3D Printing

3D printing

3D printing is an additive manufacturing process that allows components to be made without molds by printing with molten plastic materials.

Filaments of plastic are melted in an extruder and the melt strands are then deposited using computer control. In subsequent printing cycles, further layers are applied on the first layer and they fuse permanently together. The three-dimensional, resilient part thus grows step by step until it is completed. Compared to injection molding, complex shapes and undercuts can be easily produced. However, 3D printing is significantly more time-consuming and therefore usually economical only for prototypes or small batches of components.

FKuR’s biobased 3D filaments range includes Bio-Flex® PLA blends and natural fiber reinforced Fibrolon® 3D biodegradable grades that combine high dimensional stability and flexibility with excellent flow properties, enabling the production of components with minimal shrinkage and no warping.