Overview
PETG is my preferred material when I need strength, durability, and temperature resistance. It handles mechanical stress better than PLA and is ideal for items that get frequent use or live in warmer environments. These notes are based on repeatable results on the Bambu Lab A1.
When I use PETG
- Functional brackets and parts that take load.
- Outdoor items in mild weather.
- Items exposed to sunlight or higher temperatures.
- Handles, organisers, tools, and wear-resistant pieces.
PETG is a step up in durability from PLA and is reliable on the A1 with only small adjustments.
Recommended settings
| Nozzle temperature | 235 to 250°C |
| Bed temperature | 75 to 85°C |
| Layer height | 0.20 or 0.24 mm |
| Cooling | Fan 40 to 60 percent |
| Infill | 20 to 35 percent |
| Walls | 3 for strength |
PETG sticks aggressively to textured plates. Use glue stick if you want easier removal.
Tips for best results
- Reduce cooling to avoid brittle layers.
- Slow down bridges to prevent curling.
- Use a small Z-hop to avoid dragging and stringing.
- Store PETG dry as it absorbs moisture quickly.
Limitations
- More stringing than PLA if cooling is too high.
- Can fuse to textured plates without glue.
- Bridging is weaker than PLA.
