Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)

A 3D printing process, in which a wire or cord-like plastic (filament) is constructed layer by layer into a three-dimensional object. An essential component of an FDM printer is the extruder - a nozzle into which the material is fed. In doing so, the material is heated, melted and applied to the build platform under even pressure. After one layer is printed, the platform lowers by exactly one layer of thickness and the next layer of the 3D component is applied. This process is repeated until the object has been completed. For models with overhangs or undercuts, FDM requires additional support structures that are removed during the subsequent finishing process.