Fused Deposition Modeling

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What Does Fused Deposition Modeling Mean?

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a type of additive manufacturing technology that enables the construction of three-dimensional objects, prototypes and products through a computer-aided or driven manufacturing process. It is used in 3-D printing or the design of solid models and prototypes in a layered or additive approach.

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FDM is also known as fused filament fabrication or fused deposition method.

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is trademarked by Stratasys Inc., a leader in building FMD-based 3-D printers.

Techopedia Explains Fused Deposition Modeling

FDM is primarily a rapid prototyping technique that enables the quick, clean and cost efficient development of prototypes and small functional components. It works through a CAD/CAM based design diagram, which is fed to an FDM system. The system sends design-specific commands to a controller head, which releases the melted thermoplastic accordingly. This process is repeated layer by layer based on specific design coordinates. The molten material becomes a solid object as soon it is exposed to a cooler environment.

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Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert
Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert

Margaret is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical business audience. Over the past twenty years, her IT definitions have been published by Que in an encyclopedia of technology terms and cited in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine, and Discovery Magazine. She joined Techopedia in 2011. Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages.