Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a popular 3D printing technique that uses a thermoplastic polymer to create 3-dimensional objects. In this article, we will discuss the working principle of Fused Deposition Modeling, the types of products made by FDM, the advantages, and disadvantages of the FDM working principle. We will also look at the working principle of Direct Energy Deposition (DED) and the differences between FDM and DED.
Table of Contents:
I. Introduction
II. What is Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)?
III. Working Principle of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
IV. Products Made by Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
V. Advantages and Disadvantages of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
VI. Direct Energy Deposition (DED)
VII. Working Principle of Direct Energy Deposition (DED)
VIII. Differences between FDM and DED
IX. Types of Direct Energy Deposition Processes
X. Advantages and Disadvantages of Direct Energy Deposition (DED)
XI. 3 Disadvantages of FDM
XII. Conclusion
I. Introduction
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Direct Energy Deposition (DED) are two 3D printing techniques widely used in the manufacturing industry. FDM is a technique used to create 3-dimensional objects using a thermoplastic polymer, while DED uses a high-powered laser or electron beam to melt and deposit material onto a part. In this article, we will discuss the working principles of FDM and DED, compare their advantages and disadvantages, and look at the different applications of these two technologies.
II. What is Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)?
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a 3D printing technique that uses a thermoplastic polymer that is melted and deposited in layers onto a surface to build up 3-dimensional objects. The printer melts the thermoplastic polymer, which is then extruded through the print head in a thin strand. The strand hardens almost instantly as it is being laid down, and the print head moves in a series of paths to create the desired 3D object.
III. Working Principle of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
The working principle of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), as explained earlier, involves the melting and extrusion of the thermoplastic polymer onto the print bed in a thin strand. The print bed moves according to the instructions of the print head, thereby creating the desired 3D object layer by layer.
IV. Products Made by Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is commonly used in the creation of prototypes, models, and other small objects. It is also widely used in product design studios, where customized parts are created to meet specific design requirements. The technology is used in dental and medical implant manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive industries.
V. Advantages and Disadvantages of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
The advantages of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) include the ability to work with multiple materials, the ease of use of the technology and the availability of FDM printers. The technology also has disadvantages, including layer defects, low accuracy, and surface roughness in the final product.
VI. Direct Energy Deposition (DED)
Direct Energy Deposition (DED) is a 3D printing technique that uses a high-powered laser or electron beam to melt and deposit material onto a part. This technology consists of a high-speed laser or electron beam that melts the material, which then immediately solidifies to form the desired 3D object.
VII. Working Principle of Direct Energy Deposition (DED)
The working principle of Direct Energy Deposition (DED) involves the use of a high-powered laser or electron beam to melt and deposit material onto a part. The laser or electron beam generates intense heat that melts the material, which is then deposited onto the part. The process is repeated in a series of layers until the desired 3D object is formed.
VIII. Differences between FDM and DED
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Direct Energy Deposition (DED) differ significantly in the materials they use, the working principles, and the accuracy of the final product. While FDM uses a thermoplastic polymer, DED can work with different types of metal alloys and ceramics. FDM works by melting the thermoplastic polymer and extruding it through the print head in a thin strand, while DED uses a high-powered laser to melt the material and deposit it onto the part.
IX. Types of Direct Energy Deposition Processes
Direct Energy Deposition (DED) has different processes, mainly Powder-fed Directed Energy Deposition (PF-DED) and Wire-fed Directed Energy Deposition (WF-DED). Powder-fed Directed Energy Deposition (PF-DED) is used to create parts with complex geometries, and it can be used with multiple materials like ceramics, metals, and even thermoplastics. Whereas, Wire-fed Directed Energy Deposition (WF-DED) is used to create large parts, and it is mainly used in the aerospace industry to create aircraft structures.
X. Advantages and Disadvantages of Direct Energy Deposition (DED)
The advantages of Direct Energy Deposition (DED) include the creation of complex geometries with high precision, no need for extra support material, and the ability to work with a variety of metals and metal alloys. The disadvantages of DED include the high cost of the equipment and the low efficiency of the process.
XI. 3 Disadvantages of FDM
There are three main disadvantages of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology: print accuracy, surface finish, and the impact that the orientation of the part has on strength.
Print accuracy in FDM technology can be low due to the warping and shrinking of the material during the printing process. FDM technology also has surface finish issues, including rough and uneven surfaces. Lastly, the orientation of a part plays a crucial role in the strength of the final product. It means that adjusting the orientation of a part may help get rid of some of the defects caused by the printing process, such as layer delamination.
XII. Conclusion
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Direct Energy Deposition (DED) are two important 3D printing techniques. FDM technology uses a thermoplastic polymer, while DED technology uses a high-powered laser or electron beam to melt and deposit material onto a part. FDM technology is used to create prototypes, models, and other small objects. On the other hand, DED technology can create metal objects and complex geometries with high precision.
While both technologies have their advantages and disadvantages, determining which technology to use will depend on your specific project and what you want to achieve.
