| The Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a rapid | | | | and polycarbonate/ABS blend. These materials are |
| prototyping technique used to convert CAD drawings | | | | available in several standard colors. The method is |
| into physical parts or objects. The process works by | | | | office-friendly and quiet. |
| extruding a semi-molten plastic filament through a | | | | It is quite fast for small parts on the order of a few |
| heated nozzle in a planned pattern of layers. When | | | | cubic inches, or those that have tall, thin form-factors. It |
| one layer is complete, the platform lowers by a layer | | | | can be very slow for parts with wide cross sections. |
| thickness and the process continues. A durable part | | | | The finishing of parts produced with this technique has |
| with regular surface finish and tolerance is created. It | | | | greatly improved over the years. FDM prototypes |
| can be regarded as an excellent option for the 3D | | | | have become the preferred choice among designers, |
| Models that want to closely characterize the final | | | | engineers, researchers, students and many other |
| product in strength and toughness. | | | | areas that use rapid prototyping. FDM creates tough |
| These models can be produced in round about twenty | | | | parts that are ideal for functional usage. The |
| four hours or more depending on the size and | | | | advantage of using this system is the relative simplicity |
| complexity of the object. It is perfectly suited for | | | | of the procedure. It does not need laser systems, uses |
| Conceptual models, Engineering models, and Functional | | | | comparatively inexpensive binders, and there is a |
| Testing prototypes. The Materials used in the FDM | | | | choice for the materials to be used. |
| process are ABS, polycarbonate, polyphenylsulfone | | | | |