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FDM or UV resin 3d printing – which is better many ask. 3D printing has revolutionized the way we create and manufacture products, allowing for greater flexibility and customization in the design process. Two popular methods of 3D printing are FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and UV resin printing. Both methods have their own unique benefits and downsides, and are suitable for different types of applications.

FDM printing uses a filament made of thermoplastic material, which is heated and extruded through a nozzle to build up layers of the object. The filament is fed through the nozzle and extruded in a controlled manner, creating the shape of the object layer by layer. FDM printing is a relatively simple process that is widely used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.

UV resin printing, on the other hand, uses a liquid resin that is cured with UV light to solidify the object. The resin is layered in a controlled manner, and then cured by a UV light source. UV resin printing is commonly used in the dental and jewelry industries, as well as for creating intricate and detailed models.

Differences

One of the main differences between FDM and UV resin printing is the type of materials that can be used. FDM printing is typically limited to thermoplastic materials, such as ABS and PLA, while UV resin printing can use a wide range of materials, including photopolymers and epoxies. This allows for greater flexibility in the design process, as different materials can have different properties, such as strength, flexibility, and color.

Another difference is the level of detail that can be achieved with each method. FDM printing typically has a lower resolution and is not able to create as fine details as UV resin printing. This is because UV resin printing uses a liquid resin that can be cured to a very high level of detail, while FDM printing uses a filament that is extruded through a nozzle, which can cause some distortion in the final product.

Parts size

In terms of parts size, FDM printing is typically better suited for larger parts, as the filament is extruded in a controlled manner and can build up layers quickly. UV resin printing is better suited for smaller parts, as the liquid resin can be cured in a more precise manner, allowing for greater detail and accuracy.

One of the main benefits of FDM printing is its cost-effectiveness. FDM printing is relatively inexpensive, as the materials used are widely available and can be purchased at a relatively low cost. Additionally, FDM printers are widely available and are relatively easy to use, making them accessible to a wide range of users.

UV resin printing, on the other hand, is typically more expensive, as the materials used are typically more specialized and can be more expensive. Additionally, UV resin printers are typically more expensive than FDM printers and may require more specialized knowledge to operate.

Downsides

In terms of downsides, FDM printing can have issues with warping and shrinkage, as the filament is heated and cooled during the printing process. This can cause some distortion in the final product, and may require some post-processing to correct. Additionally, FDM printing is not as precise as UV resin printing and may not be able to create as fine details.

UV resin printing, on the other hand, can be more time-consuming, as the liquid resin needs to be cured with UV light. This can add additional time to the printing process, and may require some post-processing to correct. Additionally, UV resin printing can be more expensive than FDM printing, as the materials used are typically more specialized and can be more expensive.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both FDM and UV resin printing have their own unique benefits and downsides, and are suitable for different types of applications.

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