Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) – also known as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) – is the most common and accessible 3D printing technology, especially for hobbyists, education, and prototyping.

How FDM Works:

1. Filament Feed:

• A spool of thermoplastic filament (like PLA or ABS) is fed into a heated print head (nozzle).

2. Melting & Extrusion:

• The nozzle heats the filament until it melts and extrudes it onto the build plate.

3. Layer-by-Layer Building:

• The nozzle moves in X and Y to draw a layer, then the print bed (or the nozzle) moves vertically (Z-axis) to build up layers.

4. Cooling:

• The material cools and solidifies almost instantly, bonding with the previous layer.