3D PRINTING PROCESS
FDM 3D Printing Process
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) or Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is ideally suited for early prototypes, voluminous parts and small batches in the non-visible range. The process offers the greatest variety of materials and the largest parts are possible.
- Max. Building space: 1.000 x 500 x 500 mm
- Accuracy: +- 0.5 % (min. +- 0.3 mm)
- Production time: from 1 working day
- Mechanical/Plant Engineering
- Automotive
- Consumer Goods
FDM 3D printing applications
Design models
FDM printing is a simple, fast and inexpensive way of converting a design previously modeled on the PC into a physical model.
Prototypes
Use this technology to test general functionality and the fit of your parts.
Large formats
The largest parts in the field of additive manufacturing can be implemented with the technology and at a low price.
Small batches
Small batches from the FDM printer are often underestimated. This technology often offers the most economical alternative for many parts.
FDM working principle
How does the FDM technology work?
Fused Deposition Modeling is a 3D printing process in which a workpiece is built up layer by layer from molten plastic or metal. Also known by the abbreviation FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication), it is the most widely used 3D printing process.The technology was developed in the 1980s by Scott Crump, who later founded Stratasys with his wife. Crump got the idea for the process when he wanted to use a hot glue gun to make a toy for his daughter. By extruding (ejecting) the hot glue and laying these ejected webs of material on top of one another, he was able to create three-dimensional parts to the delight of his daughter. The so-called melt layering in 3D printers is still based on this simple basic principle, except that plastic is used instead of the adhesive and the gun is guided over axes. Manageable system prices have meant that 3D printers are now finding their way into many private households.
A plastic filament wound on spools forms the basis of the FDM process. It is fed via a feed system to the “pistol”, the so-called hotend in technical jargon, in which it is then melted by the high temperatures. Due to the sustained advance of the material, the now liquid or viscous plastic is pressed through the nozzle. During the extrusion, the complete printing unit moves over two axes (x and y) within the horizontal plane, whereby individual thin plastic webs are deposited next to each other. The third direction of movement is taken over by the building platform. This can be lowered in very small steps in the vertical direction (z-axis). In this way, the finished FDM part is created layer by layer from a 3D model that has previously been divided into layers by a slicing program.
FDM materials
The FDM process offers the largest selection of our technologies here. Depending on the application, you can choose between flexible, heat-resistant, chemically resistant, UV-stable and of course mechanically strong plastics.
ABS
ABS is the most widely used plastic in the world. It is characterized by a high level of heat resistance and very good post-processing options.
PLA
The PLA, made from renewable raw materials, is characterized by its high tensile strength. It is particularly suitable for prototypes and bulky parts.
PETG
This plastic combines the best properties of ABS and PLA. It is tougher than ABS, more heat-resistant than PLA, UV-stable and resistant to many chemicals.
ASA
ASA is the ABS for outdoors. The property profile is similar, but ASA has a higher heat resistance and is more resistant to UV radiation.
PC
Polycarbonate (PC) is an extremely tough material. It has a high temperature resistance, which is e.g. ideal for technical housings.
PA6 CF
The carbon fiber-reinforced PA6/66 is highly resistant to external influences and particularly good for robust parts that have to meet higher mech. requirements.
TPU D58
With an elongation of up to 480%, high chemical resistance and heat resistance up to 140°C, the material is suitable for industrial applications.
GreenTEC
This material represents a sustainable alternative for technical applications. It is both food safe and compostable.
ESD ABS
ESD ABS is ideal for critical applications that require a high level of protection against electrostatic discharge, such as electrical enclosures or packaging.
Your desired material is not there?
No problem! We are open to your wishes. We would be happy to check for you whether your material preference can be reliably processed on our printers. Simply contact us via our contact form. We are looking forward to it!
Contact us - we are open for new projects!
- +49 (0)9401 5399470
- info@3dbavaria.com