Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is an additive manufacturing technique used to produce parts and components out of thermoplastic materials It is similar to 3D printing, but on a larger scale. FDM uses a print head to deposit thin layers of plastic filament into a defined shape. The filament is heated and extruded through a nozzle, forming thin layers of the desired shape. With each successive layer, the part or component is slowly built up into the desired 3D object.
FDM is a cost-effective and efficient way to produce products of varying sizes and shapes. It is used in many industries, from automotive and aerospace to medical and consumer products. Some of the best examples of FDM-produced parts and components include:
1) Automotive parts: Due to its precise printing capabilities and low production costs, FDM is used to produce a variety of parts for the automotive industry, from intake manifolds and intake ports to valves, cooling systems, and more.
2) Aerospace parts: FDM is used to produce components for rockets and aircraft, such as engine housings, control surfaces, and more.
3) Medical parts: FDM is used to produce precise-fitting prosthetics and other medical components, such as braces and biomedical devices.
4) Consumer products: FDM is used to produce various types of consumer products, from toys and electronics to computer parts and appliances.
5) Prototypes: FDM is ideal for producing one-off and low-volume products for testing, such as design prototypes or concept models.
FDM is an increasingly popular manufacturing technique for creating a variety of products and components quickly and cost-effectively. It is used in a wide range of industries, and the examples listed above are a few of the best examples of how FDM can be used to produce precise and intricate parts on a large scale.