🧩 PBT+PC – Polybutylene Terephthalate + Polycarbonate (Valox®, Xenoy®)
(A high-performance composite material resulting from the blend of PBT (rigid polyester) and PC (durable polycarbonate). It offers heat resistance, high impact strength, and dimensional stability.)
🔹 What is PBT+PC
PBT+PC is a compatibilized blend of two polymers with complementary properties. PBT contributes rigidity, chemical stability, and oil resistance, while PC adds toughness, impact resistance, and thermal stability. This mechanically balanced material is used in automotive applications where durability and high-temperature resistance (up to 130 °C) are essential. The most famous trade names are Valox® and Xenoy®.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Base: 50–70% PBT, 30–50% Polycarbonate (PC).
- Density: 1.35–1.45 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: ≈ 230 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Excellent (oils, fuels, solvents).
- Continuous Heat Resistance: 120–140 °C.
🚗 Where PBT+PC is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| External Housings | Headlight covers, mirror caps | Rigid and UV resistant |
| Engine Bay | Sensor mounts, ECU housings | Thermostable, oil resistant |
| Electrical Systems | Connectors, battery covers | Electrical insulation, durability |
| Structural Parts | Frames, grilles, supports | Smooth finish, dimensionally stable |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 260 – 280 °C | Uniform melting, watch for PC deformation |
| Plastic Extrusion | 250 – 270 °C | Suitable for thick parts |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 250 – 270 °C | Clean bond, smooth surface |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: PBT, PC, PC+ABS, PC+ASA, PC+PBT, PBT+GF.
- ⚠️ Good Compatibility: PBT+PET, PBT+PA, POM+PBT.
- ❌ Incompatible: PP, PE, PS, ABS, PVC (completely different melting points).
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: Use PBT or PC+PBT rods at 270 °C. Heat the area uniformly to prevent layer peeling. Maintain constant pressure—the material is quite viscous when melted.
🧠 How to Identify PBT+PC
- Engraved marking: >PBT+PC<, >VALOX<, >XENOY<.
- Texture: Semi-glossy, rigid, fine to the touch.
- ReplastMD practical test: If the part is rigid, glossy, slightly heavy, and marked with Xenoy or Valox, it is confirmed. Softens at ≈ 230 °C.
🛠️ PBT+PC Welding at ReplastMD: At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional PBT+PC welding for ECU housings and headlight frames, ensuring a high-strength, durable, and clean finish.