FDM printing technology

What is the FDM method?

FDM technology involves the use of plastics. Under the influence of high temperature, they can be formed into various shapes. More specifically, 3D fdm printing involves superimposing successive layers of semi-liquid material that is extruded from a heated nozzle. The material itself has the form of a string. It may have a different diameter, 1.75 mm or 2.85 mm. This line is wound on a spool. Such material is technically referred to as filament. During printing, the FDM 3D printer is heated to a very high temperature. One that can melt the filament. Most often, the temperature is from 190°C to 260°C. This depends on the specific printer model. The filament itself is transformed into a semi-liquid state under the influence of high temperature, which allows the creation of shapes on the worktable of the 3D printer.

Materials used in FDM technology

Various materials are used in 3D technology. The most popular ones include ABS and PLA. ABS is a thermoplastic used primarily in industry. PLA material is based on organic compounds and is biodegradable. In addition to ABS and PLA materials, FDM technology also uses materials such as nylon, PET-G and TPU. Nylon, due to its high strength, is used, for example, for the production of ropes. PET-G is used to produce plastic bottles. However, TPU is characterized by high flexibility. It is a rubber-like material. Importantly, all these filaments are also available in different colors. The use of plastics in FDM technology allows the creation of both prototypes and final products.

Possibilities and benefits of FDM technology

FDM technology offers enormous possibilities. First of all, it is the ability to create functional and high-quality prototypes, but also final products. Objects made using the FDM method are characterized by very high durability and resistance to high temperatures and various types of chemicals. Moreover, it is a very economical method. This is due to the rapid pace of part construction and low material losses. This method is used not only in industry. 3D printing using FDM technology is also used in offices and homes.

FDM technologies are the most popular 3D printing method today. It is thanks to her that 3D printing has become so common nowadays. This is no longer just a solution that can be used by industry or scientific institutions. Thanks to FDM technology, 3D printing has become available to almost everyone. And importantly, the use of this method is becoming cheaper and cheaper.

How does printing work?

FDM printing should start with preparing a design in a CAD program. Then, we convert the finished project to the file extension appropriate for the printer. We copy the finished 3D model to the printer's memory and wait until it optimizes the printing process. Then we provide the values ​​that the printer requires to start printing and feed the filament to the head. We start printing and we can go for coffee or shopping. The FDM printer will not require maintenance at this point, especially if we have put a lot of effort into the project.

The printer moves the head over the work table in the X and Y axes and smoothly applies plastic to the table surface, drawing the shape of the base. When the first layer is completed, the head moves in the Z axis and starts printing the next layer. This will create a model, layer by layer.

When the printer finishes printing, remove the model from the print bed and then remove the supports. The item is ready!