Setup for FDM 320

3D printing

The process of producing a 3D object using a specialized tool that creates successive layers of material. 3D printing technically must involve the use of a print head or nozzle, but the term is often used interchangeably with additive manufacturing.

additive manufacturing

AM. The process of joining or solidifying materials to make an object based on a three-dimensional computer model. Additive manufacturing methods typically build up layers of material to create an object.

AM

additive manufacturing. The process of joining or solidifying materials to make an object based on a three-dimensional computer model. AM methods typically build up layers of material to create an object.

axes

An imaginary line or circle that is used to define the position of an object in space. The linear axes are X, Y, and z, and the rotational axes are often designated using the letters A, B, and C.

build area

The location and space within an additive manufacturing machine in which the part is actually constructed. Build areas in some additive manufacturing machines are open while others are surrounded by an enclosure.

build chamber

The area contained within an additive manufacturing (AM) machine where the part is actually built. Many build chambers are enclosed and heated to improve the safety and quality of the manufacturing operation.

build sheet

A thin piece of material that rests on the platen in the build chamber. Build sheets provide a flat surface that a part can temporarily adhere to during the part build, rather than adhering to the platen itself.

build tray

A thick sheet of material that rests on the platen in the build chamber. Build trays, which are typically sturdier than build sheets, provide a flat surface that a part can temporarily adhere to during the part build, rather than adhering to the platen itself.

calibration

The comparison and adjustment of a device with unknown accuracy to a device with a known, accurate standard. Calibration eliminates any variation in the device being checked.

caliper

A measuring instrument with a pair of jaws on one end and a long beam containing a marked scale of unit divisions. Calipers can measure both internal and external features.

Cartesian coordinate

A numerical system that describes the location of an object by expressing its distance from a fixed position along three linear axes. Cartesian coordinates are used to direct machine tool movements.

computer-aided design

CAD. Computer software used to create a 3D model of a part before it goes into prototyping or production. Computer-aided design models are converted to an STL format for use by additive manufacturing machines.

data

A collection of numbers, facts, and information about a process or product. Data can be created, communicated, and recorded by sensors in smart objects.

end-use

Designed to be used directly by a consumer or directly in another manufactured product. End-use products created by additive manufacturing (AM) include medical implants, custom dental devices, and camera equipment.

extruder

A nozzle or mechanism that shapes and dispenses semi-solid material. Extruders are used in fused deposition modeling (FDM).

FDM

Fused deposition modeling. An additive manufacturing process that builds parts through extruding successive layers of material. FDM is one of the most accessible and affordable types of additive manufacturing, though it creates parts with poor surface finish and has relatively low build speed.

fused deposition modeling

FDM. An additive manufacturing process that builds parts through extruding successive layers of material. Fused deposition modeling is one of the most accessible and affordable types of additive manufacturing, though it creates parts with poor surface finish and has relatively low build speed.

fused filament fabrication

FFF. An additive manufacturing (AM) process that builds parts through extruding successive layers of material, though it creates parts with poor surface finish and has relatively low build speed. Fused filament fabrication is one of the most affordable types of additive manufacturing and sometimes referred to as fused deposition modeling (FDM).

G code

A programming language that uses letters and numbers to form commands for machine tools. G code programs are used to direct tool movements in additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and hybrid machining.

hot-end jam

A clog in the FDM extruder. Hot-end jams typically occur when the FDM extruder is not hot enough to melt the material correctly.

Industrial Internet of Things

IIoT. A network of physical devices used in manufacturing that contain computing systems that allow them to send and receive data. The Industrial Internet of Things allows devices to exchange data and automate processes without human intervention.

job file

A program created using build processor software that controls the functions of an FDM machine. Job file formats may be specific to each machine.

lattice structure

A repeating, symmetrical pattern of crossing strips of material that leave diamond- or square-shaped gaps between them. Lattice structures provide excellent strength to a part.

lightweighting

In manufacturing, reducing the weight of a part or product without altering its function. Lightweighting results in parts and products that are less heavy than previous iterations.

machine-to-machine

M2M. The transfer of data between machines and the internet without human interaction. Machine-to-machine communication relies on sensors.

magnification

A device held in front of the eye to enlarge an object for the viewer. Magnification can be used when conducting a visual inspection.

material canisters

A container that holds thermoplastic filament. Material canisters are used with FDM machines.

micrometer

A U-shaped measuring instrument with a threaded spindle that slowly advances toward a small anvil. Micrometers are available in numerous types for measuring assorted dimensions and features.

offset

A numerical value stored in the FDM control that repositions machine components. The OFFSET key allows operators to enter tool length geometry and part zero locations.

personal protective equipment

PPE. Any clothing or device worn to minimize exposure to hazards or prevent injury. Common additive manufacturing (AM) personal protective equipment includes gloves, safety goggles, and nonflammable clothing.

platen

The flat, built-in surface of the build chamber. Platens typically hold a build sheet or build tray.

platen

The surface on which parts are built in an FDM machine. Platens typically hold a build sheet or build plate.

polyphenylsulfone

PPSF. A thermoplastic polymer with strong mechanical performance and high resistance to heat and chemicals. Polyphenynylsulfone is extremely resistant to corrosion.

pre-processing

A group of procedures that are used to clean, improve, or otherwise prepare a part for use by a manufacturer or consumer. Pre-processing for additively manufactured parts includes preparing a build sheet for printing in fused deposition modeling.

purge bucket

On an FDM machine, a container that receives waste collected from the debris chute. Purge buckets should be emptied daily.

purge chute

A channel in the the back of the build chamber used to dispense waste. Purge chutes on FDM machines typically guide waste to the bottom of the build chamber or purge bucket.

rapid prototyping

A product development technique in which additive manufacturing (AM) methods are used to create prototypes for a traditional manufacturing operation. Rapid prototyping allows engineers to quickly create a number of prototypes in a short time period, reducing lead time.

scraper

A tool with a handle and a wide, flat blade. Scrapers are used in additive manufacturing to separate plastic parts from build platforms.

sensors

A device within a device that detects a physical stimulus and turns it into a signal that can be measured or recorded. Sensors in smart devices make it possible for machines to communicate digitally.

setup

All the necessary preparation of tooling and fixturing that occurs on a machine before operation begins. Proper machine setup is an important factor in optimizing tool life.

smart manufacturing

An information-driven, event-driven, collaborative orchestration of business and factories across the value chain. Smart manufacturing uses sensors, data, and analytical models to automate and prescribe action for various processes and situations.

vacuum

A suction tool used to collect loose dust, dirt, and debris. A vacuum is also used to hold the build sheet in place on some FDM machines.

Z axis

The linear axis that represents the up-and-down motion of an object relative to the origin. The Z axis is the only vertical axis in the Cartesian coordinate system.