Why PETG, and not PLA?
Most 3D printing services default to PLA because it's cheap, easy to print, and works well for decorative objects. We chose PETG because we print functional parts, and functional parts need a material that can handle real-world conditions.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is an engineering thermoplastic with significantly better mechanical and thermal properties than PLA:
- Heat resistance — PETG maintains its shape up to approximately 80°C. PLA begins deforming around 60°C, which means it can fail on a warm windowsill, inside a car in summer, or near electronics that run warm.
- Impact resistance — PETG is tougher and less brittle than PLA. It absorbs impacts rather than cracking, making it better suited to mechanical applications, brackets, clips and anything subject to vibration or load.
- Moisture resistance — PETG doesn't absorb moisture the way PLA does. PLA left in a damp environment can warp, swell and degrade. PETG holds its dimensions.
- Chemical resistance — PETG is resistant to many common chemicals and oils, making it suitable for automotive, workshop and light industrial applications.
- Layer adhesion — PETG bonds well between layers, producing stronger parts along the Z axis compared to PLA.
When is PETG the right choice?
PETG is particularly well suited for:
- Replacement parts for appliances, machinery and vehicles
- Brackets and mounts in enclosed or warm spaces
- Jigs and fixtures used repeatedly in a workshop
- Enclosures for electronics that generate heat
- Outdoor applications exposed to UV and temperature variation
- Anything subject to mechanical stress, vibration or impact
Read our full guide comparing the two: PETG vs PLA for functional parts.
Print quality options
We offer three layer height settings to balance quality and speed:
- Draft (0.30 mm) — Fastest option. Visible layer lines but structurally sound. Good for functional prototypes where aesthetics don't matter.
- Standard (0.20 mm) — Our most popular setting. Good surface finish, reasonable speed, excellent mechanical properties. Best value for most applications.
- Fine (0.12 mm) — Highest detail, finest surface texture. Takes longer but produces noticeably better results for visible surfaces or tight-tolerance parts.
Our printers
We print on Bambu Lab machines — some of the fastest and most consistent FDM printers available. They maintain tight tolerances, good temperature control and consistent extrusion. The result is reliable dimensional accuracy and consistent inter-layer bonding.
Fast printing doesn't mean corners cut — it means we don't have to wait as long to achieve the same quality.
Parts like this that we've already printed
Real parts from our own product range — designed, printed and shipped from our Mildenhall workshop.
★ 5.0 Amazon rating
VW Transporter T6 twin cup holder
Automotive fitting · Black PETG
★ 5.0 Amazon rating
Ninja Woodfire grill replacement knob
Replacement part · Black PETG
★ 5.0 Amazon rating
Stihl AP battery wall mount
Bracket & mount · Black PETG
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