3D Printing with FDM Technology

Discover professional FDM 3D printing for your next rapid prototyping and production projects.

What is FDM 3D printing technology?

FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) is an additive manufacturing method that creates parts additively using a filament. The process deposits the filament layer by layer, according to your 3D model.

FDM printers work by the addition of layers using FDM filaments. It is one of the most used additive manufacturing technologies, appearing as a natural alternative to traditional manufacturing processes.

During the FDM 3D printing process, the filament is extruded through a nozzle which melts while being gradually deposited in a structured way on the build platform until the object is finished. This process works by the material being melted and extruded through a nozzle to 3D print a cross-section of an object, each layer at a time. The extruder of the 3D printer is attached to a system with three axes: X, Y, and Z directions. When the material is melted and extruded, it is deposited in predetermined locations on the 3D printing bed, where it cools and solidifies. The bed lowers for each new layer, and this process repeats until the object is completed. 

There is also particular importance of support structures in filament 3D printing technologies. While 3D printing with FDM technology, support structures are often required. Indeed, some geometries, such as overhangs, can’t be printed without support.

Why choose FDM / FFF 3D printing technology?

Fused Deposition Modeling is one of the most popular 3D printing technologies. It is an excellent option for prototyping and the series production of functional parts. It is an affordable 3D printing solution. This technology offers the possibility to print diverse materials, from plastic to metal.

Resistant

The finished parts are reliable and ready to withstand repeated stress.

delivery-in-hand

Customization

Don’t wait any longer to get your custom-made functional 3D printed parts. 

Low cost

This FDM technology is one of the most cost-effective options.

On-demand FDM 3D Printing Service

Sculpteo provides you with the best online 3D Printing Services for your metal parts. Thanks to our expertise in FDM technology, you can choose between several options, instantly receive a quote, and let us handle the manufacturing in our ISO 9001-certified factory.

Start using professional FDM technology today by uploading a 3D file.

What is FDM 3D printing used for?

FDM is the most cost-effective way of producing custom thermoplastic parts and prototypes. FDM 3D printers can be used with multiple materials (FDM filaments can be made of ABS, PLA, PET, ULTEM, or metal). At Sculpteo, we offer three options: PLA, Ultrafuse® 316L, and Ultrafuse® 17-4. While using FDM 3D printing with plastic filament such as PLA appears to be a great process to improve your rapid prototyping process and create reliable, functional prototypes. Our PLA plastic or polylactic acid material uses a Big Rep 3D printer, allowing us to print large parts of 1x1x1m with a good resolution.

But this additive manufacturing technology is not only using plastic materials. Metal is becoming a natural alternative to manufacturing objects with higher performances. Using metal filament, our FDM process is the perfect choice for tooling, jigs and fixtures, molds, and other functional parts, where resistance and durability are needed. Ultrafuse materials are great solutions for medical, automotive, or aerospace industries to create functional prototypes and series production.

What is FDM 3D printing?

FDM stands for Fused Deposition Modeling and works with specialized 3D printers and production-grade thermoplastics. This additive manufacturing method builds 3D printed parts additively using a filament. The process deposits the filament layer by layer, according to your 3D model.

    Which is better, FDM or SLA?

    Both FDM and SLA 3D printing is commonly used. There is no better technology between these two. Your choice will depend on your 3D projects. FDM is better for large and simple parts, while SLA is a better solution for complex and detailed objects.

    Is FDM the same as 3D printing?

    Yes, FDM is a 3D printing technique. 

    Which is stronger, FDM or SLA?

    Plastic objects 3D printed using FDM will be stronger and more resistant than resin parts manufactured using SLA (Stereolithography).

    FDM 3D Printing Materials

    On our online 3D printing service, you can now order parts produced with FDM 3D printers. Discover the FDM filament available now!