Fused Deposition Modeling

Superior Large-Scale FDM 3D Printing with Unmatched Quality.

3D Printing Service utilizing Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

What is FDM 3D printing?

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a well-known additive manufacturing technique recognized for its rapidity, precision, and cost-effectiveness. By precisely extruding molten material, FDM machines are capable of producing parts in a remarkably short period of time, sometimes even within a single day.

We provide FDM 3D printing services that feature expansive build volumes of up to 24″ x 36″ x 36″ on Stratasys Fortus platforms. This method offers a wide array of colors and a diverse selection of production-grade thermoplastics compared to other 3D printing processes. The materials available range from standard ABS or ASA to advanced options like polycarbonate and heat-resistant ULTEM.

Finishing Options for FDM Parts

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) components are constructed using support material which is eliminated after the manufacturing process. This results in the part surfaces displaying delicate layer lines.

We offer a range of additional processing options to cater to your specific requirements, including painting and vapor smoothing.

FDM Standard Tolerances

General Tolerances for FDM 3D Printing

Tolerance Note	Description
General Tolerance	+/- a single build layer thickness for the first inch and +/- .002” for every inch thereafter.
Build Size	Up to 24″ x 36″ x 36″
Layer Height, less than 16″	0.010″ Layers (0.008″ for PLA)
Layer Height, greater than 16″ (up to 36″)	0.013″ Layers
Minimum Wall Thickness	0.047″(less than 16″), 0.060″ (greater than 16″)

Up to 24″ x 36″ x 36″ can be constructed with FDM 3D printing. parts up to 16″ can be produced by Stratasys Fortus 400/450-series machines, while parts larger than 16″ are produced by Stratasys Fortus 900MC or F900 platforms. With a build volume of 9.8″ x 8.3″ x 8.3, Prusa MK3S desktop FFF machines are used for PLA prototyping. Unless otherwise noted, general tolerances are applicable prior to secondary finishing or post-processing.

Fire-resistant Plastic 3D Printing

MXY’s 3D Print Service provides flame retardant polymers like FDM ULTEM 9085, FDM ULTEM 1010, and SLS Nylon 12, Flame Retardant, ideal for aviation and aerospace uses, meeting UL-94 V-0 and FAR 25.853 60 second burn test requirements.

Plastic 3D Printing Applications

Models Depicting Concepts

Product developers can easily produce physical prototypes of their designs using plastic 3D printing, thanks to its speed and versatility in the iterative process.

Rapid Prototyping

Plastic 3D printing enables the production of functional plastic prototypes, including moving parts and all-in-one assemblies.

Digital Production Directly

Plastic 3D Printing is perfect for creating numerous customized or individual parts due to its exceptional precision and reliability.

fDM 3D Printing Materials

Available FDM Materials

Material Name	Color(s)	Tensile Strength, Yield (XZ MPa-ZX MPa)	Elongation at Break (XZ%-ZX%)	HDT @ 66 psi (°C)
ABS-M30	Black, Blue, Dark Grey, Ivory, Red, White	32 MPa-28 MPa	7%-2%	96 °C
ABS-ESD7	Black (electrostatic dissipative properties)	36 MPa	3%	96 °C
ABSi	Translucent Natural, Translucent Amber, Translucent Red	37 MPa	4.4%	86 °C
ASA	Black, Dark Blue, Dark Gray, Light Gray, Green, Ivory, Orange, Red, White, Yellow	27 MPa	9%-3%	98 °C
Nylon 12	Black	49.3 MPa-41.8 MPa	30%-6.5%	91.9 °C
PC-ABS	Black	41 MPa	6%	110 °C
PC	White	57 MPa-42 MPa	4.8%-2.5%	138 °C
PC-ISO	Translucent Natural, White	57 MPa	4%	133 °C
PPSF	Tan	55 MPa	3%	189 °C @ 264 psi
Prototyping PLA	Black, Blue, Red, White	50 MPa-37 MPa	2.9%-1.9%	55 °C
ULTEM 9085	Black, Tan	47 MPa-33 MPa	5.8%-2.2%	153 °C
ULTEM 1010	Amber (Natural)	64 MPa-41 MPa	3.3%-2.0%	216 °C

Advantages of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

Our industrial FDM printers are equipped with advanced technology to ensure precision, meeting tolerances of +/- 0.010″ for the initial inch and +/- 0.002” for each subsequent inch.

We have the capability to manufacture FDM parts with expansive build volumes of up to 24″ x 36″ x 36″.

FDM has an extensive range of real engineered thermoplastics, providing the highest level of variety.

FDM parts eliminate the need for tooling, resulting in a significant reduction in manufacturing lead time from weeks to days.

An FDM printer has the ability to create end-use parts whenever needed, which enhances productivity and expedites your time to market.

FDM printed parts are offered in a range of high-performance plastics suitable for applications that demand durability against various environmental conditions.

FDM Infill Choices

Solid

Light

Ultralight

Why choose mXY

Endless choices

Select from a wide range of options for your order, including various materials, finishes, tolerances, markings, and certifications.

User-friendly

Have your parts conveniently delivered to your doorstep, eliminating the need for sourcing, project management, logistics, or shipping.

Verified Network

Our certifications include ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, and AS9100D. Only the best shops that meet our standards become Suppliers.

FAQ’s

The time required to vapor smooth a part can vary due to various factors, but typically it is finished within a few hours.

Vapor smoothing is a great way to minimize layer lines and texture that occur during 3D printing. Alternatively, you can request vibro polishing for your 3D printed parts by contacting mxy@mxy.com.

Considering the end application of 3D printed parts is crucial when determining whether to utilize vapor smoothing. This technique effectively enhances the surface quality of parts by minimizing flaws, while maintaining the original material composition. Additionally, vapor smoothing can enhance a part’s durability against liquids.