Fused Deposition Modelling
(FDM) Printing
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing offers immense value by producing robust, functional parts with remarkable dimensional stability and accuracy. Arguably the best choice for a wide variety of applications ranging from delicate and intricate models, to rugged and heavy duty composite components. FDM technology provides engineers and designers with rapid and efficient production capabilities. Whether for prototyping or end-use applications, FDM empowers the creation of high-quality, functional parts, meeting the needs of various industries.
What is Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)?
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing provides an extensive selection of advanced thermoplastics that are on par with those used in traditional manufacturing processes. This makes it an excellent choice for producing end-use parts, conducting real-world material property tests, or creating durable jigs, fixtures, and templates for production purposes. With 14 distinct 3D printed materials available, Forge Labs’ FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) technology offers remarkable versatility, making it well-suited for a range of specialized applications. These applications include medical devices, electric static dissipative parts, or high-temperature scenarios where Flame, Smoke Toxicity (FST) ratings are of utmost importance.
When you require robust, functional parts that exhibit dimensional stability and can tolerate visible layer lines, FDM 3D printing services are the way to go. Forge Labs utilizes Stratasys Fortus series machines renowned for their exceptional accuracy, part repeatability, and one of the largest commercially available printing envelopes in the market. With these machines, you can manufacture large and intricate designs using a wide range of thermoplastics, all in a single build. The maximum build volume of 36 x 24 x 36 inches ensures that even complex projects can be accommodated. The strength and precision delivered by Stratasys FDM machines set them apart as the preferred choice for achieving remarkable results.
ABS
ABS is a cost effective, durable and versatile material with good impact and chemical resistance. It is widely used in prototyping and functional parts.
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is great for functional parts and prototypes. ABS matches approximately 80% of the properties of injection-molded products but is rigid and inflexible. Due to the FDM printing process, design freedom is limited and layer lines are visible. ABS allows for a wide variety of color and use cases.
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 32 - 45 MPa |
| Tensile Modulus | 1618 - 2030 MPa |
| Tensile Elongation | 4.8 - 20% |
| Flexural Strength | 60 - 76 MPa |
| Flexural Modulus | 1800 - 2070 MPa |
| HDT (0.45 MPa) | 81 - 85°C |
| HDT (1.8 MPa) | 80 - 95°C |
Highlights
Impact Resistant
Functional
PETG
Widely used for durable and functional parts; it combines strength, chemical resistance, and low cost.
PETG is plastic that possesses strength and durability similar to that of ABS. The material is both chemical and wear-resistant so it can also be used in outdoor and food-related settings. PETG is made with one of the most common synthetic materials – polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is modified with glycol. As a result, PETG is much tougher, stiffer, clearer, and easier to use in 3D printing than PET.
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 45 - 75 MPa |
| Tensile Modulus | 1615 - 3100 MPa |
| Tensile Elongation | 2 - 5% |
| Flexural Strength | 68 - 72 MPa |
| Flexural Modulus | 1900 - 3000 MPa |
| HDT (0.45 MPa) | 70 - 80°C |
| HDT (1.8 MPa) | 60 - 70°C |
Highlights
Strong
Chemical resistant
Functional
ASA
Strong and UV-resistant material that works great in outdoor applications and can be used as a direct replacement for ABS
ASA (acrylic styrene acrylonitrile) is great for outdoor-use production parts that benefit from the strength and UV resistance of this material. From electrical housings and brackets to sporting goods and automotive prototypes, ASA’s ease of use also makes it a great choice for iterative design and offers superior aesthetics and consistently high-quality parts. The material's UV resistance makes it well-suited for end-use parts for outdoor commercial and infrastructure use and the material is often used throughout prototyping phases.
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 32 - 49 MPa |
| Tensile Modulus | 1726 - 2379 MPa |
| Tensile Elongation | 2.5 - 9% |
| Flexural Strength | 60 - 78 MPa |
| Flexural Modulus | 1814 - 3200 MPa |
| HDT (0.45 MPa) | 96 - 102°C |
Highlights
Impact Resistant
UV resistant
Polycarbonate
Industrial-grade thermoplastic with high heat resistance and strength
Polycarbonate (PC) is a material renowned for its impact resistance and toughness. PC is a lightweight yet strong thermoplastic, ideal for a wide range of professional and industrial applications. It’s best for designing complex parts that offer good thermal, mechanical and optical properties.
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 57 - 64 MPa |
| Tensile Modulus | 1700 - 2480 MPa |
| Tensile Elongation | 4 - 10.8% |
| Flexural Strength | 84.3 - 95 MPa |
| Flexural Modulus | 1685 - 2300 MPa |
| HDT (0.45 MPa) | 113 - 143°C |
| HDT (1.8 MPa) | 93 - 142°C |
Highlights
Impact Resistant
Heat resistant
Functional
Carbon Fiber PETG
Stronger and stiffer than normal PETG
Carbon-reinforced PETG contains High-Modulus Carbon Fiber embedded in the filament, which makes the material even stiffer and stronger than normal PETG.
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 56 - 58 MPa |
| Tensile Modulus | 5230 - 6600 MPa |
| Tensile Elongation | 2.3 - 3% |
| Flexural Strength | 78 - 82 MPa |
| Flexural Modulus | 5700 - 5790 MPa |
| HDT (0.45 MPa) | 77°C |
Highlights
Strong
Chemical resistant
Durable
Functional
Carbon Fiber Nylon
Strong and heat-resistant material, commonly used to print strong and functional parts
Carbon-fiber reinforced nylon (PA-CF) is a composite of PA12 and carbon fiber. Inheriting the advantages of low water absorption from PA12 and high-performance carbon fiber, it offers excellent mechanical and thermal properties that can be maintained well even when the prints get wet. Higher Z adhesion layers and flexibility make it ideal for creating engineering parts such as functional prototypes, machining fixtures, injection molds, jigs, and low-volume production parts
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 75.6 - 110 MPa |
| Tensile Modulus | 6797 - 8109 MPa |
| Tensile Elongation | 1.9 - 3.4% |
| Flexural Strength | 142 - 173.7 MPa |
| Flexural Modulus | 8000 - 10620 MPa |
| HDT (0.45 MPa) | 120 - 215°C |
| HDT (1.8 MPa) | 143 - 196°C |
Highlights
Impact Resistant
Chemical resistant
Functional
Nylon
Great for functional parts and prototypes that require toughness and resistance to temperature & impact.
Nylon (PA) is a fantastic all-round material with high precision and properties. Thanks to its strength and flexibility it is extremely versatile and suitable for functional parts, prototypes, and many more applications.
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 37 - 66.2 MPa |
| Tensile Modulus | 1282 - 2223 MPa |
| Tensile Elongation | 8 - 25% |
| Flexural Strength | 67 - 97 MPa |
| Flexural Modulus | 1276 - 2206 MPa |
| HDT (0.45 MPa) | 84 - 97°C |
Highlights
Strong
Heat resistant
Impact resistant
Functional
Materials Guide
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