Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a 3D printing process in which molten plastic is applied layer by layer through a nozzle to build a component. It enables the cost-effective and rapid production of functional prototypes and simple series components with good stability and visible layer lines – ideal for product development, jig and fixture construction, and many industrial and private applications.
Standard Service – FDM printing includes the removal of support structures and basic part cleaning. Print residue is removed and the part is prepared for further use, ensuring a clean surface and improved part quality for prototypes and functional parts.
Material selection for FDM
PLA-CF
FDM
PLA-CF is a carbon fiber reinforced PLA filament for FDM printing. It offers increased stiffness and a matte finish, making it particularly suitable for dimensionally stable prototypes, design models, and lightweight technical components.
PA6-GF
FDM
PA6-GF is a glass-fiber reinforced nylon for FDM printing. The material offers high strength, good temperature resistance, and high stiffness, making it particularly suitable for load-bearing functional components, housings, and technical applications in industrial environments.
ABS-GF
FDM
ABS-GF is a glass-fiber reinforced ABS filament for FDM printing. It offers increased stiffness, good heat resistance, and high mechanical stability, making it suitable for robust housings, technical components, and functional prototypes.
PA6-CF
FDM
PA6-CF is a carbon fiber reinforced nylon for FDM printing. It features high stiffness, good temperature resistance, and low weight, making it ideal for stable, durable components and technical applications in mechanical and fixture engineering.
Pomegranate Natural
FDM
POM Natural (Polyoxymethylene) is an engineering plastic for FDM printing with high strength, very good sliding properties, and high wear resistance. It is particularly suitable for gears, bearings, guides, and precise mechanical components.
PPA-CF
FDM
PPA-CF is a carbon fiber reinforced high-performance polyphthalamide for FDM printing. It offers very high rigidity, excellent temperature and chemical resistance, and is suitable for highly stressed, dimensionally stable components in demanding industrial applications.
PPS-CF
FDM
PPS-CF is a carbon fiber-reinforced, high-performance polymer for FDM printing. It offers excellent temperature, chemical, and flame resistance as well as high rigidity, making it suitable for demanding, stressed components in industry, mechanical engineering, and electronics applications.
PETG-CF
New York
PETG-CF is a carbon fiber reinforced PETG filament for FDM printing. It combines good impact strength with increased rigidity and low warpage, making it suitable for stable functional components, housings, and technical applications.
TPU
FDM
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a flexible FDM printing material with high elasticity and good abrasion resistance. It is ideal for elastic components such as seals, protective covers, flexible connections, and shock-absorbing parts.
PAHT-CF
FDM
PAHT-CF is a carbon fiber reinforced high-temperature nylon for FDM printing. It offers high stiffness, very good temperature resistance, and low weight, making it ideal for high-load, dimensionally stable components in mechanical engineering and for technical applications.
PC
FDM
PC (Polycarbonate) is a high-strength FDM printing material with very good impact resistance and high temperature resistance. It is suitable for stable, load-bearing components, technical housings, and applications where high strength and heat resistance are required.
FDM 3D Printing: Overview of Advantages and Disadvantages
Benefits
- Cost-effective – Ideal for prototypes, functional models, and inexpensive small series.
- Wide material selection – From PLA and PETG to technical plastics like ABS, ASA, or Nylon.
- Functional components – Good stability for housings, brackets, and technical parts.
- Fast production – Many components are ready for shipment in just 1 business day.
- Flexible for single pieces and small series – Economically producible from one part up to small quantities.
- Large components possible – Especially suitable for larger prototypes and structural parts.
- Post-processing possible – Parts can be sanded, painted, or glued.
- High dimensional accuracy – Typical tolerances of approx. ±0.2–0.5 mm, depending on the component and geometry.
Disadvantages
- Visible layer lines – The surface shows typical print layers and is rougher than with SLA processes.
- Support structures required – Overhangs often require support material that must be removed after printing.
- Lower isotropic strength – Components are usually less load-bearing between layers than within a layer.
- Surface quality depends on settings – Fine details and smooth surfaces require longer print times or post-processing.
- Material warpage possible – Certain materials can warp or shrink with larger parts.
- Limited detail accuracy – Very small or delicate structures are more difficult to represent than with resin or powder bed processes.
Order FDM 3D printing online: Upload your STL file with our configurator, choose your material, and receive an instant quote – production from 1 working day.