FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
The most widespread and accessible technology. It melts thermoplastic filament and extrudes it layer by layer. Ideal for rapid prototyping.
How it works
1. Filament feeding
The thermoplastic material, in the form of a strand, is fed to the extruder through the cold zone of the print head, using a feeding mechanism (Direct Drive or Bowden).
2. Thermal plastication
The filament enters the heating block (Hotend), where it melts into a viscous state at a strictly controlled temperature (e.g. 200°C - 300°C), undergoing its phase transition.
3. Extrusion
The molten polymer is extruded through a calibrated nozzle (usually 0.4 mm) under pressure from the incoming unmelted filament.
4. Deposition
Parallel kinematics position the print head along the X and Y axes, depositing the strand onto the build plate. The plate is often preheated to improve adhesion.
5. Cooling and solidification
The deposited material is immediately cooled by a directed airflow, returning to a solid state before the next layer is laid down along the Z axis.
Tools that solve real problems
Dozens of tools used by professional 3D shops, inside your EduFacturing dashboard. Some are free with an account; the rest are part of the Pro plan.
Which material do I need?
Configurator across dozens of filaments and resins with live AWIN data. Find the right one by application, tech and properties.
Which printer should I buy?
Configurator over thousands of models: hobby to industrial. Recommendation matching your budget, with live AWIN pricing.
Which 3D tech fits my project?
Technology selector: FDM, SLA, SLS, MJF, SLM… Recommendation based on part, batch size and quality you need.
How do I make my part printable?
DfAM configurator: geometry analysis, recommendations for walls, overhangs, supports, orientation. Cut trial-and-error cycles.
Where do I start with 3D printing?
Personal start guide: based on your profile (hobby / business / education) finds the right steps, products and materials.
FDM vs SLA vs SLS: which one for me?
Side-by-side tech comparison: resolution, speed, strength, cost, surface finish. Decide on numbers, not marketing.
How much does my print cost?
Calculate cost in seconds: material, power, depreciation, labor, profit margin. Save quotes to your library.
My print keeps failing?
Defect diagnostic: symptom → cause → fix. Save hours of painful trial-and-error.
What slicer settings should I use?
223-parameter slicer reference + profile generator per printer + material. Drop straight into Cura/PrusaSlicer/Bambu.
I have a project: where do I start?
Structured plan: phases, materials, budget, timeline. Bill of Materials generated + client-ready export.
I want everything about one material
Interactive book per material: chemistry, mechanics, printability, post-processing, real cases. PLA ships first, more on the way.
How do I manage my material inventory?
Personal spool inventory: ratings, leftovers, side-by-side comparisons. Always know what you have.