FDM Technology3D print durable parts with real thermoplasticFDM Technology is a powerful Stratasys-patented additive manufacturing method.

FDM builds concept models, functional prototypes and end-use parts in standard, engineering-grade and high-performance thermoplastics. It’s the only professional 3D printing technology that uses production-grade thermoplastics, so parts are unrivaled in mechanical, thermal and chemical strength.

The Invention of FDM Technology

Stratasys founder Scott Crump invented FDM Technology more than 20 years ago, and Stratasys has continued

to lead the 3D printing revolution ever since, developing a range of systems that appeal to large manufacturers,

designers, engineers, educators and other professionals.

How FDM Works

3D printers that run on FDM Technology build parts layer-by-layer from the bottom up by heating and extruding

thermoplastic filament. The process is simple:

1. Pre-processing: Build-preparation software slices and positions a 3D CAD file and calculates a path to extrude

thermoplastic and any necessary support material.

2. Production: The 3D printer heats the thermoplastic to a semi-liquid state and deposits it in ultra-fine beads along

the extrusion path. Where support or buffering is needed, the 3D printer deposits a removable material that acts

as scaffolding.

3. Post-processing: The user breaks away support material away or dissolves it in detergent and water, and the

part is ready to use.

Learn more from our FDM FAQs and 3D Printing With FDM white paper.

FDM Benefits

The technology is clean, simple-to-use and office-friendly

Supported production-grade thermoplastics are mechanically and environmentally stable

Complex geometries and cavities that would otherwise be problematic become practical with FDM technology

FDM Thermoplastics

FDM Technology uses the same tried and tested thermoplastics found in traditional manufacturing processes. For

applications that demand tight tolerances, toughness and environmental stability – or specialized properties like

electrostatic dissipation, translucence, biocompatibility, VO flammability or FST ratings – there’s an FDM

thermoplastic that can deliver.

FDM 3D Printers and Thermoplastics

Learn more about 3D printers powered by FDM Technology and their compatible production-grade

thermoplastics.

3D Printer Compatible FDM Thermoplastics

Mojo ABSplus-P430

uPrint SE ABSplus-P430

uPrint SE Plus ABSplus-P430

Dimension 1200es

ABSplus-P430

Dimension Elite

ABSplus-P430

Fortus 250mc ABSplus-P430

Fortus 360mc ABS-M30, ABS-M30i, ASA, PC-ABS, PC, Nylon 12

Fortus 400mcABSi, ABS-ESD7, ABS-M30, ABS-M30i, ASA, PC-ABS, PC-ISO, PC, Nylon 12,ULTEM-9085, PPSF PPSU

Fortus 380mcABS-M30, ABS-M30i, ABS-ESD7, ASA, PC-ISO, PC, FDM Nylon 12

Fortus 450mcABS-M30, ABS-M30i, ABS-ESD7, ASA, PC-ISO, PC, FDM Nylon 12, ULTEM 9085

Fortus 900mcABSi, ABS-ESD7, ABS-M30, ABS-M30i, ASA, PC-ABS, PC-ISO, PC, Nylon 12,ULTEM-9085, PPSF PPSU