FDM · Filaments · Standard
PET filament
The material of water bottles; rigid, chemical resistant and familiar from food packaging.
What is PET?
PET is the polyester we know from beverage bottles and food packaging. It is the glycol-free, stiffer and crystallizable form of PETG: slightly harder and more heat resistant than PETG, but more demanding to print. It suits transparent or translucent functional parts that resist water and many chemicals.
- Chemical resistant
- Transparent
- Food-contact grades available
Technical data
Typical values compiled from common manufacturer datasheets; they vary by brand and grade.
| Density | 1.33 – 1.38 g/cm³ |
|---|---|
| Tensile strength | 50 – 60 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 4 – 10% |
| Tensile modulus | 2.0 – 2.5 GPa |
| Glass transition temperature (Tg) | ≈ 75 – 80 °C |
Print settings
Recommended starting ranges; fine-tuning is needed for each machine.
| Nozzle temperature | 240 – 270 °C |
|---|---|
| Bed temperature | 70 – 90 °C |
| Drying | 4 – 6 h at 65 °C |
Design guidelines for PET
General guidelines for FDM technology. All design guidelines
- Minimum wall thickness0.8 mm
- Smallest detail0.4 mm (nozzle diameter)
- Clearance for moving parts0.3 – 0.6 mm
- Text and logosEmbossed ≥ 0.6 mm, engraved ≥ 0.8 mm
- Minimum hole diameterØ 2 mm
- Unsupported overhang angle≥ 45° from horizontal; flatter surfaces need support
Applications
- Transparent enclosures and covers
- Parts in contact with liquids and chemicals
- Packaging prototypes
Advantages
- Rigid and dimensionally stable
- Resistant to water and chemicals
- Transparent option
Limitations
- More demanding to print than PETG
- Absorbs moisture; must be dried
Comparison
PET and alternatives
| Property | PET | PETG | PLA | PC |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density | 1.35 g/cm³ | 1.27 g/cm³ | 1.23 g/cm³ | 1.12 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength | 55 MPa | 52 MPa | 63 MPa | 55 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 6 % | 83 % | 20 % | 150 % |
| Modulus (stiffness) | 2.2 GPa | 1.07 GPa | 1.97 GPa | 1.07 GPa |
| Heat deflection (0.45 MPa) | 70 °C | 64 °C | 53 °C | 80 °C |
Values are averages of typical ranges; see each material page for details.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions about PET
What is PET?
PET is the polyester we know from beverage bottles and food packaging. It is the glycol-free, stiffer and crystallizable form of PETG: slightly harder and more heat resistant than PETG, but more demanding to print. It suits transparent or translucent functional parts that resist water and many chemicals.
Is PET heat resistant?
The heat deflection temperature (0.45 MPa) of PET is about 70 °C. This is moderate; enough for everyday use and warm environments.
Can PET be used outdoors?
It usually performs well in short and medium-term outdoor use; for parts exposed to direct sunlight for long periods, UV-resistant materials such as ASA are a better fit.
Which parts are made with PET?
PET is typically used in applications such as transparent enclosures and covers, parts in contact with liquids and chemicals, packaging prototypes.
Which material can be used instead of PET?
Depending on the application, PETG, PLA, PC can be alternatives. You can see the differences in the comparison tables on the material pages.
Does TAİ Robotik produce with PET?
For PET, send us your part's dimensions, quantity and operating conditions; we will determine the best production route and, if needed, an equivalent alternative together.
Let's choose the right material together
Tell us your needs for this material or an alternative we can produce.