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FDM Printing Service

FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) printers are probably the most widely recognised ones. They use plastic filament that is melted in a nozzle and is then deposited in the build volume as the nozzle moves around.

FDM is also sometimes referred to as FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication). Although technically the two are not identical technologies the terms are largely used interchangeably. However, unless you are trying to push your part material properties to the absolute limit, the differences are not really relevant.

There is wide variety of materials available for FDM/FFF printers making them very versatile.

3D Printing Forge offers a wide selection of materials for FDM process. For more detail please go to our Materials page.

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The maximum print volumes for FDM prints are based on material: 

  • 290X290X400mm - PLA, PETG

  • 290X245X300 - ABS, ASA, PA12-CF, PC, TPU

When is best to use FDM printing?

Wherever possible we here at 3D Printing Forge recommend FDM printing process. The main benefits of this process are: 

  • Low cost

  • Good selection of different materials

  • Possible to print larger parts than with resin

  • Often parts can be designed so that no post processing is required

  • Well suited for manufacturing parts in large quantities

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As rule of thumb, if your part/product meets most of the criteria below, then FDM printing is likely to be a good option:

  • Parts do not have very small details

  • Layer lines are not an issue

  • Medium/high volume manufacturing

  • Specific material is required​ for performance

  • Fast turnaround time required

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When FDM printing may not be optimal?

Although it is our recommended production method, it is not suitable for all instances.

Main factors that may make FDM unsuitable:

  • The part has very small details

  • Layer lines are not acceptable

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FDM process

FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) printers are probably the most widely recognised from social media posts. This specific technology is also known as FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication). Although technically the two are not identical technologies the terms are largely used interchangeably with FDM being the most common term. However, unless you are trying to push your part material properties to the absolute limit, the differences are not really relevant. Main difference is that FDM uses a heated build chamber. 

This technology uses thermoplastic materials that get melted and extruded through a small nozzle. The nozzle moves around the build volume to deposit the material in layers. 

Significant advantage of FDM process is the variety of available materials.

Parts printed using FDM have a distinct look as the layer lines are usually visible. Material choice and colour also play a key role in how the finished part will look like. It is possible to sand and paint the parts if you do not like the layer lines and prefer more smooth surface finish.

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Pros

  • Wide material selection

  • Cost effective

  • Suitable for production parts

  • Fast turnaround

  • Minimal post processing

  • Can print large parts

Materials we provide:
  • PLA

  • PETG

  • ABS

  • ASA

  • PA12-CF (Nylon with carbon fibre)

  • PC

  • TPU

We can also provide more specialist materials (e.g. flame retardant, ESD safe etc). If you are interested in these please contact us.

Cons
  • Cannot produce small detailed features
  • Visible layer lines
  • Material properties not as good as injection moulded parts
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