PETG Filament

What Is PETG Filament?

PETG is one of the most popular 3D printing materials for functional parts. It combines the ease of printing of PLA with the strength and heat resistance closer to ABS, making it an ideal all-rounder for prototypes, mechanical components, and end-use products.

If we had a simple axis going from "low durability but easy to print" (PLA) on the left to "high durability but challenging to print" (ABS) on the right, PETG would be exactly in the middle. Printing temperature, heat resistance, and strength are all approximately the average of PLA and ABS.

Why Choose PETG Over PLA and ABS?

PETG vs PLA: PETG is stronger, more flexible, and more heat-resistant than PLA. While PLA is easier to print and better for decorative models, PETG excels for functional parts that need to withstand stress, impact, or outdoor conditions. PETG's glass transition temperature is around 80–85℃ compared to PLA's 60℃, making it suitable for higher-temperature applications.

PETG vs ABS: PETG prints more easily than ABS with minimal warping and no noxious fumes. Unlike ABS, PETG doesn't require an enclosed printer or heated chamber, and it has better layer adhesion out of the box. For most users, PETG delivers 90% of ABS's mechanical performance with 50% less printing frustration.

PETG Printing Temperature & Settings

Polymaker PETG filaments print reliably across a wide range of 3D printers. Recommended settings:

Nozzle temperature: 230–250℃ (varies by grade; Polymaker™ PETG optimized for 240–250℃)
Bed temperature: 70–90℃ (PEI, glass, or textured sheets work well)
Print speed: 40–100 mm/s (Polymaker™ PETG supports up to 300 mm/s for high-flow printing)
Part cooling fan: 20–60% (lower than PLA to improve layer adhesion)
Drying: 50℃ for 4–6 hours if filament has absorbed moisture

Most PETG prints well on any printer setup. The exceptions are carbon fiber-reinforced grades like Fiberon™ PET-CF17 and PETG-rCF8, which require a hardened steel nozzle due to abrasiveness.

The Polymaker PETG Range

Polymaker offers multiple PETG formulations optimized for different applications:

Polymaker™ PETG: New high-flow, low-odor formula engineered for faster printing (up to 300 mm/s) and superior layer adhesion. Best for general-purpose functional parts and high-speed production.

PolyMax™ PETG: Nano-reinforced PETG with enhanced fracture toughness and impact resistance. Offers the best mechanical properties of any regular PETG, ideal for demanding applications like robotics, brackets, and mechanical assemblies.

Fiberon™ PET-CF17: 17% carbon fiber-reinforced PETG for maximum stiffness and strength. Requires hardened nozzle. Best for structural components, automotive parts, and high-load applications.

Fiberon™ PETG-rCF8: 8% recycled carbon fiber-reinforced PETG balancing strength and sustainability. Good for lightweight structural parts with reduced environmental impact.

Fiberon™ PETG-ESD: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) safe PETG for electronics manufacturing. Protects sensitive components from static damage. Ideal for jigs, fixtures, and enclosures in electronics assembly.

Not sure which PETG to choose? For most users, Polymaker™ PETG is the best all-rounder. Need maximum strength? Go with PolyMax™ PETG. Printing structural parts? Try Fiberon™ PET-CF17.

PETG Applications

PETG filament is widely used for:

Functional prototypes and end-use parts
Mechanical components, brackets, and enclosures
Outdoor applications (UV and weather resistant)
Food packaging and medical device components (certain grades)
Smartphone cases, protective gear, and consumer products
ESD-safe jigs and fixtures for electronics

All Polymaker PETG spools are redesigned with improved edges to work seamlessly with AMS (Automatic Material System) on Bambu Lab and other multi-material printers.

PETG Filament FAQ

What is PETG filament used for?

PETG is ideal for functional prototypes, mechanical parts, brackets, enclosures, and end-use products that require strength, durability, and moderate heat resistance. It's commonly used for outdoor applications, consumer products, and industrial components.

Is PETG filament food safe?

Certain PETG grades are food-safe and used in food packaging and medical devices. However, always check the specific product's technical data sheet. Polymaker PETG is generally considered safe for incidental food contact, but not recommended for prolonged or hot food applications.

What is the difference between PET and PETG?

PET and PETG differ in chemical structure and properties. PETG is glycol-modified PET, which makes it more flexible, easier to print, and better suited for 3D printing. PET is more rigid and durable but harder to print. PETG is the preferred choice for additive manufacturing.

Does PETG filament need to be dried?

Yes, PETG absorbs moisture from the air, which can cause stringing, poor surface quality, and reduced mechanical properties. Dry PETG at 50℃ for 4–6 hours before printing if the filament has been exposed to humidity. Store in a dry box or sealed container with desiccant.

What temperature should I print PETG at?

Polymaker PETG prints best at 230–250℃ nozzle temperature, with bed temperatures of 70–90℃. Polymaker™ PETG is optimized for higher speeds (up to 300 mm/s) at similar temperatures. Always refer to the specific product's technical data sheet for exact settings.

What is the difference between PolyMax PETG and Polymaker PETG?

PolyMax™ PETG offers superior mechanical properties with nano-reinforcement for enhanced impact resistance and fracture toughness. Polymaker™ PETG is optimized for high-speed printing (up to 300 mm/s) with excellent layer adhesion. Choose PolyMax for strength, Polymaker for speed.

Will Polymaker spools work in AMS?

Yes! Polymaker has redesigned the edges of all spools so they spin smoothly in AMS (Automatic Material System) on Bambu Lab printers and other multi-material systems.

Do I need a hardened nozzle for PETG?

Standard PETG grades (Polymaker™ PETG, PolyMax™ PETG) print fine with brass nozzles. However, carbon fiber-reinforced grades like Fiberon™ PET-CF17 and PETG-rCF8 require a hardened steel nozzle due to abrasiveness.