FDM delivers cost-effective thermoplastic parts across the widest material range in additive manufacturing. The go-to process for large structural prototypes, jigs, fixtures and engineering-grade functional parts.
FDM extrudes thermoplastic filament through a heated nozzle, building parts layer by layer on a heated build plate. The process offers the widest material selection of any additive technology from commodity PLA through to high-performance PEEK and carbon fibre composites at the lowest cost per kilogram of deposited material.
✓ Widest Material Range
PLA, ABS, ASA, PETG, Nylon, PC, TPU, CF-filled and PEEK. Match material properties precisely to application requirements.
✓ Large Build Volumes
Build volumes up to 450 x 450 x 500 mm. Large structural housings, brackets and fixtures in a single print.
✓ Lowest Cost per Part
Most cost-effective additive process for large parts and low-detail prototypes where surface finish is not critical.
✓ Engineering-Grade Thermoplastics
Nylon, PC and carbon fibre composites for structural end-use parts, tooling inserts and high-temperature applications.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Max Build Volume | Up to 450 x 450 x 500 mm |
| Layer Thickness | 0.1 – 0.3 mm |
| Dimensional Accuracy | ±0.3 mm or ±0.3% |
| Min Wall Thickness | 0.8 mm (recommended 1.2 mm) |
| Nozzle Temperature | Up to 300°C (PEEK capable) |
| Standard Lead Time | 2–5 business days |
| Accepted File Formats | STL, STEP, OBJ, 3MF, IGES |
12 engineering-grade thermoplastics covering every application from concept models to high-performance end-use parts.
General-purpose biodegradable polymer. Excellent printability, low warping and good surface finish. Ideal for concept models, display parts and low-stress prototypes.
Standard2–3 daysGood impact resistance and machinability. ASA offers superior UV stability for outdoor applications. Common for functional prototypes and automotive parts.
Engineering2–3 daysExcellent chemical resistance and toughness. Low moisture absorption. Ideal for food-safe housings, medical enclosures and parts requiring good impact strength.
Engineering2–3 daysHigh toughness, excellent fatigue resistance and good chemical resistance. Used for functional gears, snap-fits, living hinges and structural end-use parts.
High Performance3–5 daysChopped CF reinforced nylon or PETG. High stiffness-to-weight ratio. Used for lightweight structural brackets, tooling and parts requiring superior rigidity.
High PerformanceCF-filled3–5 daysFlexible, rubber-like thermoplastic. Excellent abrasion and tear resistance. Used for gaskets, over-mould simulations, grips and flexible enclosures.
Flexible3–5 daysFull traceability from CAD upload to QA sign-off and dispatch.
Submit STL/STEP. Receive detailed quote with material recommendation within hours.
Orientation optimised for strength, surface finish and minimal support. Infill and layer height selected to specification.
Thermoplastic extruded layer by layer on heated build plate. Enclosed chamber for engineering-grade materials.
Supports removed and parting lines cleaned. Sanding, priming or painting applied as specified.
Dimensional check and job card sign-off. Packed and dispatched with full tracking.
We work with engineers, designers and procurement teams across Australia every day.
"I would highly recommend Pratik at 3D Printing — with his analytical mind he helped re-engineer a component for an electric scooter. The final design was cost effective, strong and an exact fit."
"Can't speak more highly of this Company. They overcame many difficulties through their tenacity and patience. I highly recommend this company for any 3D prototyping, design or development of your idea."
"Great service, quick turnaround — I needed parts scanned, a couple of design changes and printed. All done quickly, efficiently and A+ quality. Definitely recommend the team at 3D Prototyping."
"It was a pleasure dealing with 3D Prototyping. They are professional and their customer service is excellent. I would recommend these guys any time over any other players in this industry."
"This Company is good, efficient and easy to deal with. Their advice and knowledge around materials really helped us get what we needed. Great service provided. We will certainly use this company again."
Upload your CAD file and tell us what you need. We respond with a detailed quote — usually same business day.
FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) extrudes thermoplastic filament through a heated nozzle, depositing material layer by layer on a heated build plate. It is the most widely used additive process, offering the broadest material range and largest build volumes at the lowest cost per part.
FDM is the most cost-effective process for large, low-complexity parts. SLS and MJF produce stronger isotropic parts with better surface finish and no layer lines, making them superior for functional and end-use nylon parts. Choose FDM for large structural prototypes, jigs and cost-sensitive applications.
Standard: support removal and light sanding. Options include acetone vapour smoothing (ABS), primer and paint (RAL/Pantone matched), epoxy coating for watertight parts, tapping and insert installation, and CNC machining of critical surfaces.
STL is standard. We also accept STEP, OBJ, 3MF and IGES. Ensure models are watertight with wall thickness above 0.8mm. Our engineers review every file before quoting and flag any issues.
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