FDM – FFF – CFF
Technology and
Materials

FDM

FDM technology (Fused Deposition Modeling) is one of the most popular methods for 3D printing.This technology works by fusing and depositing a thermoplastic material filament, such as PLA, ABS, ASA or super polymers such as ULTEM, through a print head into a three-dimensional model.During printing, the material filament is extruded from the print head through a heated nozzle.The head moves along the x, y and z axes to deposit the molten material layer by layer, following the instructions in the G-code file.The FDM process offers several advantages, including the ability to create complex parts with good resolution and low cost.In general, FDM technology is used in a wide range of applications, including quick prototyping, production of functional parts, and model making for architecture and design.

ABS
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene is a tough, lightweight thermoplastic material commonly used for its impact and temperature resistance properties.
PC
Polycarbonate is a tough and transparent thermoplastic material that offers excellent mechanical, heat and impact resistance properties.
NYLON
It is a tough and flexible thermoplastic material with good chemical resistance and mechanical properties, ideal for functional applications and long-lasting parts.
ANTERO
It is a high-performance thermoplastic material, resistant to chemicals and high temperatures, suitable for aerospace and industrial applications.
ULTEM
Also known as PEI, it is a high-performance material with excellent chemical, thermal and mechanical resistance, used for components in aerospace and medical fields.
PPSF
Polyphenylsulfone is a high-performance thermoplastic material with strong chemical, thermal and mechanical resistance used in industrial and aerospace applications.
PEEK
Polyetheretherketone is a high-performance thermoplastic material with excellent chemical, thermal and mechanical resistance, used in medical, aerospace and automotive fields.
ST130
This is a soluble support material used for printing complex structures and intricate geometries that require support during the FDM printing process.
ASA
Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate is a weather-resistant thermoplastic material with good mechanical properties and UV resistance, ideal for outdoor applications.

FFF

Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is a widely used 3D printing technology that works by extruding thermoplastic filament.The FFF 3D printer works by heating thermoplastic filament to a temperature that makes it semi-liquid.Next, the material is extruded through a nozzle that moves along the X, Y and Z axes, depositing the material in a layer-by-layer fashion, according to the previously designed 3D model.Once deposited, the material cools and solidifies, forming the three-dimensional object.FFF is popular because of its wide range of usable materials, such as PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU and many others.This technology is suitable for creating prototypes, functional objects and even structural parts.

ABS
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene is a tough, lightweight thermoplastic material commonly used for its impact and temperature resistance properties.
PLA
Polylactic acid is a biodegradable thermoplastic material derived from renewable resources, with good mechanical properties and ease of printing, ideal for prototyping and decorative objects.
TPU
Thermoplastic polyurethane is a flexible elastomeric material with good abrasion and oil resistance properties, ideal for flexible components and gaskets.

CFF

Continuous Filament Fabrication (CFF) is a 3D printing technology that combines the extrusion of thermoplastic filaments with the incorporation of continuous fibers as a reinforcement.This process, developed by Markforged, makes it possible to produce objects with similar strength and stiffness to metals while maintaining the lightness of plastic materials.The CFF printer works by depositing thermoplastic filament and continuous fibers alternately and simultaneously, creating a composite structure that greatly increases the mechanical properties of the final piece.
CFF technology is particularly suitable for applications where high strength is required, such as aerospace, automotive, and robotics. Common materials used in CFF include carbon fiber reinforced nylon, glass or Kevlar.

ONYX
It is a composite material with a nylon matrix loaded with carbon microfibers, offering a balance of strength, stiffness and lightness.
ONYX FR
It is a flame-retardant composite material suitable for applications requiring fire and high temperature resistance.
CARBON FIBER
Carbon fiber offers exceptional strength and stiffness with a very light weight, ideal for high-performance and sports applications.
KEVLAR
It is a high-performance synthetic fiber with excellent abrasion resistance.
HSHT
FIBERGLASS
High-strength, high-temperature fiberglass, similar to standard fiberglass, but offers greater toughness and resistance to high temperatures, ideal for industrial and aerospace applications.
Technology and
Materials