Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG)
Material Introduction
Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG) is a highly versatile engineering thermoplastic widely used in additive manufacturing for its excellent balance of toughness, clarity, chemical resistance, and ease of printing. PETG combines the strength of ABS with the simplicity and low warping characteristics of PLA, making it ideal for functional prototypes, consumer product housings, jigs, fixtures, and industrial components. Through Neway AeroTech’s precision PETG 3D printing, the material delivers stable extrusion behavior, low shrinkage, and strong layer adhesion, enabling the production of durable, impact-resistant parts with smooth surfaces. PETG’s excellent optical clarity, food-contact suitability (in select grades), and high toughness make it a preferred polymer for engineering applications that require both strength and visual appeal.
International Names or Representative Grades
Region | Common Name | Representative Grades |
|---|---|---|
USA | PETG | PETG 6763, PETG Copolymer Grades |
Europe | Glycol-Modified PET | PETG, A-PETG |
Japan | Industrial PETG | PET-G |
China | PETG塑料 | Standard PETG, High-Impact PETG |
Industry Classification | Engineering Thermoplastic | Clear PETG, Toughened PETG |
Alternative Material Options
For stronger mechanical performance or higher temperature resistance, engineering polymers such as Polycarbonate (PC) or high-performance plastics like PEEK provide superior rigidity and heat tolerance. When flexibility is needed, elastomers like TPU offer remarkable elasticity. For lightweight components requiring resilience and fatigue resistance, Nylon performs exceptionally well. When ease of use or eco-friendliness is more important, PLA remains a cost-effective option. For ultra-smooth surfaces or high-detail precision parts, photopolymer resins may outperform PETG. These alternatives allow engineers to optimize print performance for strength, flexibility, temperature resistance, or surface finish.
Design Purpose
PETG was engineered to provide a thermoplastic combining transparency, toughness, and ease of processing. By introducing glycol into PET, the material gains improved ductility, reduced brittleness, and better thermal stability, making it ideal for extrusion-based manufacturing. In 3D printing, PETG is designed to fill the performance gap between PLA and ABS by offering greater impact resistance, improved environmental stability, and simpler printability without the warping challenges of ABS. PETG is used to create durable prototypes, structural components, protective housings, and parts requiring moisture or chemical resistance.
Chemical Composition (Typical)
Component | Content |
|---|---|
PET Copolymer | Majority |
Glycol Modifier | 5–15% |
Additives | Stabilizers, colorants, impact modifiers |
Physical Properties
Property | Value |
|---|---|
Density | 1.25–1.27 g/cm³ |
Glass Transition Temperature | ~80°C |
Melting Temperature | 220–250°C |
Thermal Conductivity | ~0.20 W/m·K |
Water Absorption | Low |
Mechanical Properties
Property | Value |
|---|---|
Tensile Strength | 45–60 MPa |
Flexural Strength | 60–85 MPa |
Elongation at Break | 20–120% |
Hardness | Shore D 70–80 |
Impact Resistance | High |
Key Material Characteristics
Excellent toughness and impact resistance suitable for functional components
Low warping and strong layer adhesion for consistent print quality
High transparency for visual or aesthetic applications
Good resistance to moisture and many chemicals
Higher ductility than PLA or ABS, reducing brittleness
Good printability without the need for heated chambers
Smooth surface finish for consumer and industrial products
Suitable for large prints due to low shrinkage
Food-safe in select certified formulations
More heat-resistant than PLA but easier to print than ABS
Manufacturability in Different Processes
Additive manufacturing: Performs exceptionally well in extrusion systems using thermoplastic printing.
Multi-material printing: Combines with flexible polymers like TPU for hybrid products.
Functional prototyping: Ideal for robust consumer goods and test components.
CNC post-processing: Can be machined for a better fit and finish.
Mold transition: Serves as an effective prototype material for designs intended for PET or PETG injection molding.
Resin alternatives: When finer surface detail is required, standard resin can be substituted with PETG.
Limited high-heat use; PETG begins softening at moderate temperatures.
Suitable Post-Processing Methods
Sanding and polishing for clearer, smoother surfaces
Heat annealing to improve stiffness and reduce internal stresses
Painting or coating for cosmetic finishes
Chemical cleaning for the removal of supports
Drilling, tapping, or machining for assembly fitment
Surface smoothing using controlled solvent exposure (limited use)
Dimensional testing using material testing and analysis when inspection is necessary
Adhesive bonding for mechanical assemblies
Common Industries and Applications
Consumer product housings, protective covers, and casings
Food packaging prototypes (non-contact grades)
Medical device mock-ups and laboratory equipment fixtures
Automotive interior clips and brackets
Transparent enclosures and display components
Robotics, automation, and sensor housings
Industrial jigs, fixtures, and functional prototypes
When to Choose This Material
When producing strong, impact-resistant functional prototypes
When transparency or aesthetic clarity is desired
When ABS is too difficult to print due to warping
When moisture-resistant parts are required
When a balance of toughness, rigidity, and printability is needed
When producing consumer products with smooth surfaces
When cost-efficient engineering prototypes are essential
When printing medium-to-large parts with minimal deformation
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