FDM – Fused Deposition Modelling

FDM is a popular and cost-effective 3D printing method that involves melting a thermoplastic filament and extruding it layer by layer to create a 3D object. FDM is widely used due to its simplicity, low cost, and versatility - suitable for functional prototypes, jigs, and low-cost parts.

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FDM 3D Printing Materials

Material

Features

Applications

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

Tough and durable


Heat and impact resistant


Requires a heated bed to print


Requires ventilation

Functional prototypes

ASA

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Nylon

Strong, durable, and lightweight


Tough and partially flexible


Heat and impact resistant


Very complex to print on FDM

Functional prototypes


Wear resistant parts

PA-CF (Reinforced with Carbon Fiber)

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PC (Polycarbonate)

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PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)

Compatible with lower printing temperatures for faster production


Humidity and chemical resistant


High transparency


Can be food safe

Waterproof applications


Snap-fit components

PLA (Matte)

The easiest FDM materials to print


Rigid, strong, but brittle


Less resistant to heat and chemicals


Biodegradable


Odorless

Concept models


Looks-like prototypes

PLA (Polylactic Acid)

The easiest FDM materials to print


Rigid, strong, but brittle


Less resistant to heat and chemicals


Biodegradable


Odorless

Concept models


Looks-like prototypes

PLA-ST (High impact strength)

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PVA (polyvinyl alcohol)

Soluble support material


Dissolves in water

Support material

TPE (Flexible)

Flexible and stretchable


Impact resistant


Excellent vibration dampening

Flexible prototypes

TPU (Flexible - Transparent)

Flexible and stretchable


Impact resistant


Excellent vibration dampening

Flexible prototypes

TPU-95A

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FDM Infill Options

Low Density (<20% Infill)

Provides a lightweight structure, ideal for non-load bearing prototypes and models. This is the least expensive infill option.

Medium Density (20%-50% Infill)

Balances strength and material use, suitable for functional parts requiring moderate durability.

High Density (50%-90% Infill)

Delivers great strength and rigidity for parts subject to high stress or heavy loads.

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FDM Layer Thickness Options

Layer height refers to the thickness of each individual layer in a 3D print. Thinner layers produce smoother, more detailed prints but take longer. Thicker layers print faster but result in a rougher surface with less detail. Choosing the right layer height depends on the part’s required balance between quality and production time.

Rapid – 300 µm

Optimized for fast printing, perfect for large parts or early-stage prototypes where speed is critical.

Standard – 200 µm

Balanced between detail and speed, ideal for most functional prototypes and models.

Fine – 100 µm

For high-resolution prints with excellent surface finish and intricate details.

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Available Surface Finishes

As Printed Finish

This is the raw finish right off the printer, with visible layer lines. It's ideal for prototypes and functional parts where aesthetics is not a priority. Supports are removed.

Epoxy Coating

A layer of epoxy is applied to smooth and strengthen the print. This provides a glossy, durable finish and is great for parts that need to be waterproof or stronger.

Custom Finish

Tailor your FDM 3D-printed parts with a finish that meets your needs. Specify your preferred finish, such as sanding for a smooth surface, sealing for durability, or assembly and joining for multi-part projects.

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