FDM Printing
FDM (Fused Deposition Material) printing is your traditional style of 3D printing where material is heated and deposited in layers to build up the object that is printed. There are a range of materials avaliable that can be used with varying applications and purposes. Below is a list of the main materials that we use.
🧵 PLA — Polylactic Acid
Uses: Visual models, prototypes, hobby prints, educational projects.
Why: Easy to print, low warping, smooth finish, eco‑friendly.
🔧 ABS — Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Uses: Functional parts, enclosures, mechanical components.
Why: High durability, impact resistance, good heat resistance (~100 °C).
🛡 PETG — Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol
Uses: Functional parts, containers, mechanical models, outdoor components.
Why: Strong layer bonding, chemical resistance, slight flexibility, minimal warping.
🌞 ASA — Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate
Uses: Outdoor parts, signage, weather‑exposed components.
Why: UV‑resistant ABS alternative with strong mechanical properties.
⚙️ Nylon (PA)
Uses: Gears, hinges, wear‑resistant parts, high‑strength mechanical components.
Why: Excellent toughness, flexibility, abrasion resistance; hygroscopic so requires drying.
🔍 Polycarbonate (PC)
Uses: Structural parts, automotive/aerospace prototypes, lenses.
Why: Extremely strong, impact‑resistant, high heat resistance (~140 °C).
🧩 TPU / TPE — Flexible Filaments
Uses: Phone cases, seals, gaskets, vibration‑damping parts, wearable components.
Why: Elasticity, varying hardness levels, great for rubber‑like parts.