Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.
Industry News
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) / Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)
How It Works:
A solid thermoplastic filament (e.g., PLA, ABS, PETG) is fed into a heated extruder.
The material melts and is deposited layer by layer onto a build platform via a nozzle.
Each layer solidifies as it cools, building the part based on a 3D CAD model.
Materials: Plastics like PLA, ABS, nylon, or composites (e.g., carbon fiber-filled).
Speed: Hours to days, depending on size and complexity.
Cost: Low—$10-$100 for small parts; desktop printers start at $200.
Pros: Affordable, widely available, good for functional prototypes.
Cons: Visible layer lines, moderate precision (tolerances ~±0.1-0.3 mm).
Applications: Concept models, jigs, fixtures, low-load parts.
Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM)
How It Works:
Sheets of solid material (e.g., paper, plastic, or metal foil) are stacked.
A laser, knife, or cutting tool trims each layer to the shape of the CAD design.
Layers are bonded with adhesive, heat, or pressure, and excess material is removed.
Materials: Paper (common, cheap), plastics, or thin metal sheets.
Speed: Fast for large, simple parts; takes hours.
Cost: Low to moderate—material is inexpensive, but setup can add cost.
Pros: Low cost, good for large models, minimal warping.
Cons: Limited material strength, less detail, waste from cutaways.
Applications: Visual models, casting patterns, architectural mockups.
Selective Deposition Lamination (SDL)
How It Works:
Similar to LOM, but uses paper sheets with adhesive selectively applied.
A cutter shapes each layer, and sheets are stacked and bonded.
Unbonded areas are removed, leaving the prototype.
Materials: Primarily paper, often with color printing for visual appeal.
Speed: Fast, especially for bulky parts.
Cost: Very low—paper and adhesive are cheap.
Pros: Inexpensive, eco-friendly, full-color options.
Cons: Weak parts, not suited for functional testing.
Applications: Concept models, educational displays.