PETG Tube — Clear Plastic Tube Sizes and Applications
PETG tube is clear, impact-resistant amorphous copolyester tube used for display fixtures, light diffuser cylinders, sight glasses, and prototype enclosures where optical clarity and toughness matter more than temperature resistance. PETG tube provides better impact resistance than acrylic tube, making it preferred for handled display components and equipment sight windows in ambient-temperature service.
At a glance:
- OD range: ~0.500" to 6.0" with various ID/wall combinations
- Optically clear — light transmission >90%
- Impact resistance 3–4× higher than acrylic tube
- FDA 21 CFR 177.1630 for food-contact tube applications
- Temperature limit: ~140°F (60°C)
- Confirm specific OD/ID availability with FedMat
Applications for PETG Tube
Display Fixtures
Clear PETG tube is used in retail display stands, product risers, and merchandise cylinders where a clear round enclosure is needed. The impact resistance means PETG tubes on store shelves resist cracking when knocked over — a common failure mode for acrylic display tubes.
Lighting Diffusers
PETG tube diffuses light while transmitting the majority of visible light (>90%), making it suitable for LED diffuser cylinders, task lighting guards, and display illumination. Frosted-surface PETG tube is available from some suppliers for even diffusion.
Sight Glasses and Flow Windows
In ambient-temperature process equipment and laboratory apparatus, PETG tube provides a clear window with better impact resistance than glass or acrylic. The tube bore acts as a sight glass for liquid level or flow visualization. FDA compliance makes PETG suitable for food-processing sight glasses in cold or ambient conditions.
Limit: PETG sight glasses are not suitable above 140°F (60°C). For hot-process sight glasses, use borosilicate glass, polysulfone, or PEEK.
Available Sizes
PETG tube is available in standard OD/ID combinations; stocking varies by supplier. Common sizes:
| OD (nominal) | Wall (typical) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0" | 0.125" | Stock |
| 1.5" | 0.125" | Stock |
| 2.0" | 0.125"–0.187" | Stock |
| 3.0" | 0.187" | To order |
| 4.0" | 0.250" | To order |
OD tolerance: ±0.015" to ±0.030". Wall tolerance: ±0.015". Confirm availability of specific sizes with FedMat before specifying.
Machining and Cutting PETG Tube
- Cutting to length: Table saw with fine-tooth blade; score-and-snap for thin wall
- Turning: Same parameters as PETG rod — 400–500 SFM, sharp positive-rake carbide
- Drilling: Standard parabolic flute bits; back up bore with mandrel for thin-wall pieces
For thin-wall PETG tube (wall < 0.100"), support the bore during turning operations to prevent collapse under chuck pressure. Use a mandrel or expanding arbor.
Inquire about PETG tube OD/ID availability
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Frequently asked questions — PETG FAQ