Capability

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

Overview

Fused Deposition Modeling

Durability That Lasts

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) utilizes a filament that’s heated in a nozzle and then extruded layer by layer until the part is fully built. FDM allows for printing with engineered plastics, producing very strong parts. This process is very slow though and can have medium to low surface finish. If needed, surfaces can be modified, post processed, and allow for minimum machining capabilities.

FDM is ideal for low volume end-use parts, prototypes, and tooling applications.

Process

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) Process

Step 1​

Energy is applied, material is extruded through heated nozzle.

Step 2​

One layer/cross-section is applied to the build platform.

Step 3​

Platform is lowered and next layer of material is fused to the previous layer. Process is repeated.

Step 4​

Completed part is then ready to remove from build plate.

Build Specs

Max Size Capabilities

FDM utilizes dual heads. One for support and the other for the plastic. Due to the nature of how supports are printed, orientation of your part is critical. When designing for FDM if you have any questions please provide them along with your quote.

Dimension Capacity
X (length) 36"(914mm) stratasys
13" (330mm) markforged
Y (width) 24​"(610mm) stratasys
10.63"(270mm) markforged
Z (depth) 36​" (914mm) stratasys
7.87"(200mm) markforged
Layer Thickness The standard layer thickness is 0.010 inch. We can do 0.005, 0.007, and 0.02-inch layers as well.

Materials

Many companies have developed filaments over the past few years, however only Stratasys and Markforged materials stand above the rest.

  • ONYX (Nylon 6 with CF)
  • ONYX with fibers
  • Carbon Fiber
  • Fiberglass
  • Kevlar
  • PLA
  • ABS-ESD7
  • ABS-M30
  • ASA
  • Nylon 12CF
  • Polycarbonate (PC)
  • Ultem 9085
  • Ultem 1010
View All Materials

Tolerances

Utilizing printers and filaments with proven success, 3D parts unlimited will deliver high tolerance parts. If you have critical dimensions please specify.

  • ​+/- .005 in.
  • ± 0.002 in/in for each additional inch.

3D Printing Advantages

Markforged X7

  • Utilizes a fiber strand in between layers
  • Robust machine floor filaments
  • Smaller printer size
VS

Stratasys Fortus 900MC

  • Wide variety of colored filaments
  • Accurate durable prints
  • Larger build plate

Get A Quote

If you would like to learn more about 3D printing and receive a quote, simply fill out our quote request form or call us toll free at 1-855-382-6349.

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