Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF): Difference between revisions

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{|class="infobox"
{| class="infobox"
!style="font-size:135%;text-align:center;" | Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer
!|
! style="font-size:135%;text-align:center;" |Hyrel System 30M (FFF) [https://sites.gatech.edu/mse-mill/sop/hyrel/ [SOP<nowiki>]</nowiki>]
! style="font-size:135%;text-align:center;" |Prusa i3 MK3S-MK4S (FFF) [https://sites.gatech.edu/mse-mill/sop/prusa-i3/ [SOP<nowiki>]</nowiki>]
|-
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|[[File:Ultimaker-052621.png|center|300px]]
|&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;||[[File:Hyrel-052621.png|center|270px]]||[[File:PrusaPrinter-052621.png|center|270px]]
|-
|-
|'''Build Volume''': 22.3 x 22.3 x 20.5cm
|'''Slicer Software''':||Slic3r (built-in)||PrusaSlicer
|-
|-
|'''Layer Height''': 0.06 - 0.15mm
|'''Build Volume''':||22.5(L) x 20(W) x 20(H) cm||25(L) x 21(W) x 21(H) cm
|-
|-
|'''Infill''': 10 - 20%
|'''Extruders''':||?||BondTech gears with E3D V6 hotend (max. 285°C)
|-
|-
|'''Filament Diameter''': 2.85mm
|'''Supported Filament''':||PLA, ABS, PEEK ||PLA, PETG, ASA, ABS, PC, CPE, PVA/BVOH, PVB, HIPS, PP, Flex, nGen, Nylon, Carbon filled, Woodfill
|-
|-
|'''Slicer Software''': Ultimaker Cura
|'''Filament Diameter''':||1.75mm||1.75mm
|-
|-
|'''Filament Types''': PLA, ABS
|'''Layer Resolution''':||?||0.05 - 0.35 mm
|}
{|class="infobox"
!style="font-size:135%;text-align:center;" | Hyrel System 30M 3D Printer
|-
|[[File:Hyrel-052621.png|center|300px]]
|-
|'''Filament Types''': PLA, ABS
|}
{|class="infobox"
!style="font-size:135%;text-align:center;" | Prusa i3 MK3S+ 3D Printer
|-
|[[File:PrusaPrinter-052621.png|center|300px]]
|-
|'''Filament Types''': PLA, ABS
|}
{|class="infobox"
!style="font-size:135%;text-align:center;" | Stratasys Dimension 1200es 3D Printer
|-
|-
|[[File:Dimension-062721.png|center|300px]]
|'''Extrusion Speed''':||?||?
|-
|-
|'''Build Volume''': 10" x 10" x 12"
|'''XY Precision''':||5 µ''m''||?
|-
|-
|'''Filament Types''': ABS with PLA supports
|'''Z Precision''':||1 µ''m''||?
|}
|}
__TOC__
==Introduction==
Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is a technology that enables the creation of prototypes in short timeframes by moving an extrusion nozzle horizontally and vertically<ref>''FDM 3D printing - Fused Deposition Modeling also know as FFF''. Tractus3D. (2020, July 16). <nowiki>https://tractus3d.com/knowledge/learn-3d-printing/fdm-3d-printing/</nowiki>.</ref>. It is also known as fused deposition modeling (FDM) which is trademarked by Stratasys. These machines are all built with a heated nozzle that extrudes thermoplastic filaments onto a build plate where the cross-sectional layers are applied individually to create the 3D object. The differences in the printers are the types of nozzles, the maximum heat of the nozzles and the bed, the size of the build plate, the size of filament allowed, and whether the printer is enclosed or not. These differences will impact the kind of material that can be printed and the size of the object as well as the detailing of the object. FFF 3D printers use thermoplastic filaments to build up layers of 3D objects by cooling the plastic so that it forms bonds with the previous layer. FFF printing has a larger variety of materials and colors and blends and requires little to no cleaning with lower material and machining costs.
[[File:FDM_printing_diagram.png|thumb|right|300px|1 - nozzle,                                                                2 - filament layers,                                                        3 - build plate<br>© User:Gringer / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0]]
==Principle==
The process for FFF printing starts with a digital design being uploaded to the computer on the printer. The computer then translates the object from the design into coordinates for the base and nozzle to follow. The nozzle is heated which melts the filaments then the nozzle extrudes the melted plastic onto the base plate layer by layer. As the nozzle moves, the plastic solidifies to form the object in 3 dimensions. The larger and the more complicated the object, the longer the process takes. The detail on finished prints is limited by the sizing of the nozzle, but it does not produce the finest of details. FFF printers work with the nozzle above the bed plate. Some printers have the nozzle move in both x and y directions (Ultimaker); some nozzles move in x and z directions (Prusa), and some move in the y direction only (Hyrel). Whichever direction the nozzle does not move, the bed moves. The filament needs to bond to a previous layer in order for the layers to be properly formed. This means that if the angle is greater than 45 degrees, support material is needed to build the layers. This computer knows to generate the supports for the object, and support material is removable after the print is finished. At the end of the process, the object can be removed from the build plate then the supports should be removed and the print is done.
[[File:FDM_driver.png|thumb|right|300px|1 - filament, 2 - extruder, 3 - nozzle, 4 - print, 5 - build plate<br>© User:Jona / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-4.0]]


Ultimaker 2<sup>+</sup>s use FDM technology for 3D printing. It is perfect for prototypes in PLA and ABS material. It also can create support material for overhanging parts.
==Why Choose FDM/FFF 3D Printing?==
===Material Variety===
FFF printing has a wide variety of materials available. There are composite blends and flexible materials along with many more options. Some materials include PLA, ABS, PETG, PEI, PEEK, TPU, HIPS, nGEN, Nylon, POM, Carbon Fiber PLA, and wood composites. These materials can also be used simultaneously which offers a wide range of flexibility in the process. There have also been an abundance of colors created which increases the variety in prints<ref>''FDM vs. SLA: Compare the Two Most Popular Types of 3D Printers''. Formlabs. (n.d.). <nowiki>https://formlabs.com/blog/fdm-vs-sla-compare-types-of-3d-printers/</nowiki>.</ref>.  


Hyrels can print a large range of materials. The Repetrel control software allows for great flexibility in varying processing parameters.  Print in just one material, or experiment with combinations; the heads are modular and each printer can support up to four heads at once.
===Prototyping===
FFF printed prototypes are generally ideal because they can undergo heat, chemical stress, and mechanical stress with little to no problems. The printing process also produces detailed prototypes that can be used to ensure fit and form for the real parts.


Prusa i3 is an FDM printer for 3D printing. It has a maximum print temperature of 300ºC so it is capable of a range of higher temperature materials. It has great reliability and produces higher resolution prints.
===Low Machine and Equipment Costs===


The Dimension 1200es is a large 3D printer for ABS filaments which uses soluble support technology (SST). By printing the main structure in ABS and all support structueres in PLA, supports can later be dissolved in a lye bath to yield a clean product.
FFF printing is cheaper than other 3D printing methods. The materials used are less costly than other printers along with the printers being more cost efficient. The basic printers can cost a few hundred dollars while the better printers can cost anywhere from $2,000-$8,000.


==Theory==
===No cleaning===
FFF processing creates a product that is ready for use immediately after print, unless there are supports which need to be removed before use. This makes the method efficient and less messy.


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|&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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|'''Build Volume''':
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|'''Filament Types''':
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==References==
<references />


==Ultimaker 2 Procedures==
[[index.php?title=Category:Equipment|proc]]
 
===Primary Use===
 
coming soon!
 
===Operating Principle===
 
coming soon!
 
===Safety Procedures===
 
The primary safety concerns with the Ultimaker 2 3D Printers are the heated nozzle and, by extension, the hot filament that the nozzle extrudes.  Long pants, close-toed shoes, and safety glasses should be worn at all times while operating the Ultimaker 2.  Care should be taken to avoid touching the nozzle and heated filament by hand; users should always use tweezers when handling heated filament.
 
==Troubleshooting==
 
Several problems can arise while operating the Ultimaker 2 3D printer. 
 
=== Bed Leveling ===
See our [[Bed Leveling Guide]].
 
===Print Adhesion===
 
Issues involving print adhesion typically arise within the first few minutes of printing.  Printed filament will remove itself from the print bed, resulting in the printer's inability to continue placing lines. 
 
# The first step when experiencing an adhesion issue is to stop the print
#* To Abort the print, spin the wheel to "Tune"
#* Select "Abort Print."  Be sure to confirm the command.
# Once the print has stopped, the next step is to apply an adhesive
#* Allow the print bed to cool before handling
#* Remove the remainder of the failed print from the print bed
#* Move the two metal clasps out of the way and remove the glass print bed from the printer
#* Spray the adhesive onto the print bed
#* Return the print bed to the printer.  Be sure to secure it with the metal clasps.
#* Restart the print
# If the additional adhesive does not fix the problem, increase the heat of the print bed.
#* During the print, spin the wheel to "Tune"
# If increasing the heat does not fix the problem, the next step is to add adhesion on the printed part
#* Return to Cura to re-slice the part
#* In Cura, be sure to check "Adhesion" before slicing.
#* Once slicing is complete, restart the print
 
===Filament Extrusion===
 
There are two ways we typically see a failure to extrude filament in the Ultimaker 2.  These are '''Filament Grinding''' and a '''Clogged Nozzle'''. Each of these require different solutions.
 
====Filament Grinding====
 
====Clogged Nozzle====
 
[[Category:Equipment|proc]]

Latest revision as of 10:04, 8 July 2025

Hyrel System 30M (FFF) [SOP] Prusa i3 MK3S-MK4S (FFF) [SOP]
                                       
Slicer Software: Slic3r (built-in) PrusaSlicer
Build Volume: 22.5(L) x 20(W) x 20(H) cm 25(L) x 21(W) x 21(H) cm
Extruders: ? BondTech gears with E3D V6 hotend (max. 285°C)
Supported Filament: PLA, ABS, PEEK PLA, PETG, ASA, ABS, PC, CPE, PVA/BVOH, PVB, HIPS, PP, Flex, nGen, Nylon, Carbon filled, Woodfill
Filament Diameter: 1.75mm 1.75mm
Layer Resolution: ? 0.05 - 0.35 mm
Extrusion Speed: ? ?
XY Precision: 5 µm ?
Z Precision: 1 µm ?

Introduction

Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is a technology that enables the creation of prototypes in short timeframes by moving an extrusion nozzle horizontally and vertically[1]. It is also known as fused deposition modeling (FDM) which is trademarked by Stratasys. These machines are all built with a heated nozzle that extrudes thermoplastic filaments onto a build plate where the cross-sectional layers are applied individually to create the 3D object. The differences in the printers are the types of nozzles, the maximum heat of the nozzles and the bed, the size of the build plate, the size of filament allowed, and whether the printer is enclosed or not. These differences will impact the kind of material that can be printed and the size of the object as well as the detailing of the object. FFF 3D printers use thermoplastic filaments to build up layers of 3D objects by cooling the plastic so that it forms bonds with the previous layer. FFF printing has a larger variety of materials and colors and blends and requires little to no cleaning with lower material and machining costs.

1 - nozzle, 2 - filament layers, 3 - build plate
© User:Gringer / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0

Principle

The process for FFF printing starts with a digital design being uploaded to the computer on the printer. The computer then translates the object from the design into coordinates for the base and nozzle to follow. The nozzle is heated which melts the filaments then the nozzle extrudes the melted plastic onto the base plate layer by layer. As the nozzle moves, the plastic solidifies to form the object in 3 dimensions. The larger and the more complicated the object, the longer the process takes. The detail on finished prints is limited by the sizing of the nozzle, but it does not produce the finest of details. FFF printers work with the nozzle above the bed plate. Some printers have the nozzle move in both x and y directions (Ultimaker); some nozzles move in x and z directions (Prusa), and some move in the y direction only (Hyrel). Whichever direction the nozzle does not move, the bed moves. The filament needs to bond to a previous layer in order for the layers to be properly formed. This means that if the angle is greater than 45 degrees, support material is needed to build the layers. This computer knows to generate the supports for the object, and support material is removable after the print is finished. At the end of the process, the object can be removed from the build plate then the supports should be removed and the print is done.

1 - filament, 2 - extruder, 3 - nozzle, 4 - print, 5 - build plate
© User:Jona / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-4.0

Why Choose FDM/FFF 3D Printing?

Material Variety

FFF printing has a wide variety of materials available. There are composite blends and flexible materials along with many more options. Some materials include PLA, ABS, PETG, PEI, PEEK, TPU, HIPS, nGEN, Nylon, POM, Carbon Fiber PLA, and wood composites. These materials can also be used simultaneously which offers a wide range of flexibility in the process. There have also been an abundance of colors created which increases the variety in prints[2].

Prototyping

FFF printed prototypes are generally ideal because they can undergo heat, chemical stress, and mechanical stress with little to no problems. The printing process also produces detailed prototypes that can be used to ensure fit and form for the real parts.

Low Machine and Equipment Costs

FFF printing is cheaper than other 3D printing methods. The materials used are less costly than other printers along with the printers being more cost efficient. The basic printers can cost a few hundred dollars while the better printers can cost anywhere from $2,000-$8,000.

No cleaning

FFF processing creates a product that is ready for use immediately after print, unless there are supports which need to be removed before use. This makes the method efficient and less messy.

                                 
Build Volume:
Filament Types:

References

  1. ↑ FDM 3D printing - Fused Deposition Modeling also know as FFF. Tractus3D. (2020, July 16). https://tractus3d.com/knowledge/learn-3d-printing/fdm-3d-printing/.
  2. ↑ FDM vs. SLA: Compare the Two Most Popular Types of 3D Printers. Formlabs. (n.d.). https://formlabs.com/blog/fdm-vs-sla-compare-types-of-3d-printers/.

proc