Clear PETG (Polyester) Sheet: The Complete Guide

Clear PETG sheet offers glass-like clarity with extra toughness for everyday projects and professional builds. This guide covers what it is, how it behaves, where it works, and how to get the best results in the workshop.

What is PETG?

PETG is a thermoplastic polyester modified with glycol. The glycol helps prevent brittleness and whitening at bends, so the sheet forms well and stays clear. Many grades can be vacuum-formed without pre-drying if stored correctly.

PETG vs acrylic vs polycarbonate (quick feel)

Clarity: bright, transparent finish suited to glazing and display work.
Impact: tougher than acrylic, typically below solid polycarbonate, yet suitable for many guards and covers.
Forming: wide, forgiving forming window, ideal for thermoforming and hot line-bending.

Key benefits

High optical clarity and good light transmission.
Strong and forgiving during fabrication, resists cracking at bends.
Useful chemical resistance compared with many clear plastics.
Recyclable within PET streams, long service life.

Common applications

Point-of-sale displays, machine guards, protective screens, indoor glazing, shower surrounds, industrial trays, formed covers, and signage.

Processing & fabrication

PETG works well with standard workshop tools and techniques.

Cutting, drilling, routing

Use sharp carbide tooling and secure the sheet to reduce chatter and heat.
Choose drill bits for plastics, clear swarf often, and keep the cut cool with compressed air if possible.
Finish edges mechanically. Only flame-polish if your datasheet explicitly allows it.

Bending

Cold bends: fine for simple folds in thinner gauges.
Line-bending: for around 3 mm and above, heat both faces evenly and look for a consistent, satin softening before the fold.

Thermoforming

Typical forming window around 110–150 °C, varying by grade and part geometry.
Many PETG sheets do not require pre-drying under normal storage. Confirm for your specific sheet.

Printing & graphics

Suitable for screen and UV-cured inks. Clean with a soft cloth and remove dust before printing.

Bonding & fixing

Mechanical fixings and quality double-sided tapes are reliable.
Adhesives often used include polyurethane and two-part acrylic systems. Check compatibility and avoid harsh solvents.

Workshop safety notes

Wear eye protection and gloves. Extract chips and dust at source.
Allow for thermal expansion in fixings and design, as with other thermoplastics.

Quick do’s & don’ts

Do: use sharp tools, keep cuts cool, test-form offcuts first.

Don’t: rush bends on thick parts, assume one forming temperature suits every grade.

Safety & compliance

Food contact: available on specific PETG grades. Ask for the statement of compliance for the exact sheet.
Fire behaviour: many PETG sheets meet classifications such as EN 13501-1 B-s1,d0. Always verify the rating for your product and thickness.

Care & maintenance

Clean with lukewarm water and mild soap using a soft cloth or sponge.
Avoid dry wiping and aggressive solvents or incompatible cleaners.
Store flat, masked, dry, and out of direct sun before processing.

Indoor vs outdoor use (UV note)

Standard PETG is intended for indoor use. For exterior installations, specify a UV-protected PETG grade and follow the supplier’s handling guidance. Check weathering data and any warranty terms for the exact product.

Sizes, thicknesses & services at Plastic Solutions

Current product page lists 5 mm clear PETG in 2500 × 1250 mm.
Cut to size (free): we offer a free cut-to-size service. Add your cutting details in Cart → Order notes at checkout.
Complex shapes: for circles, angles, or detailed fabrication, we can connect you with our trusted partners for expert assistance.
Delivery: nationwide coverage across Ireland.

Buying checklist

Thickness picker: 3–4 mm: light POS covers, poster glazing, small guards. 5–6 mm: machine guards, larger panels, general glazing.

Thicker: heavy-duty covers or areas that take knocks.

Finish and clarity: plain, clear, or anti-glare if reflections are an issue.
Branding and print: confirm ink type and surface prep.
Fabrication method: cutting, bending, or thermoforming. Set temperatures, radii, and allowances accordingly.
Safety and compliance: obtain food-contact statements and fire-rating certificates if required.
Logistics: check stock in your size and gauge, plus delivery timing.

Get PETG for your next project

Need a clear impact-resistant sheet that forms cleanly and looks sharp? Check our PETG product page, or contact us if you have any questions about thickness, fabrication, or delivery.