FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) process in 3D Printing - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What does FDM stand for in 3D printing?

FDM stands for Fused Deposition Modeling, a popular 3D printing process where melted material is deposited layer by layer to build an object.

beginner

How does the FDM process create a 3D object?

FDM creates objects by heating a plastic filament until it melts, then extruding it through a nozzle to lay down thin layers that harden and stack to form the final shape.

beginner

Name two common materials used in FDM printing.

Two common materials used in FDM printing are PLA (Polylactic Acid) and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene). Both are thermoplastics that melt when heated and solidify when cooled.

intermediate

What is the role of the heated nozzle in FDM printing?

The heated nozzle melts the plastic filament so it can be precisely deposited layer by layer. It controls the flow and placement of the material to build the object accurately.

intermediate

Why is layer-by-layer deposition important in FDM?

Layer-by-layer deposition allows complex shapes to be built from the bottom up. Each layer bonds to the previous one, creating a strong, detailed 3D object without the need for molds or cutting.

What is the main material form used in FDM printing?

A Plastic filament

B Liquid resin

C Metal powder

D Paper sheets

FDM uses plastic filament that is melted and extruded to build objects layer by layer.

Which part of the FDM printer melts the filament?

A Heated nozzle

B Build platform

C Cooling fan

D Filament spool

The heated nozzle melts the filament so it can be deposited precisely.

What happens after each layer is deposited in FDM printing?

A It changes color

B It evaporates

C It melts again

D It hardens and bonds to the previous layer

Each layer hardens and bonds to the layer below, building the object up.

Which of these is NOT a common FDM material?

A PLA

B Resin

C ABS

D PETG

Resin is used in other 3D printing methods, not FDM which uses thermoplastic filaments like PLA, ABS, and PETG.

What is a key advantage of FDM printing?

A Requires no electricity

B Uses metal powders

C No need for molds or cutting

D Prints only flat objects

FDM builds objects layer by layer without molds or cutting, allowing complex shapes.

Explain the basic steps of the FDM process in your own words.

Think about how the printer uses plastic and builds the object from the bottom up.

Describe why FDM is a popular 3D printing method and mention common materials used.

Consider what makes FDM accessible and what materials it uses.