Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is the most commonly used plastic in the world. You can find the polymer almost everywhere you look, from your water bottle to clothing fibers, even in your food containers. PET is also used in thermoforming processes and can be combined with glass fiber to create engineering resins. Basically, thousands of consumer products, foods, and beverages are delivered and packaged within this material. Unfortunately, it‘s even floating in our oceans.
On the 3D printing side of things, there’s PETG, which is is a modified version of PET. The ‘G’ stands for “glycol-modified”, which is added to the material composition during polymerization. The result is a filament that is clearer, less brittle, and easier to use than its base form of PET. The molecular structure is irregular; the resin is clear and amorphous with a glass transition temperature of 88 C (190 F). If you’re into chemistry, this material is known as Polyethylene Terephthalateco-1, 4-cylclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate.
PETG benefits compared to PET
If you were to shop for 3D printing filament, you’d likely notice way more PETG filament on the market than PET. There are a number of benefits that this variant offers over the base material, especially when it comes to 3D printing. But first, here are the general reasons why it is more advantageous than PET: It is more durable. Overheating regular PET makes it hazy and brittle, but not with PETG filament. The added glycol prevents the material from crystallizing and becoming breakable. It is highly impact-resistant. Unlike PET, it is RF sealable. It can be sterilized.
Benefits of PETG filament for FFF/FDM 3D printing
PETG filament has the reputation of combining the functionality of ABS (stronger, temperature resistant, more durable) and reliability of PLA (easy to print) in one material. The layer adhesion is usually excellent. Reduced potential of warping or shrinking of your prints. Also, you can recycle the material, along with prints and misprints.
When Should PETG Filament Be Used?
It is a good all-around material but truly stands out from many other filaments due to its flexibility, strength, and temperature and impact resistance. This makes it an ideal 3D printer filament to use for objects which might experience sustained or sudden stress, like mechanical parts, 3D printer parts, and protective components. Additionally, this filament is likely the perfect option for objects that will encounter food or drink.
Where can I buy good quality PETG Filament at an affordable price?
If you are in Europe. We are authorized PrimaFilaments Resellers, so you can buy good quality PETG filament 1.75mm or 2.85mm at our online store.
Go to the links below! You can choose among different colours!