FDM
Technology
We print with Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) — the most widely used process and the best fit for functional parts.
How FDM works
A plastic filament is pushed through a hot nozzle, melts, and draws one horizontal slice of the part on the build plate. The plate drops by one layer height and the next slice is drawn on top, until the part is complete.
This explains three things: a part is stronger within a layer than between layers, sloped surfaces show slight steps, and print time depends on both the amount of material and the number of layers — not on size alone.
What you control
- Layer height
- Finer = smoother surface, longer print
- Infill
- Higher = stronger, heavier, more expensive
- Material
- Sets heat resistance, strength and flexibility
- Finishing
- Sanding or painting after printing
For most parts, a 0.2 mm layer and 20% infill is the right balance.
Which material when
| Material | Best for |
|---|---|
| PLA | The default choice for most parts: high detail, clean surfaces, lowest cost. Not suitable for parts exposed to temperatures above 55°C or prolonged direct sunlight. |
| PETG | Tougher than PLA with better heat and moisture resistance, and slight flexibility that prevents sudden fracture. Good for enclosures, functional parts and outdoor use. |
| ABS | Heat resistant to roughly 95°C, and can be acetone-smoothed or machined. Requires an enclosed printer; slight warping is possible on large parts. |
| ASA | The best choice for outdoor use in the UAE climate: UV resistant, does not yellow or become brittle in the sun, with durability close to ABS. |
| TPU 95A (Flexible) | Rubber-like and flexible, returns to shape after compression. Suited to gaskets, bushings, grips and protective covers. Prints far slower than rigid materials, so costs more. |
| Nylon Carbon Fibre (PA-CF) | The strongest here: high stiffness, wear and heat resistance, excellent dimensional stability. For load-bearing mechanical parts and functional spares. Surface is naturally matte and slightly rough. |