The FDM process involves the heating of thermoplastic in thread form to close to its melting point and then its extrusion in horizontal layers on a build surface in accordance with the paths generated by an STL file. None of the free form processes can build a part or parts protruding unsupported into space however the FDM process solves thus by utilising a support material with a significantly lower degree of durability than the model material making up the finished part. The model material is built up in layers together with the supporting material, on completion the support material is broken and washed off. Typical layer thicknesses are 0.127 mm, 0.178 mm, 0.254 mm and 0.330 mm..
Advantages: High durability, Holds form within time limits, low water absorption and high dimensional accuracy.
Our process for creating a free form model with FDM technology is shown below. |
