Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) is one of the oldest Rapid Prototyping methods, FDM 3D printing technology layers tightly controlled applications of thermoplastic material in a process resembling printing with a regular ink printer. Heated jets move above the table along X and Y axes, melting the material, and the table (base of the layers) drops down allowing 3D printing in the Z axis.
Prototypes and 3D models with larger dimensions are made by joining smaller fragments with adhesives. These glued seams are stronger than the material itself so there is no risk of weakening the prototype by assembling it from parts.
Application:
- Prototypes of devices and machine parts (casings, switch-keys, brackets);
- Prototypes of glass and plastic packages (bottles, jars);
- Spare parts for machines and devices;
- Full-value tools and instruments;
- Prototypes of mated mechanisms;
- Consumer research;
- Strength testing, attestations, certifications;
- Functional tests, shape and matching tests, strength analyses;
- Ergonomics testing, FEM visualizations (detection of hazardous areas).
Advantages:
- High strength of completed products;
- Possibility of printing a model in standard colours: white, blue, yellow, green, black, red and grey;
- Accurate and functional prototypes with the lowest possible cost;
- Full representation of thermoplastics’ parameters (ABS, PC);
- Possibility of further mechanical processing (drilling, milling);
- Possibility of applying various electrolytic coatings (chromium plating);
- Tightness and water-resistance.
Materials:
- ABS M30 ecru colour,
- ABS M30 white colour,
- ABS M30 grey colour,
- ABS PLUS.