Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

Extrusion print commonly know as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) in the case of Stratasys’ technology or also referred to as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is a solid-based rapid prototyping method that extrudes material layer-by-layer to build a model.  The system consists of a build platform, extrusion nozzle, and control system. This is a fast and cost effective process great for proving designs, fit and function testing, small production runs, jigs, and fixtures.

• Large material selection – including production-quality ABS and food-grade ABS
• Short lead times, standard lead time – 3 to 5 days.
• High strength
• Extremely durable
• Concept models
• Engineering models
• Functional testing
• Consumer products
• High-heat applications
• Initial prototypes

Tolerances for standard resolution:

• X/Y planes: +/- .005” for the first inch, plus +/- .002” for every inch thereafter
• Z plane: +/- .010” for the first inch, plus +/- .002” for every inch thereafter

Using engineering-grade thermoplastics such as ABS and polycarbonate materials, this technology builds parts in an additive process that enables complex geometries that are often difficult to duplicate with traditional manufacturing methods such as CNC machining.

Advantages

Customers in aerospace, automotive, healthcare and other industries rely on our capabilities for rapid delivery of dimensionally accurate, functional prototypes and small-quantity production parts that are able to resist high temperatures, mechanical stresses and chemical degradation. This process allows parts to be made directly from 3D CAD to thermoplastic materials without tooling.