What is PETG?
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is a 3D printing filament that combines the best of both worlds: the ease of printing of PLA and the mechanical strength of ABS. It is a plastic from the polyester family, similar to the PET used in food bottles, to which glycol is added to make it more flexible and less brittle.
At MV3D, we use PETG for parts requiring better heat or mechanical stress resistance, while maintaining a beautiful aesthetic finish.
Advantages of PETG
- Superior heat resistance: PETG can withstand temperatures up to 80°C without deforming, compared to 55-60°C for PLA — ideal for objects exposed to heat.
- Good impact resistance: more flexible than PLA, it absorbs impacts better without cracking.
- Excellent layer adhesion: PETG printed parts are stronger and less likely to delaminate.
- Chemical resistance: resistant to many household products, oils, and weak acids.
- Slightly translucent: allows for interesting visual effects for certain decorative creations.
- Recyclable: like PET, PETG is recyclable in many channels.
Disadvantages of PETG
- Scratch sensitivity: the surface is softer than PLA and scratches more easily.
- Stringing: PETG tends to form fine strings between parts of the print, requiring precise retraction settings.
- Delicate bed adhesion: too much adhesion can damage the print surface; a separator (hair spray, glue stick) is often needed.
- Moisture absorption: even more hygroscopic than PLA — dry storage is essential for optimal print quality.
- Slightly higher price: PETG is generally a little more expensive than PLA.
Working temperatures
| Parameter | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Print temperature (nozzle) | 230°C – 250°C |
| Bed temperature | 70°C – 90°C |
| Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) | 70°C – 80°C |
| Recommended ambient temperature | < 60°C in use |
PLA vs PETG: which to choose?
The choice between PLA and PETG primarily depends on the final use of your object:
- Choose PLA for indoor decorative objects, gifts, figurines — where aesthetics are paramount and heat is not a factor.
- Choose PETG for functional parts, objects exposed to heat (kitchen, bathroom), or requiring better mechanical resistance.
For what uses should you choose PETG?
PETG is the ideal choice for:
- Bathroom accessories (soap dishes, organizers)
- Heat-resistant kitchen parts
- Wall mounts and fixings
- Functional storage boxes
- Light mechanical parts
- Any object needing to withstand a humid or hot environment
Conclusion
PETG is the ideal filament when you need robustness, heat resistance, and durability without sacrificing print quality. At MV3D, we carefully select it for creations that must combine performance and aesthetics over the long term. Each piece is printed on demand, to avoid waste and ensure responsible manufacturing.
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