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3D printing with Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)
What is FDM 3D printing?
FDM 3D printing creates plastic parts that are robust and accurate, even when the part geometry is complex. A thermoplastic is heated and extruded through a nozzle, the movement of which is computer-controlled to place the material where it is needed. FDM is a lower-cost technology than SLA and SLS, but not as quick.
What is the FDM build process?
FDM materials are supplied as filaments wound on reels, so they are easy to handle. The FDM machine draws the filament off the reel, heats it to a semi-molten state and extrudes it through a fine nozzle. The extruded plastic fuses to the material adjacent to and beneath it, cooling as it does so. When the layer is complete, the nozzle moves upwards to start building the next layer. If there are overhangs or other features that could distort, appropriate support structures are also built.
When the FDM printed part is complete, supporting structures are removed by hand and the part is washed in cleaning solution. Any additional finishes are applied afterwards.
When is FDM used for 3D printing parts?
FDM builds durable prototype parts for concept models, visual models and functional prototypes. FDM parts are also sufficiently robust to be used for jigs, fixtures, vacuum forming tooling and production parts.
Typically, FDM produces parts that will ultimately be injection moulded from engineering plastics. Our customers request FDM when they are developing products such as medical devices, electronic components and precision instruments.
The comparatively low cost per part makes FDM feasible for producing small batches of prototype parts for functional testing.
FDM prototyping capabilities
We use Stratasys F170 3D Printers, which are far superior to low-cost ‘hobby’ machines. We 3D print in a range of resolutions and layer thicknesses to suit different requirements, from 0.127 mm to 0.330 mm, so we can quickly produce cost-effective visual parts as well as high-accuracy functional parts. Maximum build size is 254 x 254 x 254 mm.
Our FDM machines operate with ABS-M30 production-grade thermoplastic.
See our FDM technology and ABS-M30 material data sheets for more information.
Characteristics of FDM 3D printed parts
Using our Stratasys F170 3D Printer and ABS-M30 material, parts have good accuracy, strength and rigidity, as well as long-term dimensional stability, UV stability, thermal resistance and water resistance. As printed, the parts may have a ridged surface but they can be readily sanded, primed and painted for a better aesthetic.
ABS-M30 is up to 70% stronger than standard ABS, with greater tensile, impact and flexural strength. Parts are also smoother, have better feature detail, and can be printed in a maximum of six colours.
Furthermore, layer-to-layer bonds are significantly stronger than for standard ABS, resulting in better isotropy and more durable parts.
Although FDM parts are slightly porous, surfaces can be sealed by lacquering.
Finishing options for FDM 3D printed parts
After building, FDM parts often require minimal finishing beyond removal of the support structures and witness marks, and washing in a cleaning solution. Lacquering to seal the surfaces is a popular option, while sanding, priming and painting can also be specified if required. In addition, a blackout/EMI/RFI coating can be applied to internal surfaces.
We also offer assembly operations such as installing threaded inserts.
Visit our Finishing options page for more detail.
Talk to us
If you require FDM 3D printed prototype parts, talk to us about your project on 01763 249760 or complete the enquiry form below to request a quote.
Model Making & RP Workshop team
Our model making and RP workshop team deliver high-quality 3D printed and vacuum cast prototype parts. We offer next day dispatch on SLS, SLA, FDM, Polyjet and DLP. Request a quote for your next prototype project.
Tim Rowell
Quality & Operations Manager
Gemma Zouher-Lewis
Senior RP Workshop Technician - Team Leader
Jordan Cooney
RP Technician
Alex Barnett
RP Technician
Nick Crown
RP Technician
Chris Johnson
RP Technician
Mark Avory
RP Technician
Jan Mlynarcik
3D Print CAD Technician
Emily West
Workshop administrator
Pete Robinson
3D Print Manager
Wayne Titmus
RP Technician
Ryan Brown
Workshop Technician