Melting nozzle (FDM)

Fused deposition modelling (FDM) in additive manufacturing

How a metal 3D printer with fused deposition modelling works

A metal 3D printer for fused deposition modelling works according to a layer-by-layer build-up process in which metal filaments are used. These filaments usually consist of a mixture of metal powder and binding material. The FDM process begins with the filament being heated and extruded through a nozzle to build up the component layer by layer. The print head moves according to the coordinates specified by the software to precisely create the shape of the component.

In fused deposition modelling, a CAD model of the desired component is first created and loaded into the printer software. The model is broken down into thin layers, which the 3D printer then applies one after the other. During the printing process, the filament is heated in the melting nozzle and transformed into a mouldable mass that is applied to the build platform. The layers adhere to each other due to the heating and harden as soon as they cool down.

After the actual printing process, however, another crucial step is necessary: sintering. In this step, the component is heated in an oven so that the binding material burns and the metal powder melts together through diffusion. Sintering gives the component its final density and strength.

One advantage of fused deposition modelling for metal is that the process is less complicated and less expensive than other metal 3D printing processes such as lasering or electron beam melting. However, the metal content in the filament is lower, which is why post-processing, especially sintering, is crucial in order to achieve the desired mechanical properties. FDM for metal is particularly suitable for prototypes and small production runs, where material costs and flexibility are the main considerations.

Other types of metal 3D printers

On machineselection.com you will find an overview of all 3D metal printing technologies. Other processes include:

Components of an FDM printer

A metal 3D printer for fused deposition modelling is made up of the following components: The extruder feeds the metal filament into the heated melting nozzle or print nozzle, where it is melted and extruded onto the build platform. The print nozzle is the centrepiece of the printer and determines the precision and thickness of the layers.

In fused deposition modelling, the build platform is often heated to prevent the material from warping and to ensure good adhesion during the printing process. Stepper motors move the print head along the X, Y and Z axes to apply the material precisely in the desired shape. A CNC control unit controls these movements and ensures the exact realisation of the print file.

In addition, many FDM printers have a cooling system that cools the print quickly so that clean layers are formed. A filament storage unit or filament spool ensures a continuous supply of material during the printing process.

Fused deposition modelling in industrial production

There are various metal filaments available for 3D printers with FDM, which consist of a mixture of metal powder and a polymer binder. Common metal filaments include stainless steel, bronze, copper and aluminium. Stainless steel filaments offer high strength and corrosion resistance, while bronze and copper are characterised by their electrical conductivity and aesthetic properties. Aluminium is used due to its lightness and high strength.

FDM Fused Deposition Modelling is used in numerous industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical, education and consumer goods manufacturing. It is used for prototyping, customised components and small batch production. FDM is often a cost-effective and flexible solution for customised design requirements.

Examples of workpieces produced with FDM:

Automotive industry: dashboard components, brackets, covers and ventilation parts
Aerospace: housings, brackets, ventilation ducts and sensor covers
Medical technology: implant models, surgical tools, prostheses, dental models and medical housings
Education: Architectural models, mechanical components, anatomical models and teaching aids Prototypes for teaching
Consumer goods manufacturing: mobile phone cases, toys, jewellery, household items and customised accessories

Success factors in fused deposition modelling

The printing temperature plays a decisive role in melting nozzle technology with FDM, as too low or too high a temperature can impair the adhesion of the layers. The layer height and printing speed influence the precision and surface quality of the component. It goes without saying that the choice of material and its correct storage are important in order to avoid moisture. The calibration of the build platform and the use of support structures also contribute to accuracy and stability. In addition, post-processing by sintering and grinding, if necessary, has a significant influence on the final result.

Leading manufacturers of 3D printers for FDM

In our manufacturers directory, you will find companies that produce metal 3D printers for fused deposition modelling.

The following terms are often searched for: 3D Systems Fused Deposition Modelling, Colibrium Additive Fused Deposition Modeling, DMG Mori Fused Deposition Modeling, EOS GmbH Fused Deposition Modeling, Grob Fused Deposition Modeling

Search now on maschinenauswahl.de for the metal 3D printer for fused deposition modelling that suits your production requirements.

This article answers the following questions:

What is fused deposition modelling?
What is the definition of fused deposition modelling?
What does fused deposition modelling mean?
What is the principle of Fused Deposition Modelling?
What does 3D fused deposition modelling stand for?
What is a fused deposition modelling machine?
Which device does Fused Deposition Modelling FDM 3D printing work with?
How does fused deposition modelling technology work?
How does the fused deposition modelling process work?
What are the advantages of fused deposition modelling?

With regard to fused deposition modelling materials, this article only deals with the processing of metal filaments.

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