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Additive Manufacturing: FFF

Fused Filament Fabrication

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FFF Printed Assembly Fixture; Printed in White PETG

Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) or Filament Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a very popular form of additive manufacturing used both in industry and by hobbyists.  It offers a wide variety of material options for artistic, industrial and functional applications.

AS&C FFF Machines:

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CreateBot F430 PEEK

High Tempurature FFF 3D Printer

The F430 equiped with dual extruders allowing for two-material components, melt away supports for higher quality prints.  More importantly, the high-temperature extruder (420°C) is capable of printing high-performance/engineering materials including PEEK, ULTEM, etc.

 

Print Volume: 15.75x11.80x11.80"

Dual Extrusion: 260°C, 420°C

Heated Bed: 120°C

Heated Chamber: 70°C

Creality Ender 3 V2

Larger Format FFF 3D Printer

The Creality Ender 3 V2 is an FDM 3D printer with a modest extruder temperature and larger build volume. It is capable of printing materials such as PLA, ABS, PET, PETG, PLA/PHA, TPU, PC, Cabon Fiber, Nylon, etc.  ... a good "workhorse" machine.

Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250 mm

Print Volume: 8.7 x 8.7 x 9.8"

Extrusion: 250°C

Heated Bed: 100°C

Chamber: Open Frame

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UP! Plus 2

Compact FFF 3D Printer

The UP! Plus 2 is a small FDM 3D printer great for printing small parts with lower temperature materials such as PLA, ABS and composits.  It serves to answer quick design questions without tying up other machines.

 

Print Volume: 5.3x5.5x5.5"

Extrusion: 300°C

Heated Bed: 50°C

Chamber: Open format.

FFF Material Options & Examples

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PLA

polylactic acid

PLA prints with accuracy, minimal artifacts and at a relatively low temperature.  One drawback is that it softens in mild heat and is slightly brittle at room temperature.

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PLA/PHA

polylactic acid / polyhydroxyalkanoate

PLA/PHA is a proprietary blend that has the positive properties of PLA but is less brittle.

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ABS

acrylonitrile butadiene styrene

Stronger than PLA, ABS is soluble in acetone and compatible with solvent-based adhesives.  Larger prints can warp upon cooling.

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PETG

polyethylene terephthalate + glycol

PETG prints very nicely and has a “waxy” feel.  However, nozzle build up can contaminate prints. 

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Nylon

Nylon 6, 6-6 & 12

Nylon is a very strong 3D printing material.  It is challenging to print as it is hygroscopic and prone to warping.  A benefit is that it can also be dyed.

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Flexible

TPU / polyurethane

Flexible materials range from vinyl soft to tire hard. 

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"t-glase"

Polyethylene terephthalate

"t-glase" is a Taulman brand polyethylene terephthalate.  It is very clear, hard and food safe.  Also known as PETT, PET-T or PET-"Taulman" formulation. 

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"n-Vent"

Proprietary polystyrene / polyester formulation

n-Vent is a proprietary formulation similar to high-impact polystyrene made with Eastman "Amphora."  It's characteristics are described as being between ABS and PLA.  It was developed through a partership between Taulman and Eastman Chemical Company. 

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PLA-Colors

ploylactic acid with specialty coloring

Many companies offer PLAs mixed with unique colors, glitter, mica, fluorescents, “dots,” and even felt – the list is ever growing.  These are used primarily for their aesthetic appeal.

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Infusions

ploylactic acid with property modifying infusions.

PLA infusions are blends of a material with PLA.  PLA acts more as a binder. Prints will have the look and feel of the infused material.  Examples include metals, woods, carbon fiber...  Prints can also be post-processed.  For example, wood infusions can be stained, iron infusions rusted - Iron infused PLA is even magnetic.

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Functional

primarily ploylactic acid with functional properties.

Functional materials have “dynamic” properties.  Examples include temperature-based color changing, UV exposure-based color changing, glow in the dark, conductive/static dissipative and other properties. 

Contact Access Systems & Circuits and learn how we can help.

Discussion of your goals and needs is complimentary.

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