FDM Technologoy
Increase Your Productivity with 3D Printing
In the world of 3D printing, FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) is a technology that has created a major revolution. This technology allows the creation of three-dimensional objects by melting and layering plastic or similar materials. At MARM Engineering, we offer our expertise and experience in FDM technology to you.
What is FDM Technology?
FDM is a method used to create a sample or prototype in the 3D printing process. In this process, thermoplastic materials are melted with a nozzle and then added in layers to a surface. Each layer solidifies on top of the previous layer, eventually forming the desired object. FDM is a unique solution for rapid prototyping, customization, and production.
Advantages of FDM Technology
FDM Material List
Below is a list of some filament materials you can use, along with their properties. In addition, there are many other material alternatives available.
For more detailed information about the materials, please contact us.
Standard PLA filament is a biodegradable material derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. It prints at low temperatures, shows minimal warping, and is ideal for aesthetic models. However, its mechanical strength and heat resistance are more limited than many engineering-grade plastics.
PLA Pro is an enhanced version of standard PLA. It offers higher mechanical strength, greater heat resistance, and reduced brittleness. Because of these qualities it is preferred for functional parts that need to be tougher and longer-lasting. It may require slight tweaks to print settings, but the end results are stronger and more durable.
Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene is a thermoplastic widely used in both industry and 3D printing. Thanks to its high impact resistance and overall mechanical toughness, it excels for functional components. ABS also withstands higher temperatures than PLA, making it suitable for warmer environments. Because it tends to warp, a heated build plate—and often an enclosed print chamber—are recommended.
Thermoplastic Polyurethane is a rubber-like filament that delivers flexibility and elasticity. It’s chosen for soft parts that need shock absorption and abrasion resistance. Because TPU is softer than rigid filaments, slow print speeds and careful retraction settings are important. It works well for phone cases, shoe soles, flexible couplings, and similar applications.
Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol offers a mix of durability and ease of use. The glycol modification improves clarity and chemical resistance. PETG warps less than ABS and is stronger than PLA, striking a good balance between stiffness and flexibility. It usually prints at higher temperatures, yet produces little odor and minimal warping.
This is a high–temperature nylon (polyamide) filament reinforced with about 15 % carbon fiber. The carbon fibers boost strength, heat resistance, stiffness, and dimensional stability—ideal for engineering parts and functional prototypes. Because the fibers are abrasive, a hardened nozzle is recommended. It also requires higher print temperatures, a heated bed, and preferably an enclosed build chamber.
Acrylonitrile-Styrene-Acrylate provides mechanical properties similar to ABS but with superior resistance to UV light and weathering. That makes it well-suited for outdoor applications, automotive components, and signage exposed to sunlight. Like ABS, ASA benefits from a heated build plate and enclosure to minimize warping, producing strong, durable parts for exterior use.
Polyethylene Terephthalate is the clear, lightweight plastic commonly used for beverage bottles. As a 3D-printing filament it stands out for its high strength, chemical resistance, and food-contact safety.
Polyamide is prized in 3D printing for its toughness, flexibility, and wear resistance, making it a go-to material for functional parts under mechanical load. Because nylon readily absorbs moisture, it should be thoroughly dried before printing. With the right settings, PA delivers parts that are both strong and somewhat flexible.
This flame-retardant blend of Polycarbonate and ABS combines PC’s impact strength and heat resilience with ABS’s ease of processing. The built-in FR (flame-retardant) property reduces flammability to meet specific safety standards. It’s often used for electronics housings, automotive interior parts, and other applications requiring fire resistance. Printing typically calls for high temperatures, a heated bed, good ventilation, and, ideally, an enclosed chamber.
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) technology is a widely used 3D printing method that creates 3D objects by layering thermoplastic materials. The possibilities with this technology are generally as follows:
- Product Development: FDM enables rapid prototyping of designs, allowing ideas to be quickly tested and refined.
- Small-Scale Production: It offers a cost-effective solution for custom parts or low-volume production needs.
- Educational Use: Provides students and researchers with the opportunity to visualize engineering and design processes, enhancing learning.
- Art and Design Applications: Used in creative sectors to create complex geometric shapes and unique designs.
- Personalized Products: Offers flexibility in the production of custom, personalized products.
- Functional Testing: Produced parts can be tested in real-world conditions to evaluate functionality and durability.
- Spare Parts Production: Ideal for the reproduction and quick availability of especially old or hard-to-find parts.