Question 1

What should I upload for an FDM quote?

Accepted Answer

Upload 3D CAD (STEP preferred) and any drawings defining CTQs (datums, fits, hole requirements, sealing faces), cosmetic faces and allowed witness zones, load cases, environment (temperature/chemicals), target quantity, and any requirements for inserts, post-machining, or inspection documentation.

Question 2

How do you manage strength in FDM parts?

Accepted Answer

We plan orientation and perimeter/infill strategy around load paths because FDM properties are directional. For torque/clamp loads, we often recommend heat-set inserts or post-machined interfaces rather than relying on printed threads.

Question 3

How do you control warp on larger parts?

Accepted Answer

We manage warp by combining geometry review, orientation, thermal strategy, and material selection. For warp-prone families (ABS/PC), we plan features and build settings to reduce thermal gradients and curl.

Question 4

Can you hit tight fits and hole tolerances with FDM?

Accepted Answer

Critical fits often require secondary ops. We print with a tolerance strategy and then drill/ream or lightly machine CTQ holes and datums when repeatable assembly alignment is required. Use our ***ISO 2768 chart***(/resources/charts/iso-2768-tolerance-chart) and ***tap drill calculator***(/resources/tools/drill-tap-chart) when specifying mating features.

Question 5

Do you support inserts and secondary ops?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We support heat-set inserts, tapping (program-based), drilling/reaming, and light machining of critical datums, plus controlled surface prep and finishing options as specified.

Question 6

What drives cost in FDM printing?

Accepted Answer

Key drivers include material type, part volume, orientation/support requirements, print time, post-processing steps, and whether CTQ features require inserts or machining.

Fused DepositionModeling (FDM)

Fused DepositionModeling (FDM)