Manufacturing Terms

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Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

manufacturing

An additive manufacturing process that extrudes thermoplastic material layer by layer to build parts.

expanded

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is an additive manufacturing technology utilized to produce parts by extruding heated thermoplastic filament through a nozzle, which is then deposited layer by layer on a build platform. This technology is widely used for prototyping and production of geometric shapes due to its ability to create durable plastic parts with complex geometries and moderate strength properties.

examples

Production of ABS plastic components measuring 200 mm x 150 mm x 100 mm.

Commonly used in the prototyping phase within the automotive sector to create fixtures and tooling aids.

Creation of functional prototypes with a resolution of 100 micrometers (0.0039 inches) using PLA material.

Frequently used by engineers and designers for educational models and concept iterations.

related terms

Additive Manufacturing (AM)
Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a process of creating three-dimensional objects by sequentially adding material based on digital models.
Extrusion
A manufacturing process where material is pushed through a die to create objects of a fixed cross-sectional profile.
Injection molding
A manufacturing process for producing parts by injecting molten material into a mold.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing technology that uses a laser to sinter powdered material into a solid structure.
Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS)
A Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) is an integrated network of automated machines and tools capable of adapting to variable product volumes and types.