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--- kb:theory:manufacturing:3d_printing:fdm [2025/04/24] – created robertkuyper
+++ kb:theory:manufacturing:3d_printing:fdm [2025/04/24] (current) – robertkuyper
@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
 ====== FDM ======
 Fused deposition modeling [FDM] is a form of 3D printing where plastic in the form of filament or pellets is extruded through a nozzle and deposited in layers to form the final product.
+Functionally, FDM is limited in the possible quality of prints. Surfaces are frequently possible to print within 0.1mm or ~0.005in, but surface quality is much lower. This means parts are nominally correct when averaged over a few square centimeters like when measuring with calipers, but in reality the parts do not operate like a plastic part machined to a 0.1mm tolerance. This surface quality is limited by the layer height, the effect of the nozzle dragging across top surfaces, and shrinkage. A typical layer height is 0.2mm with a lower bound of around 0.1mm. Even at this extrusion height, the surface will retain artifacts from the plastic squishing out of the nozzle which creates very fine rounded corners.
+Achievement of maximum resolution on an FDM printer is dependent on the quality of filament, the speed of the print, and the calibration of the machine. With a well calibrated printer and a quality filament, much of the quality comes down to speed. Maximum accuracy occurs at lower speeds. This produces a balancing act between acceptable accuracy for the application and time spent printing. Technologies like input shaping can allow for printing at much higher speeds without negatively impacting quality.
 ===== Useful Resources =====
   * [[https://ellis3dp.com/Print-Tuning-Guide/|Printer Tuning Guide]]

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