FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), also called Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), is a 3D printing process that builds parts by extruding melted thermoplastic filament through a heated nozzle, depositing it layer by layer.
In Practice
FDM is the most accessible and widely-used 3D printing technology. The Epicblaze v1 is an FDM printer — it melts filament (PLA, ABS, PETG, nylon, polycarbonate) at temperatures up to 350°C and deposits it in precise paths to build parts. Compared to SLA (resin) and SLS (powder sintering), FDM offers the best combination of material versatility, cost-effectiveness, and functional-part strength. SLA excels at surface finish and fine detail; SLS excels at complex geometries without supports. FDM excels at functional prototyping with engineering-grade materials.
Explore the Epicblaze v1 FDM Printer
Related Terms
The build plate (also called print bed or build platform) is the flat, heated surface on which a 3D printer deposits material layer by layer to construct a part.
Layer adhesion is the bond strength between consecutive deposited layers in a 3D printed part, determining the part's structural integrity in the Z-axis (vertical) direction.
Filament is the thermoplastic material — typically supplied as 1.75mm or 2.85mm diameter spools — that FDM 3D printers melt and extrude to create parts layer by layer.
Design for Manufacturing (DFM) is the engineering practice of designing parts and products so they can be efficiently and cost-effectively manufactured at scale, minimising production issues before tooling or production begins.
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PLA vs ABS Comparison
Strength, temperature resistance, and print settings for PLA and ABS.