How it works:

A filament is pushed through a heated nozzle, melted, and deposited layer by layer onto the build platform. As it cools, it solidifies to form the part. The nozzle moves in the XY plane while the platform lowers step-by-step along the Z axis.

Where it’s used:

FDM is widely used for prototyping, tooling, and producing functional end-use parts in low volumes. It’s common in product development, automotive, and manufacturing environments for printing jigs, fixtures, and housings. Thanks to its affordability and ease of use, it’s also a go-to solution in education, maker spaces, and small businesses.