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FDM 3D Printing

Fused Deposition Modelling - The most versatile and cost-effective 3D printing technology for functional prototypes, jigs, fixtures, and production parts.

What is FDM Printing?

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) works by heating thermoplastic filament and extruding it layer by layer to build up your 3D model. It's the most widely used 3D printing technology, offering an excellent balance of cost, speed, and material properties.

Best For

  • Functional prototypes that need to be tested
  • Jigs, fixtures, and manufacturing aids
  • Large parts (up to 300x300x400mm)
  • Cost-effective production runs
  • Parts requiring specific material properties (heat resistance, flexibility, strength)
  • Enclosures and housings

Limitations

  • Visible layer lines on the surface
  • Support structures leave marks on overhanging surfaces
  • Lower detail resolution than SLA/SLS
  • Anisotropic strength (weaker between layers)
  • Not suitable for very thin walls (<1mm)

Specifications

Build Volume
Up to 300 × 300 × 400mm
Layer Height
0.1mm - 0.3mm
Tolerance
±0.2mm typical
Min Wall Thickness
1.0mm recommended
Min Feature Size
0.8mm
Lead Time
2-5 business days
Rush Available
Yes (+50%)

Available Materials

Choose from our range of FDM materials, each with unique properties for different applications.

PLA

Most Popular

Eco-friendly, easy to print. Ideal for prototypes and visual models.

  • Strength: Medium
  • Heat Resistance: 50°C
  • Flexibility: Rigid
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PETG

Versatile

Strong, impact-resistant, and chemical-resistant. Great all-rounder.

  • Strength: High
  • Heat Resistance: 70°C
  • Flexibility: Slightly flexible
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ABS

Durable

Heat and impact resistant. Ideal for functional parts.

  • Strength: High
  • Heat Resistance: 95°C
  • Flexibility: Rigid
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TPU

Flexible

Rubber-like flexibility. Perfect for gaskets, bumpers, and grips.

  • Strength: High (tensile)
  • Heat Resistance: 80°C
  • Flexibility: Very flexible (95A)
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Nylon (PA)

Industrial

Excellent mechanical properties, self-lubricating. For demanding applications.

  • Strength: Very High
  • Heat Resistance: 110°C
  • Flexibility: Slightly flexible
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ASA

UV Resistant

Like ABS but UV-stable. Excellent for outdoor use.

  • Strength: High
  • Heat Resistance: 95°C
  • UV Resistance: Excellent
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FDM Design Guidelines

Follow these guidelines to ensure your parts print successfully and meet your requirements.

Wall Thickness

Minimum: 1.0mm
Recommended: 1.5-2mm

Walls thinner than 1mm may not print reliably. For structural parts, use 2mm+ walls.

Overhangs

Max Angle: 45° from vertical
Bridging: Up to 10mm

Overhangs steeper than 45° require support structures which leave marks when removed.

Holes & Circles

Min Diameter: 2mm
Horizontal: May be slightly oval

Design holes 0.2-0.4mm larger than needed as they tend to shrink slightly during printing.

Fine Details

Min Feature: 0.8mm
Embossed Text: 1mm depth, 2mm height

Small details may not resolve clearly. Use larger features for important details.

Clearances

Moving Parts: 0.4-0.5mm
Press Fit: -0.1mm interference

For parts that need to fit together, allow 0.3mm clearance per side.

Threads & Inserts

Printed Threads: M6 or larger
Heat-Set Inserts: Recommended

Use heat-set brass inserts for reliable threaded connections. We offer this as a post-processing option.

Surface Finish Options

Choose your layer height for the right balance of quality and cost.

Draft (0.3mm)

Fastest print time, visible layer lines. Good for internal parts and rapid prototypes.

Base price

Fine (0.15mm)

Smoother surface, longer print time. Better for curved surfaces.

+15%

Ultra Fine (0.1mm)

Smoothest FDM finish. For high-quality visual models and fine details.

+30%

Post-Processing Options

Enhance your parts with our finishing services.

Support Removal

Careful removal of support structures with cleanup of contact points.

Included

Sanding

Progressive sanding to smooth layer lines. Available in medium or fine finish.

From £5/part

Priming

Filler primer applied to fill layer lines and prepare for painting.

From £8/part

Painting

Professional spray painting in your choice of colour with clear coat option.

From £15/part

Heat-Set Inserts

Brass threaded inserts installed for reliable screw connections.

£1.50/insert

Tapping

Machine tapping of holes for direct threading.

£2/hole

Lead Times

Our standard FDM lead time is 2-5 business days depending on part complexity and current queue.

Standard 2-5 business days Base price
Priority 1-2 business days +25%
Rush Same/next day +50%

Lead times shown are for production only. Add 1-3 days for shipping depending on your location.

Ready to Print?

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