Parts On Demand
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) offers 3D printing’s unparalleled design freedom and fast lead times coupled with strong thermoplastics.
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.
Being a part of the family that invented FDM technology means we’re backed by Stratasys’ strong commitment to R&D.
Our in-house FDM experts are constantly exploring new applications and possibilities alongside the Stratasys team.
FDM helps companies say yes to more opportunities in low-volume, customized production parts.
FDM technology allows you to use engineering-grade thermoplastics that are ready for harsh environments, tough testing, and demanding applications.
Use the same strong, stable plastics you’re familiar with to build geometries only attainable with 3D printing.
A wide-range of industry specific thermoplastics will help you achieve specific characteristics.
Projects in the industrial, heavy machinery and transportation industries utilize PC-ABS for its superior strength, and aerospace engineers favor ULTEM™ 9085 Resin and ULTEM™ 1010 Resin for their FST ratings and FAA 25.853 compliance.
Some materials feature biocompatibility and MRI transparency for medical applications.
One unique function of FDM 3D printers is a build mode that allows users to fill in thicker sections of the part geometry with what’s called “sparse fill.”
Sparse fill is when plastic is extruded in a scaffolding construction instead of a standard 3D printed layer. Solid fill is when the interior sections of the geometry have no air-gap between raster (the interior fill).
This results in sections of a 3D part being nearly hollow, but with the support needed to retain strength and rigidity. The exterior of either solid or sparse looks the same, while the sparse version greatly reduces the weight when compared to its solid counterpart.
Sparse-filled parts can be finished with the same post processes as solid-filled parts with the same processes as solid-filled parts (such as epoxy, primer, and paint).
Sparse fill means less material built into the part, so the weight of the final part is significantly reduced.
Because the 3D printer has less plastic to lay down in each layer, a part that utilizes sparse fill takes less time to build, reducing delivery time.
Additionally, the reduction in material used to build spare fill parts and faster print time contributes to a cheaper overall part.
General use "go-to" material. Variety of color options. Good for parts 1" inch cubed to parts larger than 5' feet.
Learn moreStrong ABS thermoplastic compounded with carbon resulting in static dissipative properties
Learn moreGeneral use FDM "go-to" material. UV-stable with a variety of color-fast color options
Learn morePPSF (PPSU) combines strong mechanical performance with high temperature and chemical resistance
Learn moreRigid, highest heat resistance; FST certified; Bio-compatible; Food contact certified
Learn moreHigh strength, high heat resistance; FST certified per "14 CFR/FAR 25.853" & "ASTM F814/E662"
Learn moreLow coefficient of variance and increased mechanical properties vs. the standard ULTEM™ 9085 resin. FST certified per "14 CFR/FAR 25.853" & "ASTM F814/E662"
Learn moreHigh elongation at break, fatigue resistance; Resistance to moderate solvents, alcohols, chemicals
Learn moreAntero™ 800NA PEKK-based thermoplastic combines FDM's design freedom and ease of use with the excellent mechanical properties and low outgassing characteristics of PEKK material
Learn moreAntero™ 840CN03 is a PEKK-based FDM thermoplastic combining the excellent physical and mechanical qualities of PEKK with electrostatic dissipative (ESD) properties. The material is filled 3% by weight with carbon nanotubes.
Learn moreFDM® TPU 92A is a thermoplastic polyurethane with a Shore A value of 92. FDM TPU 92A brings the benefits of elastomers to FDM 3D printing and offers the capability to quickly produce large and complex elastomer parts.
Learn moreFDM has proven to build durable production parts for low-volume and short-run production applications. It is also effective for high volumes of components when the designs are too complex for conventional manufacturing to execute.
With fast lead times and lightweight possibilities, our advanced manufacturing solutions allow for custom operator and applications like jigs and fixtures.
FDM parts are mechanically, thermally and chemically strong, making it an ideal technology for challenging plastic applications.
Making a precision FDM part takes more than just a machine. It takes a responsive team behind the technology, working to validate the materials and processes that ensure your project’s success.
As part of the Stratasys family, our FDM services are backed by pioneers of the 3D printing industry.
Years of experience with FDM has led us to develop proprietary manufacturing techniques and undertake material development for specialized applications.
With quality certifications ISO 9001 and AS9100 certifications and ITAR registration, our team of engineers won’t rest until your requirements are met for precise parts.
Our team of experts are ready to take on your project with our advanced manufacturing solutions.
The orientation of a printed part on the build platform has an effect on its strength. Parts are stronger along the X- and Y-axis of the build than the Z-axis.
FDM is available in several resolutions. At its highest resolution, the layer thickness is 0.005” and the X/Y resolution is 0.024”.
Washers, nuts, bolts, threaded rods, or other objects can be inserted mid-build by technicians without secondary operations.
Learn more about what design considerations you should keep in mind with FDM.
