Published on Wed Nov 17 2021 02:40:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Polymaker PolyLite PETG: A Deep Dive into a Versatile 3D Printing Filament

PolyLite PETG from Polymaker has emerged as a popular choice for 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals alike, thanks to its blend of strength, ease of use, and good print quality. This article provides a comprehensive overview of PolyLite PETG, covering its specifications, offering practical usage tips, and diving into its pros and cons based on key performance characteristics.

What is PolyLite PETG?

PolyLite PETG is a glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG) filament. Unlike standard PET, the addition of glycol to the compound makes PETG less brittle, clearer, and easier to print with. It combines the benefits of PLA (ease of printing) and ABS (strength and temperature resistance) making it a versatile material for a wide range of applications.

Detailed Specifications

• Material: Glycol-Modified Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETG)
• Diameter: Typically available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm (ensure compatibility with your printer)
• Diameter Tolerance: +/- 0.03mm (important for consistent extrusion)
• Density: 1.27 g/cm³ (affects filament weight and material usage calculations)
• Glass Transition Temperature (Tg): ~80°C (defines the temperature at which the material begins to soften)
• Recommended Printing Temperature: 230-250°C (crucial for optimal layer adhesion)
• Recommended Bed Temperature: 70-80°C (aids in initial adhesion and reduces warping)
• Recommended Printing Speed: 30-70 mm/s (influences print quality and printing time)
• Tensile Strength: 46 MPa (indicates resistance to pulling forces)
• Elongation at Break: 100% (measures how much the material can stretch before breaking)
• Impact Strength (Izod Notched): 67 J/m (measures resistance to impact)
• Spool Size: Typically 1kg

Usage Tips for Optimal Printing

Achieving the best results with PolyLite PETG requires careful attention to printer settings and environmental factors:

• Temperature Calibration is Key: Start with the recommended temperature range (230-250°C for the hot end and 70-80°C for the bed). Experiment with +/- 5°C increments to fine-tune for your specific printer and environment. Under-extrusion can occur if the temperature is too low, while stringing is common at overly high temperatures.
• Bed Adhesion: A heated bed is essential for PolyLite PETG. Using a clean and level bed is crucial. Common adhesion aids include:
  • Blue Painter’s Tape: A readily available and inexpensive option.
  • BuildTak/PEI Sheet: Provides excellent adhesion and release.
  • Glass Bed with Adhesive: A glass bed provides a very flat surface and when combined with an adhesive like glue stick or hairspray, provides excellent adhesion.
• Cooling: While PETG doesn’t require as much cooling as PLA, some fan usage (20-50%) can improve overhangs and bridges. However, excessive cooling can lead to layer delamination, so adjust carefully.
• Retraction Settings: Stringing can be a common issue with PETG. Experiment with retraction speed and distance to minimize it. Consider using retraction towers to dial in these settings.
• Print Speed: While pushing for faster print speeds is tempting, slowing down the initial layers can improve bed adhesion. A speed of 30-40mm/s for the first few layers is often recommended.
• Enclosure: Although not always necessary, an enclosure can help maintain a consistent temperature and reduce warping, especially for larger prints.
• Drying: PETG is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. If you experience issues like popping or hissing during printing, drying the filament is necessary. A filament dryer or oven (at a low temperature, typically around 50-60°C) can be used.
• Nozzle Maintenance: PETG can leave residue on the nozzle. Regular cleaning is important to prevent clogs. A brass wire brush is often sufficient.
• First Layer: Make sure the first layer is squished against the build plate for better adhesion this includes proper bed leveling.

Performance Assessment: PolyLite PETG Rated

Here’s an assessment of PolyLite PETG based on key performance characteristics, rated on a scale of 1 to 10:

• Print Quality: 8/10 - Can produce smooth surfaces and fine details with proper settings.
• Toughness: 9/10 - Significantly more durable than PLA, suitable for functional parts.
• Flexibility: 5/10 - More flexible than PLA, but not as flexible as TPU. Offers some resilience.
• Warping: 6/10 - Less prone to warping than ABS, but can still occur, especially with larger prints.
• Adhesion: 8/10 - Excellent bed adhesion with a heated bed and appropriate surface. Layer adhesion is also good.
• Moisture Sensitivity: 7/10 - More sensitive to moisture than PLA. Requires proper storage and drying if needed.
• Color Range: 9/10 - Available in a wide variety of colors, including transparent and translucent options.
• Temperature Range: 8/10 - Wider printing temperature range compared to PLA, offering greater flexibility.
• Odor & Fumes: 7/10 - Produces minimal odor compared to ABS, making it more pleasant to print with.
• Spool Winding Quality: 9/10 - Generally well-wound, minimizing the risk of tangles and print failures.

Average Score: 7.7/10

Conclusion

PolyLite PETG offers a compelling combination of strength, printability, and versatility. While it requires some fine-tuning of settings to achieve optimal results, its ease of use and robust performance make it an excellent choice for a wide range of 3D printing projects. From functional parts to aesthetically pleasing designs, PolyLite PETG can deliver reliable and high-quality results. Pay close attention to bed adhesion, temperature settings, and moisture control to unlock the full potential of this filament.

Written by Alex