FDM 3D printing – Fused Deposition Modeling

3D printing has come a long way with fused deposition modelling taking the limelight with its astounding benefits. FDM technology, patented by Stratasys, is a fantastic technology that can create prototypes in a limited period. Also known as Fused Filament Fabrication or FFF 3D printing, the process is fast becoming an inevitable rapid prototyping service that has extensive uses in various industries in India. Find out why FDM printing is the best prototyping technology.

What is FDM printing?

Invented in the 1980s, FDM printing technology was widely appreciated for its intricate and detailed products used as testing parts for fit and form. Today, 3D printing is also extensively assisting in the creation of small parts and tools that had once taken a long time to manufacture. The technology comprises an extrusion nozzle that moves horizontally over a build platform to lay down spools of molten plastic, layer over layer. The molten thermoplastics ejected out from the printer nozzle builds the desired designs, and the supporting materials are removed to obtain the finished product. The most common raw materials used for the printing are Polylactic Acid. Polyetherimide(PEI) and Polyether Ketone(PEEK). 3D printed metal injection molds are yet another type of printed product that is made by sintering metal powder layer upon layer with lasers.

The FDM rapid prototyping service process

FDM 3D printing makes use of a digital design which is uploaded into the printer. The thermoplastics like PETG, ABS, PEI or PEEK are taken as the raw material which takes the form of spools that are fed from a coil and nozzle. These filaments are melted in the process and are deposited as layers on the build platform. It is essential to note that the whole process is program-controlled and the dimension instructions given to the computers decide the movements of the nozzle and the base.
The nozzle moves across the build platform, laying down plastic layers that cool and solidifies before the next layer follows. 3D printing is amazingly efficient and faster compared to other printing models. However, the printing time does depend upon the size of the desired object. Go through the section below to know about the various uses of an FDM 3D printing.

Also Read: Polyjet 3D Printing Guidelines

FDM 3-D printing uses

FDM 3-D printed products are used in a variety of industries in India that range from aviation, and automobile industries to various sectors in medical fields. Most of these industries make use of printed products for product development, their prototyping and in the manufacturing processes. FDM 3-D printing is extensively used for Rapid prototyping service. Since products demand rigorous testing before their release, a printed product would be an ideal prototype due to their fantastic endurance to heat, mechanical stress and chemicals.

Apart from the prototyping purposes, the intricately designed printed products can also be used to test the fit and form. The thermoplastics are also extensively used to create end-use parts as well. Hence, do not be surprised if you find these products in food and drug packaging. Find out the benefits of using FDM 3-D printed models, explained by the top plastic mould manufacturer in India.

Benefits of FDM 3D printing technology and rapid prototyping services

FDM 3D printed products are easy to handle
With 3D printing continually evolving, printed products would inevitably be used as the main parts in the future. The entire FDM process is a simplified technique that produces the final product in a matter of time. Hence, easy handling is a feature that makes FDM printing the best 3D printing of the lot.
Cost-efficient process
The entire expense that goes into the manufacturing process is comparatively low than the conventional methods. Since the final product is effectively put to use during prototype development, testing as well as in the final production, the FDM technology is affordable than the conventional printing techniques. Moreover, the raw materials used for this process is cheaper than other methods.
Choice of raw materials
FDM technology allows a wide range of materials as raw materials during the manufacturing process. The manufacturers can select their affordable material to create the end product.
Saves money
FDM printing technique is swift. The optimized production time, in turn, saves enormous money for manufacturers in India. Similarly, the post-processing is devoid of costly materials, which means that the product can be used as soon as it is created. Overall, FDM 3D printing is an efficient printing technique that delivers a ready-to-use product in limited time. Make sure that the printers used are effective and produce quality products.