Rapid Prototyping: FDM

Highlights of Fused Deposition Modeling

•	Standard engineering thermoplastics, such as ABS, can be used to produce structurally functional models.
•	Two build materials can be used, and latticework interiors are an option.
•	Parts up to 600 × 600 × 500 mm (24 × 24 × 20 inches) can be produced.
•	Filament of heated thermoplastic polymer is squeezed out like toothpaste from a tube.
•	Thermoplastic is cooled rapidly since the platform is maintained at a lower temperature.
•	Milling step not included and layer deposition is sometimes non-uniform so "plane" can become skewed.
•	Not as prevalent as SLA and SLS^®, but gaining ground because of the desirable material properties.

Fused Deposition Modeling

Stratasys of Eden Prairie, MN makes Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) machines. The FDM process was developed by Scott Crump in 1988. The fundamental process involves heating a filament of thermoplastic polymer and squeezing it out like toothpaste from a tube to form the RP layers. The machines range from fast concept modelers to slower, high-precision machines. The materials include polyester, ABS, elastomers, and investment casting wax. The overall arrangement is illustrated below:

Glossary

Processes » Rapid_prototyping » Rapid Prototyping

FREE Publications

Selecting the Right 3D Printer

Discover how to choose the right 3D printer for your needs and the key performance attributes to consider.

STEM Career Outlook

Wages, employment opportunities, and growth projections for STEM jobs.

Metal 3D Printing Design Guide

Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) 3D printing for parts with reduced cost and little waste.

CNC Machining Design Guide

Optimize your designs, reduce machining time, and lower your costs.

more publications


Process Home
	Rapid Prototyping
	Introduction
	Stereolithography
	Selective Laser Sintering
	Laminated Object Manufacturing
	Fused Deposition
	Solid Ground Curing
	Ink Jet
	Rapid Tooling
	Resources
	Bibliography