PETG, or Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol, is a versatile and widely used polymer that you likely encounter in everyday items without even realizing it. It’s commonly found in clear plastic bottles and is frequently used in consumer 3D printing for its durability and ease of use. PETG is a modified version of PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), with the addition of glycol to improve its properties.
Characteristics of PETG:
- Durability and Stability: PETG is known for its robustness and ability to withstand various environmental conditions. It is stable in both low-heat and high-strength environments, making it a popular choice for structural components in 3D printing.
- Printability: PETG offers relatively stable 3D printing properties, making it easier to print compared to some other materials. It is less prone to warping and has good layer adhesion, which helps in achieving high-quality prints with minimal issues.
- Ductility: Unlike PLA (Polylactic Acid), which tends to break suddenly under stress, PETG is more ductile. This means it can bend slightly before breaking, giving you a warning of potential failure. For example, a PETG shelf bracket will start to droop when it’s under too much load, whereas a PLA bracket might suddenly collapse.
Common Variants and Forms:
PETG is often referred to by various names, including PET, PETG, and PETT. These variations reflect slight differences in the formulation, which can affect the material’s translucency, strength, or flexibility. Despite these differences, the general print settings for these variants are similar, with minor adjustments needed to optimize for specific properties like reducing stringing or improving adhesion.
Applications and Uses:
- Flexible Design: PETG’s ductility allows for innovative designs involving flexible geometries. It is ideal for applications like snap-fit enclosures, where components need to flex slightly to fit together, or for parts that require some flexibility while maintaining rigidity, such as bearing holders.
- Structural Components: PETG is frequently used in 3D printing for making structural components that need to be durable and withstand various forces. Its properties make it suitable for creating items that need to endure mechanical stress and environmental factors.
In summary, PETG is a highly adaptable material with practical applications in both everyday products and 3D printing. Its combination of durability, ease of use, and flexibility makes it a valuable choice for various printing and design needs.
3D Printing with PETG: Tips and Tricks
Note: Do refer to your FDM printer and Filament for any specific settings.
- PETG has a higher melting temperature than PLA so we recommend setting your hot end temperature between 235 and 250°C.
- ALWAYS use a fan with PETG as it tends to cool the filament in the hot end and help with retractions.
- Keep your retraction speed slow at 40mm/s or less.
- Set your bed temperature to 80-100°C.
