FDM is another method used to manufacture rapid prototypes and plastic models. It is one of the most commonly available prototyping and modelling methods available for engineers and designers, and is used across a wide range of fields.

The FDM process builds the prototype by jetting liquefied polymers in stereolithographic slices onto a Z-axis platform.

By repeatedly dropping the Z axis and adding more STL slices, a full 3D representation is built up.

The FDM machine accepts computer generated files and medical CT scans to produce finished prototypes quickly.

While FDM models can be lower in resolution compared to other processes we offer, they can be made in a variety of - real production - materials such as ABS, ABSi (translucent ABS), Polycarbonate (PC) and Polyphenylsulphone (PPSF).

All these have up to 85% of the strength of parts moulded in the same material, with all the temperature characteristics. We recommend FDM parts for high temperature applications and for large, one-off models, where detail levels are low or features are coarse.