounts | High insulation and rigidity |
| Technical Parts | Guides and fasteners | Mechanical strength and stability |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 250 – 270 °C | Uniform melting, no burning |
| Plastic Extrusion | 240 – 260 °C | Suitable for large or thick parts |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 240 – 260 °C | Clean, smooth bonding |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: PBT, PBT+PC, PBT+PET, PBT+ASA, PC+ABS, ABS+PC, ABS.
- ⚠️ Good Compatibility: PBT+GF, PA+PBT, PC+PBT.
- ❌ Incompatible: PP, PE, PS, PMMA, PVC (completely different melting points).
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: Use PBT or PC+ABS rods at 260 °C. Maintain constant temperature and moderate airflow. For a glossy finish, apply a quick pass with hot air after the weld has cooled down.
🧠 How to Identify PBT+ABS
- Engraved marking: >PBT+ABS<, >VALOX<, >XENOY<, >ULTRADUR<.
- Texture: Semi-glossy, smooth, slightly elastic.
- ReplastMD practical test: If the part is rigid but slightly resilient with a PBT+ABS mark, it’s confirmed. Softens at ≈ 225 °C and releases a faint sweet scent when burned.
🛠️ PBT+ABS Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional PBT+ABS welding for aesthetic and technical parts, ensuring a high-strength, clean, and factory-grade finish.