Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), or Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), is an additive manufacturing process that belongs to the material extrusion family. In FDM, an object is built by selectively depositing melted material in a pre-determined path layer-by-layer. The materials used are thermoplastic polymers and come in a filament form.
FDM is the most widely used 3D Printing technology: it represents the largest installed base of 3D printers globally and is often the first technology people are exposed to. In this article, the basic principles and the key aspects of the technology are presented.
A designer should keep in mind the capabilities and limitations of the technology when fabricating a part with FDM, as this will help him achieve the best result.
We present our industrial grade FDM 3D Printers:
BigRep One
The BigRep ONE v3 was created to make industrial 3D printing for large-scale objects as easy as possible. Every detail has received our full expertise and experience — for better quality, higher speed, and increased safety. The open format modular print heads, in combination with a large flexible spool holder, provide the ideal 3D printer for manufacturing large-scale objects. The 1 mm nozzle brings the most detailed and precise BigRep ONE prints to date. The BigRep ONE works perfectly in automotive or aerospace industries, as well as entertainment, design or concept modelling. It brings the large-scale additive manufacturing on more affordable level in prototyping or designing. The German-engineered BigRep ONE is built to be a workhorse 3D printer that innovators can rely on.
| Build Envelope | 1005 x 1005 x 1005 mm |
| XY Resolution | 100 µm |
| Primary Markets | Aerospace, Automotive, Design, Manufacturing |
BigRep STUDIO
With the BigRep STUDIO, we introduce a workhorse printer that brings a new dimension to large-scale 3D printing. The industrial-grade quality machine has a print volume of 500 mm x 1000 mm x 500 mm that enables continuous printing of large objects in a space-saving package. Fitting easily through doors, the size of the STUDIO is optimal for setting up the printer in all workspaces. The dual extruder equipped with two 0.6 mm hot ends has been specially designed for speed and precision. The direct-drive all-metal hot end allows for printing of a larger variety of high-performance filaments.
| Build Envelope | 1000 x 500 x 500 mm |
| XY Resolution | 100 µm |
| Primary Markets | Aerospace, Automotive, Design, Manufacturing |
BigRep PRO
BigRep is pleased to introduce the latest addition to its range of additive manufacturing solutions – the BigRep PRO. German-made for speed and precision, the PRO is a machine for industrial solutions. BigRep has designed and manufactured a machine that prints with engineering-grade materials to ensure users can manufacture the applications they need, in large scale. The PRO is an industrial 3D printer that responds to market demands.
| Build Envelope | 1005 x 1005 x 1005 mm |
| XY Resolution | 100 µm |
| Primary Markets | Aerospace, Automotive, Design, Manufacturing |
BigRep EDGE
The BigRep EDGE is an industrial machine for the additive manufacturing of large-scale objects in demanding work environments. The EDGE uses high end thermoplastic materials for end-use products, functional prototypes and composite tooling. With a state-of-the-art Bosch Rexroth® motion control system, new Metering Extruder Technology (MXT®), a heated chamber, and an optimum design, the EDGE sets a new standard in additive printing. The BigRep EDGE was expertly designed and manufactured to print large industrial objects with high-end engineering-grade materials in a temperature-controlled environment. Its enormous build and advanced industrial features ensure big results and transformative value for businesses across industries.
| Build Envelope | 1500 x 800 x 600 mm |
| XY Resolution | 100 µm |
| Primary Markets | Aerospace, Automotive, Design, Manufacturing |
Bolt PRO
The Bolt Pro is an industrial machine, not just an electronics device. It is built for outstanding performances and long term reliable 3D printing. With advanced features it enables you to print your object in multi materials, swap your filaments mid print plus the Bolt Pro is suited for any office or industrial environment.
| Build Envelope | 330 x 320 x 205 mm |
| XY Resolution | 50 - 350 µm |
| Primary Markets | Aerospace, Automotive, Design, Manufacturing |