In the packaging industry, PET film and polyester film are frequently mentioned. However, many buyers—and even product developers—often find themselves confused. Are they the same material? What are their differences? This article from BestY Pack explains the differences between PET film and polyester film. It will help you understand these two packaging materials better!
What is PET Film?
PET film, also known as polyethylene terephthalate, exhibits outstanding mechanical properties. It also offers superior chemical resistance and thermal stability. Applications span electronic packaging and industrial packaging scenarios.
Manufacturing Process:
- Under the action of a catalyst, terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol undergo esterification to form an ester product.
- At high temperatures (around 285°C) and under vacuum, strong metal catalysts help the esterification product turn into a high-molecular-weight polymer. This happens through polymerization. PET film is manufactured from this polymer.
What is Polyester Film?
Polyester film is a general term. It can encompass other polyester compounds, such as PET and PBT. Polyester film is the name for polymers made from various esterification products. Therefore, not all polyester films are PET films. However, all PET films are polyester films.
What are the differences between PET film and polyester film?
| Feature | PET Film (PET Film) | Polyester Film |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Polyethylene Terephthalate | PEN Film: Polyethylene Naphthalate |
| Properties | – High transparency – Good strength and durability – Excellent chemical resistance – Good flexibility | – Higher heat resistance than PET – Stronger chemical resistance than PET |
| Advantages | – High optical clarity, suitable for imaging technology – Strong and durable, resistant to tearing and puncturing – Suitable for protective packaging – Usable in flexible electronics and displays | – Suitable for applications requiring higher temperature stability – Can be used in specialized fields like electrical and automotive industries |
| Eco-Friendly | Recyclable | Recyclable |
Applications of PET film vs. polyester film
PET film and polyester film perform excellently. They are used in many industries.
Applications of PET film:
- Electronics: FPC (Flexible Printed Circuits), insulation materials, touch screens, etc.
- Packaging: Food and beverage packaging, consumer goods packaging, cosmetic packaging.
- Industrial settings: release paper, magnetic tape.
- Film imaging and printing: Photographic film, X-ray film, inkjet printing, etc.
Applications of Polyester Film:
- PBT Film: Automotive components, power tool housings, etc.
- PEN Film: Motor insulation, flexible displays, high-performance capacitors, etc.
- PETG Film: Food and beverage packaging, beverage bottles, medical device packaging, retail displays, and signage.
How to Choose the Right Film for Your Needs ?
When selecting polyester film, consider both the application scenario and packaging requirements.
For high toughness combined with adequate transparency, choose PETG.
For processing in higher-temperature environments, opt for PEN.
For superior mechanical properties and stress resistance, select PBT or PEN.
For better cost-effectiveness, choose PET film.
For enhanced chemical resistance and performance in chemical environments, select PBT.
choose BestY Pack
BestY Pack specializes in the research, development, and production of polyester film. Our polyester film offers outstanding performance and excellent protective properties. It delivers exceptional results across diverse applications. BestY Pack focuses on developing high-performance, cost-effective polyester film. For more information about polyester film, please get in touch with BestY Pack!
FAQ
What is the difference between PET and polyester?
PET film and polyester are not entirely the same. PET film refers to a specific type, while polyester film is a general category. Both are made from the polymerization of polyester compounds. PET film is also known as polyethylene terephthalate. In everyday usage, polyester most likely refers to PET material.
Which is more suitable for high-temperature applications?
PEN film offers superior heat resistance compared to PET.
It performs exceptionally well in continuous high-temperature environments. PEN film has a temperature index of about 165°C for mechanical use and 185°C for electrical use. It meets the standards for electrical insulation applications. Its stiffness is 26% higher than that of PET.
PET film, however, has a continuous service temperature of approximately 152°C (mechanical).
What does PET film mean?
PET film refers to a plastic packaging material made from polyethylene terephthalate. It offers excellent mechanical properties and high cost-effectiveness. Used in electronics, packaging, printing, and film imaging, it is a popular and versatile solution.
Hello, customers
My name is Jack Yu. I am the Business Manager at BestY Pack Plastic Products. My areas of expertise include film packaging, cold chain transportation packaging, and shrink products. Additionally, our factory manufactures protective gloves, and I can provide you with professional solutions to help you increase your market share and enhance consumer trust.
Email: ﾠjackyu@bestypack.com
Tel: +86 18368319351