FDM 3D Printing

What is FDM?

FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) is the most widespread 3D printing process. A plastic filament is heated, pushed through a nozzle, and deposited layer by layer until the finished object is formed. The process is ideally suited for functional parts, prototypes, and decorative objects.

Materials

Ideal for

Decoration, prototypes, everyday objects

Functional parts, containers, mechanical parts

Housings, replacement parts, technical components

Protective cases, gaskets, flexible parts

Layer Height & Quality

The layer height determines the surface quality:

• 0.1 mm – Very fine, longer print time
• 0.2 mm – Standard, good quality/time ratio
• 0.3 mm – Fast, visible layers

At Forma Studio, we print at 0.2 mm as standard.

Strength & Stability

The stability of a 3D printed object is determined by two factors:

Infill – determines how much material is used on the inside:

• 15% – Standard for decorative objects
• 40–60% – For mechanically stressed parts
• 100% – Maximum internal strength

Wall thickness – determines how thick the outer walls are:

• Thin (1–2 walls) – Lightweight, for decorative objects
• Standard (3–4 walls) – Good balance between weight and stability
• Reinforced (5+ walls) – For high mechanical or thermal stress

For maximum stability, we recommend a combination of high infill and reinforced walls.

Limitations of FDM Printing

✗ Very fine details under 1mm
✗ Parts subject to high mechanical stress
✗ Parts exposed to high temperatures
✗ Water-repellent objects (without post-processing)
✗ High-gloss surfaces