FDM Or SLA 3D Printing

3D printing is a rapidly growing technology with a wide range of applications. Two of the most popular 3D printing technologies are FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and SLA (Stereolithography).

FDM printing is a popular choice for prototyping and rapid manufacturing. It is relatively inexpensive and easy to use, and it can produce parts with a variety of materials. However, FDM prints can have visible layer lines and may require some post-processing to achieve a smooth finish.

SLA printing is a more precise and accurate 3D printing technology than FDM. It produces parts with smooth surfaces and fine details. However, SLA printers are more expensive than FDM printers, and they can only use resins as a printing material.

FDM 3D Printing

FDM printing is a popular form of 3D Printing that is used by many, from hobbyists to industry. The Technology used is the process of making physical objects by building up successive layers of material.

A material known as Filament is extruded through a hot-end mechanism. FDM printers produce a mechanical bond between layers. As shown in the diagram below , this process of layers being deposited is repeated until the model is done.

Material

FDM does produce complex and useful shapes that would otherwise be too costly to do otherwise. Cheap material and a fast process make FDM Printing attractive to many for prototyping and designing jigs to later use for repeating a step in a process. When it comes to quality , it depends on the type of filament that is being used.

PLA is widely used becuase of its anti-warping properties. ABS is also popular as it has heat resistance and strength but disadvantages noted are that it needs high temperatures to print well. Once you have selected the filament that will best solve the issue at hand another point is time. 3D Printing filament is inexpensive as the price has gone down over the years , making it affordable.

Speed

FDM printing is fast but the faster you print the more issues may occur. It is advised to print at a speed of 40 to 50mm/s but this is also dependent on the material used and the model specifications.

Post Processing of a FDM print can be a daunting task. There is a lot of sanding involved in the post procesing as to achieve a smooth finish. once you are done sanding there is the option of paint, airbrush or spray paint. This is assuming you want a paint finish.

Post Processing

The finished product when printing with a FDM printer will vary from print to print which makes FDM printing unreliable at times and the issues you may run into will require patience and problem solving.

Safety

FDM printing is relatively safe , there is a risk of the printing catching a light if left unattended to in a flammable environment. this risk can be avoided by not leaving your printer alone for long periods of time. Ensuring a clean and uncogestied work environment and monitoring your prints for failures. Leaving no loose or naked wires connected to the printer is this is a fire hazard. Beyond that FDM printing is safe.

SLA 3D Printing

SLA printing is a 3D printing technology that uses a laser to cure liquid resin into solid objects. It is a more precise and accurate process than FDM printing, and it can produce parts with smooth surfaces and fine details. However, SLA printers are more expensive than FDM printers, and they can only use resins as a printing material.

Here are some of the key features of SLA printing:

Accuracy and detail: SLA printers can produce parts with very high accuracy and detail. This makes them ideal for applications where precision is critical, such as jewelry making, dental implants, and medical devices.
Smooth surfaces: SLA prints have smooth surfaces with no visible layer lines. This makes them ideal for applications where a smooth finish is desired, such as prototypes and figurines.
Fast printing speeds: SLA printers can print parts quickly, even with complex geometries. This makes them a good choice for prototyping and rapid manufacturing.
Wide range of materials: SLA printers can use a variety of resins, each with its own unique properties. This makes them a versatile option for a wide range of applications.

Here are some of the disadvantages of SLA printing:

Cost: SLA printers are more expensive than FDM printers.
Resin safety: SLA resins can be toxic and hazardous to your health. It is important to use them in a well-ventilated area and to take precautions to avoid contact with your skin and eyes.
Post-processing: SLA prints often require post-processing to remove supports and achieve a smooth finish. This can be a time-consuming process.
Overall, SLA printing is a versatile and precise 3D printing technology that is ideal for applications where accuracy, detail, and smooth surfaces are critical. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of SLA printing before deciding if it is the right technology for your needs.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between FDM and SLA 3D printing :

So, which 3D printing technology is right for you?

If you are looking for an inexpensive and easy-to-use 3D printing technology for prototyping or rapid manufacturing, FDM is a good option. However, if you need high accuracy and detail for your prints, SLA is a better choice.

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing between FDM and SLA 3D printing:

• Your budget: FDM printers are typically more affordable than SLA printers.
• Your experience level: FDM printers are easier to use than SLA printers.
• The materials you want to use: FDM printers can use a variety of materials, including PLA, ABS, and nylon. SLA printers can only use resins.
• The accuracy and detail you need: SLA printers produce parts with higher accuracy and detail than FDM printers.
• The post-processing you are willing to do: FDM prints often require post-processing to achieve a smooth finish. SLA prints typically do not require post-processing.

I hope this blog post has helped you to decide which 3D printing technology is right for you. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.