Stratasys Direct is the gold standard for Fused Deposition Modeling 3D printing services. Our proven track record in manufacturing high-performance FDM parts is backed with ISO9001, AS9100, and ITAR certifications, quality audits, and process controls, ensuring we meet the highest requirements and standards.
As pioneers of FDM 3D printing technology, we excel at taking manufacturing projects to the next level. We leverage an expansive fleet of industrial-grade FDM printers and a team of engineering experts that continuously drive innovation with new materials and research, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. When you outsource to Stratasys Direct, you gain a partner with 30 years of additive expertise and a team, ready to exceed your expectations. So, whether you’re in the early stages of development or the final production phase of your FDM project, choose a partner with an unwavering commitment to excellence -- Stratasys Direct.
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We offer a diverse selection of engineering-grade FDM materials to meet your project needs. Choose from high-strength options like ABS and ULTEM™ to flexible filaments like TPU. Our extensive portfolio of fused deposition modeling materials can handle the most demanding requirements, whether it's for prototypes, functional end-use parts, or anything in between.
Static dissipative properties for applications where a static charge can:
ESD values range from 104 – 109 ohms per square inch. This makes the material particularly suitable for space and industrial applications where these qualities are critical.
Procuring FDM parts is a breeze with our streamlined online service. Simply upload your CAD files and select from a range of advanced thermoplastics tailored to your application's needs. Our intuitive platform provides immediate quotes and the option to consult with our FDM specialists for material recommendations and design optimizations, ensuring high-quality parts with swift turnaround times.
Discover the versatility of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) with finishing capabilities that go beyond the print. Our expert finish and assembly services transform your designs with various post-processing options, including bonding, smoothing, texturing, painting, sanding, epoxy coating, electroplating, and more. These finishing operations transform our components, enabling you to achieve outstanding aesthetics, without compromising performance. We also provide EMI/RFI shielding for electronic applications, and plating and coatings to enhance durability and visual appeal. Whether you're looking for a smooth, polished finish, or enhanced durability and performance, Stratasys Direct provides finishing options that elevate your FDM components to new levels.
At Stratasys Direct, we don’t just meet the high standards of FDM 3D printing – we set them. Our. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in every step of the manufacturing process, from the material section to the final delivery of your FDM parts. Our rigorous process controls, comprehensive quality audits, and ISO9001, AS9100, and ITAR certifications attest to our dedication to producing superior FDM parts. We won’t rest until we surpass expectations. Choose Stratasys Direct for FDM 3D printing that guarantees reliability and performance.
This guide equips you with the knowledge to design perfect FDM parts from the start. Learn the key considerations for FDM printing, including its unique build process, to avoid common pitfalls and ensure successful, functional parts for both prototyping and potential manufacturing applications.
FDM is empowering multiple industries with flexibility and versatility. From high-resolution prototypes, to durable end-use parts, explore the possibilities for your next project.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM or also known as FFF) is one of the most common and known methods of 3D printing. It is the one technology that offers the ability to use a wide variety of known engineering-grade thermoplastic materials commonly used in injection molding. This allows users to additively manufacture production parts with materials they are familiar with or test 3D printed prototypes using the same material they plan to use in injection molding.
FDM utilizes strong, engineering-grade materials like ABS, Polycarbonate and ULTEM™ 9085 Resin. FDM can create production parts and functional prototypes with outstanding thermal and chemical resistance and excellent strength-to-weight ratios.
FDM (Monikers: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), filament extrusion, fused filament deposition, material deposition) was invented by Stratasys and works by feeding material filament to a print head that then melts the material, drive wheels extrude the melted material onto the build sheet to form a single layer; The build platform then lowers in the Z-axis by small increments so that the print head can extrude the next layer of material onto the previous layer creating a 3D object.
First we take the CAD or STL 3D file, and within the software we slice the file into horizontal layers based on the layer height that was chosen. As a note, the layer heights currently range from 0.005" inch (Z) to 0.020" inch (Z). Larger parts, such as bumpers for an automotive vehicle may be built in thicker layer heights to reduce the build time, whereas smaller geometries such as a cell phone case could be built in a smaller layer height to take advantage of the finer detail and smaller wall thickness capabilities.
Once the software has sliced the part into layers, it will then generate the support structure that will be used for the build. Support structures are always used on the bottom layers of the model to provide separation from the build sheet as well as for overhangs or areas of the geometry that do not have sufficient model material area from the previous layer. Finally, the tool path or "raster fill" for each layer is generated. We now have a part that can be sent to the printer.
Now it is time for lights-out manufacturing. We say this as machine operators can start the printing of the part, turn off the lights, and head home. Upon arriving the next day or after the build is completed, the build sheet containing the part(s) can be removed from the machine and placed on the rack for the next step in the process. This next step may be the manual removal of support materials for our higher heat materials such as ULTEM™ resin or could involve our hands-free support removal for various materials such as electrostatic dissipative ABS (ABS ESD7) which uses soluble support that is dissolved away in our Water Works process.
9085, 1010 and ULTEM™ trademarks are used under license from SABIC, its affiliate or subsidiary.
