We are committed to serving the widest possible range of customers with affordable, flexible, high-quality and cost-effective solutions across their manufacturing value chain. Based on the needs of our industrial clients we have added Fused Desposition Modelling (or more commonly ‘FDM’) to our broad list of solutions. This addition enhances our ability to meet diverse customer needs, from rapid prototyping to producing end-use parts.

Understanding Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

FDM is an additive manufacturing process that builds objects layer by layer by extruding thermoplastic material through a nozzle. This method is renowned for its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to produce durable parts with complex geometries. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, and consumer goods have long utilized FDM for its reliability and material versatility.

Materials Available for FDM at Shapeways

To cater to a wide array of applications, Shapeways offers several thermoplastic materials for FDM printing:

  • ABS: A robust material known for its impact resistance and toughness, making it suitable for functional prototypes and end-use parts.
  • ASA: Similar to ABS but with enhanced UV resistance, ASA is ideal for outdoor applications where weatherability is crucial.
  • Polycarbonate: Offering high strength and heat resistance, PC is perfect for engineering applications requiring durable and heat-resistant components.
  • PET: A food-safe material with good mechanical properties, PET is commonly used for consumer products and packaging prototypes.
  • PETG: Combining ease of printing with chemical resistance, PETG is suitable for a variety of applications, including medical and food-safe products.

Each material brings unique properties to the table, allowing our customers to select the best fit for their specific project requirements. 

Advantages of Shapeways’ FDM Services

By integrating FDM into our suite of services, Shapeways provides several benefits:

  • Cost-Effective Production: FDM is known for its affordability, especially for low to medium-volume production runs, making it accessible for startups and large enterprises alike.
  • Material Versatility: With a range of thermoplastics available, customers can choose materials that best suit their project’s mechanical and aesthetic requirements.
  • Rapid Turnaround: FDM’s efficient printing process enables quick production times, accelerating the development cycle from concept to final product.

Applications of FDM Printing

The versatility of FDM makes it suitable for various applications across different industries:

  • Prototyping: Engineers and designers can quickly iterate designs, testing form, fit, and function before committing to mass production.
  • Custom Tooling: Manufacturers can produce custom jigs, fixtures, and tooling components tailored to their specific production needs.
  • End-Use Parts: FDM is capable of producing durable, functional parts for final products, especially in low-volume production scenarios.
  • Educational Models: Educational institutions can create tangible models for teaching purposes, enhancing the learning experience in fields like engineering and architecture.

Partnering with Shapeways for Your FDM Projects

Shapeways is committed to delivering high-quality 3D printing services, and the inclusion of FDM technology reinforces this commitment. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in selecting the appropriate materials and optimizing your designs for FDM printing.

To get started, visit our FDM printing page here and explore the materials we currently offer knowing that more materials and colors are available at request. We look forward to collaborating with you to bring your innovative ideas to life through our expanded 3D printing capabilities.

Jules Witte

COO