Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

Lifecycle

Lead Time

Materials

Resolution

Early stage prototyping
24 hours
PLA, ABS, PETG, PC, Nylon, ASA, PEI, PEEK, ABS-CF, PETG-CF, PLA-CF, PCL
0.05-0.2 mm

About the Process

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is a 3D printing technology (also known as additive manufacturing) commonly used for modeling, prototyping, and production applications. Each layer is created by extruding material from a nozzle to produce 3D objects. At Shapefy, all FDM prints are produced according to the resolution chosen by the customer keeping a balance of accuracy and strength with speed.

FDM processes require support material, either breakaway or soluble, so it’s important to keep this in mind when choosing this process as it can affect the final part.

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Our FDM 3D printing service

Our FDM 3D printing machines will allow you to rapidly verify your designs with low-cost prototypes. Simply upload your parts, get a quote, and go into production in less than 5 minutes.

Our Capabilities

Requirement

Specification

Maximum build size

400 x 400 x 400 mm

Standard lead time

1 working day

Dimensional accuracy

+/- 0.4 mm or +/- 0.2% per cm

Layer height

50-300 μm

Infill

25-100%
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Our FDM Manufacturing standards

We manufacture your parts according to strict manufacturing standards. A verification of these requirements is included in our inspection report that is shipped with every order on request.

  • A dimensional accuracy of ± 0.25% with a lower limit of ± 0.4 mm

  • Consistent surface finish with no bumps or delamination. Marks left by retraction and layer changing are acceptable.

  • All support material is removed such that the supported surface has a consistent finish.

  • All parts are printed with 3 outline / perimeter shells or a wall thickness of 1.2 mm.

Explore our 3D printing service materials

Materials for every type of additive manufacturing project. From precision prototypes to end-use parts.

Design Recommendations

Min Feature Size

Tolerance

Min Wall Thickness

Min Hole Diameter

Min Gaps for Mating Parts

0.8 mm
+/- 0.4 mm or +/- 0.2% per cm
1.2 mm
1 mm
0.1 mm minimum; 0.2 mm to ensure fit

Cost Saving Tips

1. Cut large models into multiple smaller parts, to fit on a smaller, less expensive machines.
2. Reduce the amount of support material required by overhangs and special orientations.
3. Choose PLA for simple geometry parts and where tolerance is less important.
Design for Manufacturing Tips

We manufacture your parts according to strict manufacturing standards. A verification of these requirements is included in our inspection report that is shipped with every order on request.

  • No internal cavities

  • Limit curved surfaces

  • Orientation on small holes is very important (xy plane is much more cylindrical.

  • Bridging: distances of up to 10 mm do not necessarily need support material, as long as the area being printed has support on both sides of the material being laid down.