FDM (fused deposition modeling) 3D printing creates custom parts by heating and extruding thermoplastics layer-by-layer. You can use FDM for initial and functional prototyping and low volume production in a variety of strong plastic materials. While FDM is the most affordable 3D printing technology, it’s far more than a small-scale manufacturing solution. 3D printing with FDM means getting access to thermoplastics, including PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG and PEI, and a dimensional accuracy of ±0.5% with a lower limit of ±0.5 mm (0.0196”).

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is an industrial 3D printing process that is ideal for manufacturing end-use parts. In SLS, a laser selectively sinters polymer powder particles, fusing them together and building a part layer-by-layer. With some of the largest print beds, SLS machines can produce functional plastic parts with isotropic mechanical properties for detailed prototyping or low-volume production of end-use parts.  SLS is a cost-efficient production method, which our customers regularly choose for the most complex parts and those requiring extensive customization.