Direct Digital Manufacturing service expanded

The service is based around Stratasys Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) technology. FDM is an additive manufacturing technology that produces strong accurate parts in functional thermoplastic materials. A choice of materials is available, including ABS, Polycarbonate, Polycarbonate / ABS blend, Polycarbonate ISO, ULTEM 9085 and Polyphenylsulphone. Material specifications are available on request. A range of machines are available in-house with build sizes up to 406 by 356 by 406 mm. Larger parts can be built by cutting the 3D data and bonding it post build. The great advantage of FDM technology is the durability of the parts, offering a level of performance similar to injection-moulded components and providing a real alternative to traditional manufacturing. DDM takes data from 3D CAD and turns it into a functional part as easily as a printer converts a word document into a printed page; it offers considerable advantages for low volume production; frequent design changes can be made at minimal cost; and custom modifications become economically viable. Another area where FDM parts can offer significant savings is in the production of fabrication and assembly tools. Additive manufacturing can produce tools in hours regardless of how complicated they are. A jig or fixture that may have required numerous parts can often be made in one piece. This flexibility makes it easier to design tools and build in greater functionality.