PET & PETG Laser Cutting & CNC Routing – Custom Parts

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and its variant PETG (glycol-modified PET) are both thermoplastic polymers known for their strength, durability, and versatility. The manufacturing process of PET involves polymerizing terephthalic acid with ethylene glycol to form long polymer chains. These chains are then melted and extruded into sheets, films, or fibers, depending on the intended application. PETG, a modified version of PET, is produced by adding glycol to the polymerization process, which enhances its impact resistance and clarity. Both PET and PETG are commonly used in packaging, particularly for bottles, containers, and films. PET is also used in textiles, such as clothing and carpets, and in industrial applications like films for electronics, while PETG is favored in applications requiring high clarity and toughness, such as in the production of clear plastic parts for medical devices, signage, and display products.

The advantages of PET/PETG include their excellent chemical resistance, strength, and ability to maintain clarity even after long periods of exposure to UV light. PET is lightweight, recyclable, and offers good moisture and gas barrier properties, making it ideal for packaging applications, especially for beverages and food products. PETG, with its enhanced impact resistance and ease of fabrication, is often used in situations where durability and optical clarity are important. However, PET and PETG also have some disadvantages. PET can become brittle under extreme temperatures, and while it is recyclable, it can be difficult to recycle in practice due to contamination. PETG, although tougher and more flexible than PET, is more expensive and less resistant to high heat, limiting its use in certain applications where temperature stability is critical. Despite these drawbacks, both materials are widely used due to their performance, versatility, and recyclability in various industries.