Fused deposition modeling ;
Fused deposition modelling (FDM), also known as the material extrusion additive manufacturing
technique, utilizes polymers as the raw material (filament). The filament is usually heated to a molten state
and then extruded through the nozzle of the machine (3D printer).
Fused Deposition Modeling Use :
A significant advantage of FDM technology is the quantity of available materials. They include durable
engineering-grade thermoplastics for high-use, general purpose printing, strong carbon fiber materials, and
high-performance polymers capable of meeting the most demanding applications.
The Characteristics Of FDM;
FDM uses layers with a height varying from 0.02 mm to 0.4 mm. A higher layer height produces parts that
print more quickly and more cheaply, whereas a lower layer height produces components that are
smoother and better represent curved geometries.2022, ഓഗ 9
Fused deposition modeling advantages and disadvantages
Advantages of FDM
FDM is the most cost-effective method of manufacturing bespoke thermoplastic components
and prototypes.
Due to the lower cost of FDM printers and wide availability, the lead times are minimal and
cheaper than other additive manufacturing processes.
There is a large variety of thermoplastic materials available for prototyping and certain non-
commercial practicals. Most common injection moulding materials can be replicated using
FDM
The technology is aesthetically pleasing, easy to use, and appropriate for the workplace.
Mechanical and environmental stability are provided by supported production-grade
thermoplastics.
FDM technology makes complex shapes and voids that would otherwise be impractical
possible.
Disadvantages of FDM
When compared to other 3D printing methods, FDM has the lowest dimensional accuracy
and resolution, making it unsuitable for items with delicate features.
Because FDM items are prone to noticeable layer lines, post-processing is essential for a
smooth finish.
Because of the layer adhesion technique, FDM components are inherently anisotropic.
Fused deposition modelling materials
The variety of materials accessible is one of FDM’s primary features. Commodity
thermoplastics such as PLA and ABS to engineering materials such as PA, TPU, and PETG.
For prototyping, there are high-performance thermoplastics such as PEEK and PEI during
the embodiment stages of the new product design.
ABS
ABS-M30 is an excellent material for conceptual modelling, functional prototyping,
production tools, and end-use parts. ABS-M30, up to 70% stronger than conventional FDM
ABS, is perfect for production components, thermoforming tools, lightweight jigs and
fixtures, and concept models. This thermoplastic has high tensile, impact, and flexural
strength. Sparse or solid fill is available.
Pros – Offers good strength, good temperature resistance
Cons – More susceptible to warping
PC
PC (polycarbonate) is widely used in the automotive, aerospace, and medical industries,
among many others. PC provides precision, durability, and stability, resulting in sturdy parts
that resist functional testing. Rapid tooling, jigs and fixtures for production
Pros – Accurate, Rigid, Stable, RF transparent, High tensile and flexural
Cons – Not widely available, higher cost
PC-ABS
PC-ABS combines the best qualities of both PC and ABS materials, such as strong strength
with the heat resistance of PC and the flexibility of ABS. PC-ABS composites are widely
used in automotive, electronics, and telecommunications applications. Form fit and functional
prototypes, low-volume production parts
Pros – High impact strength, High heat resistance
Cons -Not widely available, higher cost
PLA
PLA is a bioplastic and is one of the standard materials for this technology, along with ABS
(Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene).
Pros – Excellent visual quality, Easy to print with
Cons- Low impact strength
Nylon
Nylon is one of the most widely used commercial FDM materials, and it possesses a good
combination of tensile strength and toughness. Generally used for rapid prototyping concept
validation models, prototype parts for visual design validation, and production toolings such
as jigs, fixtures, and manufacturing aids. It can also be used for low-volume production parts
with less demanding functional parts.
Pros – High strength, Excellent wear, and chemical resistance
Cons – Low humidity resistance
PETG
Pros – Food safe although grooves and grannies of notches between the layers are a critical
point for bacterial growth, good strength, easy to print
Cons – Not widely available, higher cost
TPU
TPU 92A FDM Elastomer is a thermoplastic polyurethane substance used to make long-
lasting elastomer components. The material allows for the development of high-functioning,
long-lasting, and complicated parts with the anticipated material features of an elastomeric
material, such as enhanced tear resistance, fatigue resistance, and memory recovery.
Pros – Very flexible, good toughness, Durable, Abrasion resistance
Cons – Difficult to print accurately
PEI
Pros – Excellent strength-to-weight ratio, Excellent fire and chemical resistance
Cons – High cost
The Applications Of FDM ;
FDM is commonly used in TV networks.
FDM is used in Radio Broadcasting. ...
The first-generation cellular telephone uses FDM.
Frequency Division Multiplexing System is also used in Satelite Communication system. ...
Frequency Division Multiplexing System is used in the telephone system.
Principle of fused deposition modelling
Principle of fused deposition modelling
FDM’s additive nature and soluble support material simplify the creation of parts with complex geometries
and internal cavities. FDM technology is clean and office-friendly, thanks to production grade materials that
are mechanically and environmentally stable. FDM thermoplastics also deliver the necessary properties for
applications that demand precise tolerances, durability, and stability in different environments. They include
many of the same thermoplastics used in traditional manufacturing processes like injection molding.
