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Fused Deposition Modeling

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What is FDM 3D Printing?

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a 3D printing technology widely known for its speed, accuracy, and competitive cost. An FDM machine precisely extrudes melted plastic filament to create a part. FDM parts can be made in as fast as one day.

Fused Deposition Modeling 3D printing service offers large build volumes up to 24″ x 36″ x 36″ platforms. FDM offers the largest variety of colors and selection of production-grade thermoplastics of any 3D printing process. Material range from general-purpose ABS or ASA to high performing polycarbonate and heat resistant ULTEM.

Video: FDM 3D Printing

gives a brief overview of FDM 3D Printing.

Why Use FDM For Your Parts?


Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is among the most easily accessible and recognizable additive manufacturing technologies worldwide. Available to both 3D printing hobbyists and large-volume manufacturers alike, it is known for its speed and precision in generating three-dimensional polymeric structures using a choice of feedstock materials. The range of filaments available for fused deposition modeling include:

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS-M30, ABS-M30i, ABSi)

Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA)

Polycarbonates (PC, PC-ABS and PC-ISO)

High-performance plastics (PPSF, Ultem 1010, Ultem 9085, and Nylon-12)

Benefits Of Fused Deposition Modeling

FDM is a cost-effective additive manufacturing process, especially for rapid prototyping or low-volume production. Since FDM prints require little post-processing and use more readily available materials, leads times from quote to print and delivery are fast.

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Prototyping PLA


RJC expanded our available materials to include Prototyping PLA, a low-cost, rigid thermoplastic produced via Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) using an array of desktop 3D printers. PLA comes in four colors: black, red, white, and blue. PLA is great for developing concept models or low-wear indoor products.Because of lower overhead and material costs, PLA is typically less than half the price of our other FDM options. In exchange, there are trades offs with a lower heat-deflection (130°F compared to 186-420°F), lower print volume (~9” max dimension compared to 36”), and fewer plastic options. Keeping that in mind, PLA prints have clean finishes, vibrant colors, and quick lead times.

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