FDM Applications

Parts for Prototyping

Stratasys FDM gives you thermoplastic prototypes from CAD files that are used for conceptual prototyping, design verification and functional testing. The benefits of using a rapid prototyping (RP) system include streamlining the development process reducing costs and getting to market faster. By also manufacturing end-use parts such as jigs, fixtures (link to FAT PG) and production parts (link to EUP Page) can speed up the ROI on system purchase in weeks.

Parts for Fabrication and Assmebly Tools

Fabrication and assembly tools, such as jigs, fixtures, drill guides, and check gauges can be quickly and cost-effectively produced with Stratasys FDM additive fabrication systems — a process called direct digital manufacturing or rapid manufacturing. This process eliminates machining or tooling, shaving months off schedules and tens of thousands of dollars.

Parts for End-Use

For low-volume manufacturing, traditional methods of making production parts are evolving. Instead of machining parts or cutting a tool for molding, direct digital manufacturing (DDM) is a cost-effective and simpler alternative. Now the production process can start as soon as the part’s CAD file is sent to an additive fabrication machine.

FDM Advanced Applications

Stratasys Applications Engineers have developed unique applications for FDM parts. They are as simple as painting to more complex applications such as RTV Molding, Molded Paper Pulp and Sand Casting using FDM parts

Concept models
Visual aids for tooling, engineers
Sharing concepts with management, customers, marketing and manufacturing
Communication models between departments and companies
Samples for marketing and sales
Visual aids for getting accurate bids
Product research
Form and fit models
Functional testing in real-life conditions
Form and Fit testing

How are FDM prototypes used?

Pre-Process - Load the part’s CAD data into a Stratasys FDM system.
Manufacture Parts - Machine builds part one layer at a time in real thermoplastic material.
Remove Supports - Wash away or break away support material from the part.

The FDM Process

Low production volume
Complex part design
Near-term design changes are probable
High start-up investment is possible
Production begins before tooling is completed

When does it make sense to manufacture fixtures and assembly tools with Stratasys FDM?

Complex part design prevents you from traditional manufacturing
High start-up investment
Need for production to begin before tooling is ready (bridge tooling or bridge-to-manufacturing)
Near-term design changes are probable

When does it make sense to use Direct Digital Manufacturing?

FDM Advanced Applications

Sand Casting Using FDM Additive Fabrication Technology

Silicon / RTV Molding with Stratasys Soluble Support Cores

Extrusion Blow Molding

Molded Fiber / Paper Pulp Molds

Spin Casting using FDM parts

Inserting Metal in FDM Parts

Electroplating Using FDM Masters

Wood Grain and Leather Wrapping Finishing Technique

Examples

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