What is FDM 3D Printing?
FDM 3D printing is a process that builds parts by extruding a melted plastic filament onto a build plate one layer at a time. The filament is fed through a heated nozzle that moves according to the part geometry. The plastic solidifies as it cools down and bonds with the previous layer. FDM 3D printing is the most well-known and widely used 3D printing technology, especially for hobbyists and makers.
What is DLP 3D Printing?
DLP 3D printing is a process that creates parts by curing a liquid photopolymer resin with a UV light source. The resin is contained in a vat with a transparent bottom, where a digital micromirror device (DMD) projects an image of the part cross-section onto the resin surface. The UV light hardens the resin in the exposed areas, forming a solid layer. The build platform then moves up and repeats the process until the part is complete. DLP 3D printing is a fast and high-resolution 3D printing technology, often used for dental, medical, and jewelry applications.
FDM vs DLP: Pros and Cons
FDM and DLP 3D printing have different strengths and weaknesses, depending on the application and requirements. Here are some of the main pros and cons of each technology:
FDM Pros
- FDM printers are cheaper than DLP printers
- FDM has a wider range of material colors and types, including flexible and composite filaments
- FDM parts are stronger and more durable than DLP parts
- FDM printers can produce larger prints than DLP printers
FDM Cons
- FDM has a lower resolution and surface quality than DLP
- FDM parts have weak interlayer adhesion and are prone to warping and cracking
- FDM printers require more maintenance and calibration than DLP printers
- FDM printing is slower than DLP printing
DLP Pros
- DLP has a higher resolution and surface quality than FDM
- DLP parts have isotropic properties and are more accurate than FDM parts
- DLP printers require less maintenance and calibration than FDM printers
- DLP printing is faster than FDM printing
DLP Cons
- DLP printers are more expensive than FDM printers
- DLP has a limited range of material colors and types, mostly transparent or translucent resins
- DLP parts are brittle and sensitive to UV light degradation
- DLP printers have a smaller build volume than FDM printers
Conclusion
FDM and DLP 3D printing are both useful technologies that can create different types of products. The choice between them depends on factors such as cost, speed, quality, strength, size, and material. For example, if you want to print a large prototype that requires some strength, you might prefer FDM over DLP. On the other hand, if you want to print a small model that requires high detail and accuracy, you might choose DLP over FDM.