Polyester | Chemical Resistant, Clear PET| Induflex

What is PET?

PET is a thermoplastic material of the polyester type. PET, which has the chemical designation polyethylenterephthalate, is also known as APET. It is an amorphous thermoplastic and is a transparent material with high light transmission.

PET is also available in a semi-crystalline thermoplastic form, PET-P, which you can read more about here.

PET is known under the brand name Axpet®.

Clear PET plastic sheets on a white background

Properties and advantages

APET is one of the transparent plastic types that we keep in stock. It is a plastic with good optical properties and a light transmission of approximately 89%. The material has a good service temperature range, extending from -40°C to 130°C. In addition, it has low moisture absorption, and is UV-resistant.

PET has good hardness and durability, and it is also a plastic with high strength and stiffness. This helps make this type of plastic capable of withstanding pressure and resisting impact without cracking or breaking. The plastic is therefore a good alternative to glass due to its excellent barrier properties.

Furthermore, APET is resistant to most acids and bases, including alcohols, dilute acids, and dilute alkalis. However, PET degrades when exposed to stronger chemicals. In addition, it is thermally stable and has relatively good dimensional stability.

Sheets of clear PET on a black background

Is the material approved for food-contact?

As standard, PET is approved as a food contact material (FCM).

Therefore, products made from this type of plastic can be used for packaging or machine parts in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

All our FCM-approved materials are fully traceable, ensuring safety for you and your customers while meeting all standards and requirements.

Is the material approved for food-contact?

As standard, PET is approved as a food contact material (FCM).

Therefore, products made from this type of plastic can be used for packaging or machine parts in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

All our FCM-approved materials are fully traceable, ensuring safety for you and your customers while meeting all standards and requirements.

Three thin sheets of clear PET plastic on a white background

What is PET used for?

The broad properties of PET allow it to be used for a wide range of products in various industries. The transparent plastic is used for:

Safety and machine guards
Covers
Facade panels
Mill blades
Roofs
Display glass and windows
Boxes and trays
Displays and signs

And much more.

To technical parts from Induflex in clear plastic

Machining of PET

When it comes to plastic processing of PET, sheets made from the material can be processed using various methods, such as CNC milling, laser cutting, or die-cutting on our cutting plotters.

Additionally, the material can also be heat bent.

Learn more about our competencies

Alternative
materials
to APET

As a rule of thumb, PET can be considered a cheaper alternative to materials such as PETG, PC (polycarbonate), or acrylic (PMMA).

PETG has the same chemical composition as PET but includes an addition of glycol, making it softer and more flexible than PET. PETG also offers better impact resistance and thermoforming properties.

Polycarbonate can be used if greater strength against impact and shock is required.

Acrylic is also an option if visual aesthetics are important, as it is more scratch-resistant, offers better light transmission, and is available in various colors.

Alternative
materials
to APET

As a rule of thumb, PET can be considered a cheaper alternative to materials such as PETG, PC (polycarbonate), or acrylic (PMMA).

PETG has the same chemical composition as PET but includes an addition of glycol, making it softer and more flexible than PET. PETG also offers better impact resistance and thermoforming properties.

Polycarbonate can be used if greater strength against impact and shock is required.

Acrylic is also an option if visual aesthetics are important, as it is more scratch-resistant, offers better light transmission, and is available in various colors.

Carved parts in black acrylic cut out on a cutting plotter

FAQs

At Induflex, we can achieve even very tight tolerances in plastic.

When you order a plastic part from us, it adheres to the Danish Standard ISO 2768-1 (medium) by default. We measure the tolerances at room temperature, around 21 °C.

Of course, we can agree on different tolerances if you wish.
Like many other thermoplastics, PET is notch-sensitive. Therefore, constructions should be designed without sharp internal corners.

If a design combines notch effects with internal stresses, it doesn't take much for the PET to crack during processing, transportation, or initial use.

Additionally, it is also hydrolysis-sensitive.
By sending us a STEP file or PDF with your drawings, we can quickly help determine if PET is the right choice for your project.

We can also identify the most suitable processing method for your components.

Industrial technician with one of our cobots.

Our competencies

With over 35 years of experience in plastic processing, Induflex is the flexible and specialized partner for custom plastic solutions in the industry.

CNC turning is one of Induflex' favourite processing methods.

Our standards

To ensure quality, safety, and compatibility, we at Induflex work according to professional protocols and use materials that comply with recognized standards.

The ultra-thin

Pet film Mular®

You can also have Mylar® sheets produced, which are transparent, glossy PET film with high tensile strength. The material is ultra-thin - actually less than half a millimetre - but retains its dimensions when exposed to moisture and heat.

Although Mylar® is very thin, it is also electrically insulating and is therefore well suited for use as insulation in electronic applications.

The ultra-thin

Pet film Mular®

You can also have Mylar® sheets produced, which are transparent, glossy PET film with high tensile strength. The material is ultra-thin - actually less than half a millimetre - but retains its dimensions when exposed to moisture and heat.

Although Mylar® is very thin, it is also electrically insulating and is therefore well suited for use as insulation in electronic applications.