PETG filament, sometimes also known as PET-G filament, has quickly become one of the most popular filaments for today's makers. It is used by professionals and hobbyists alike who want to go a step further than printing with PLA filament, or who make 3D prints for which PLA filament is not the most suitable. It gives off no unpleasant odours and has excellent layer adhesion.

Recently, alongside PETG filament from Fill 3D and Fiberlogy, we have also added PCTG filament from Fiberlogy to our range in several colours. Both transparent and solid colours. To date PCTG filament is not yet as established as PETG, and yet PCTG has superior properties and qualities compared with the better-known PETG. It is only 1 letter different in the abbreviation, but PCTG offers, among other things, increased toughness, impact strength and clarity. This makes this filament a more than excellent replacement for PETG or even ABS filament, for placing even higher demands on your prints.

PETG filament, a proven and reliable material

PET, which stands for PolyEthylene Terephthalate, is a durable and user-friendly material often used to produce things like bottles, signage and other durable plastic products. It is the most used and best-known plastic in the world. The so-called glycol modifier, the G in PETG, which is added to polyethylene terephthalate during the production of PETG, helps improve the durability and the ease of printing of the filament.

Because it is resistant to chemicals, PETG can be widely used to print all sorts of things without safety being compromised. It is considered food-safe, as they say, and can therefore be used for parts that come into contact with food and drink. Its rigidity makes PETG a filament that works well for any 3D print that has to keep its shape when a lot of force or pressure is applied. Common applications of PETG filament occur in electronics or robotics, but this material is no stranger to the medical world either. Because of its molecular structure, PETG can also be recycled easily — a welcome bonus.

PCTG filament: even stronger, tougher and with higher clarity

As mentioned, the family of terephthalate polyesters therefore also includes a lesser-known copolyester that is likewise modified with glycol: PCTG. PCTG is comparable to PETG in application and molecular structure. However, PCTG has higher chemical resistance, withstands higher temperatures and has increased durability and impact strength. These properties make PCTG filament easier to work with, while at the same time offering the same safety and recyclability as PETG filament.

Fiberlogy PCTG filament

Fiberlogy PCTG filament is characterised by a much higher impact strength compared with similar materials (e.g. PETG). It achieves results of 90 kJ/m2 (PET-G: 5-8 kJ/m2) in the Izod test (notched sample). PCTG also withstands higher temperatures (up to 76°C). From an aesthetic point of view, PCTG filament offers a more matte to glossy finish, depending on the printing temperature. Fiberlogy PCTG filament is recyclable and approved for contact with food (in the Pure Transparent version). The material is also BPA-free.

Buying PETG filament and PCTG filament at 3D Fanshop

Although PETG filament remains as popular as ever among makers, you could therefore consider producing comparable prints with Fiberlogy PCTG filament. PCTG filament is thus a very suitable material for makers looking for a strong, easy-to-print and affordable filament. The choice of colours is large, and whether you go for Fiberlogy Easy PETG filament (with improved printing properties), Fill 3D PETG filament or Fiberlogy PCTG filament, you can be confident that, thanks to the high production standards, you are getting a fantastic filament with excellent tolerances and roundness. 

PETG and PCTG filament also available as a refill

For both PETG and PCTG, besides the spools on Fiberlogy's characteristic white spool, we also have various colours and versions available as a refill spool. This refill can be used on the Masterspool.

Time to switch that 3D printer on! Your project is sure to succeed!