1.FDM - Fused Deposition Modelling

 In FDM, a strand of material (in this case: thermoplastics) is deposited in layers to create a 3D printed object. During printing, the plastic filament is fed through a hot extruder where the plastic gets soft enough that it can be precisely placed by the print head. The melted filament is then deposited layer by layer in the print area to build the work piece.

FDM USES

 1. Rapid prototyping.
 2. Building low-cost models.
 3. prototyping.
 4. scale modeling /architechture modeling.
 5. Special Gift For Anyone as you wish to give the shape or names.
 6. concept 3D modeling.
 7. Great for hobbyists and makers.
 8. When precision and surface finish isn’t crucial.

2. SLA-Stereolithographic Apparatus

 SLA is the abbreviation for Stereolithographic Apparatus, or simply stereolithographic. Like FDM, SLA is an additive method: Models are built layer by layer. SLA, however, uses a curable photopolymer – typically a liquid resin – that is hardened by applying focused light or UV light (this process is called curing). SLA printers usually build the models from top to bottom, the build platform lifts the model upwards, out of the resin bath.

 The light source is either a laser or a digital projector (the technology is often called DLP – Digital Light Processing). Lasers "draw" the layers in DLP, an entire slice (a two-dimensional layer) of the model is projected at once into the resin bath.

 Laser SLA printers are usually slower than DLP models because of the small surface of the laser beam. In DLP printers, each layer hardens faster as the entire image of one layer is projected onto the resin. Moreover, DLP projectors are more reliable and easier to maintain than customized laser systems as the projectors use the same technology as business and home cinema projectors. The printed models have to undergo a post-processing process, though.

 Overall, there are less budget-friendy SLA machines than FDM 3D printers. Resin printers can often be found in a professional context, although the prices came down in the last years.

Stereolithographic Apparatus

 When intricate details and/or a very smooth surface finish is crucial.

  Scale modeling /architecture modeling.

  When strength and durability of the model is not crucial (models made from resin may suffer when exposed to the sun for extended periods).

  Special gift for anyone as you wish to give the shape or names.

  For creating moulds for casting to facilitate mass-production (e.G. By jewellery /toy makers Dental /ear cover).