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Fig 1.9 Sample of parts made by Fused Deposition Modelling
Out of all the Rapid prototyping processes, FDM has a relatively simple post
processing of the part. Most of the processes would need the separation of the base
material, or heat treatment in the case of three dimensional printing and SLA
compared to which the FDM has a very easy part removal process. This is mainly
done by leaving the part to harden in the open and then removing the part away
either straight from the bare hand or knife depending upon the bond between the
part and the supporting material. Only few other parts would need any other form of
minor finishing for using direct in applications. Figure 1.9 shows two parts made by
SLS and FDM.
For different applications of fused deposition modeling, there are different types of
Rapid prototyping machines available in the market to be chosen from. Stratasys is
one worlds leading companies in providing FDM systems and solutions to the
market. Stratasys's system brands are mainly - Fortus 3D Production systems,
Dimension 3D Printers and RedEye On demand services. Fortus 3D Production
systems are considered to be one of the most advanced and popular machines in
the world. Some of the Fortus series include Fortus 200mc, 360mc, 400mc and
900mc. which have high performance and have a wide acceptability range of
materials which can be used with these machines. Most of the materials largely
compatible and used with these machines are thermoplastic materials. These
machines are designed and manufactured for highest accuracy and repeatability and
hence provide the best surface finish possible. The top end model of Stratasys, the
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