The basics of 3D printing: PETG filament

What is PETG Filament?

PETG stands for Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol. It is a robust and flexible material ideal for 3D printing. It is less brittle than PLA and offers better dimensional stability than ABS, making it a popular choice for a variety of 3D printing applications.

Features of PETG Filament

PETG filament combines the best properties of PLA and ABS filament. It has high durability, good flexibility and is relatively easy to print. It is resistant to water and UV radiation, and is also recyclable, which is an added advantage for environmentally conscious users.

Applications of PETG Filament

Due to its unique properties, PETG filament is ideal for a wide range of applications. It can be used for printing mechanical parts, prototypes, household items, and more.

How to Print with PETG Filament?

PETG filament is relatively easy to print, but there are a few tips to keep in mind.

Here are some general print settings for PETG filament:

1. Print temperature: The recommended print temperature for PETG is usually between 230°C and 250°C. However, it can vary depending on the brand and composition of the filament. Usually start with a temperature around 240°C and adjust based on the results.
2. Print bed temperature: Although PETG usually adheres better than PLA, it is helpful to use a heated print bed. A bed temperature of about 70°C to 80°C can improve adhesion.
3. Print speed: The optimum print speed for PETG is usually between 40 and 60 mm/s. This can vary depending on your 3D printer and the complexity of the model.
4. Layer thickness: A layer thickness of 0.2 mm is commonly used for PETG prints. You can vary depending on the desired resolution and print speed.
5. Fill pattern: Usually use a rectangular or honeycomb fill pattern with 20% to 30% fill. Adjust the fill based on the strength requirements of your print.
6. Cooling: PETG is more sensitive to overcooling than PLA, so reduce the cooling rate compared to PLA. A cooling rate of 30% to 50% may be appropriate to avoid warping and other problems.
7. Retraction: Use retraction settings to prevent stringing. A retraction distance of 1 to 2 mm and a speed of 40 to 60 mm/s can work well.
8. Adhesion: PETG usually has good adhesion to a heated printbed with kapton tape, PEI surface or BuildTak. You can also use a layer of printbed adhesive.
9. Printer settings: Adjust settings to your specific 3D printer model and software.
10. Dry storage: It is important to keep PETG filament dry as it is prone to moisture absorption. Store it in an airtight container with desiccant to avoid quality problems.

As always, these settings are general guidelines, and you may need to make adjustments based on your specific printer and filament. It is wise to make small test prints to determine optimal settings before starting larger projects.