Control Parameters and Materials Selection Criteria for Rapid Prototyping Systems

Since the introduction ofrapid prototyping technology as a tool for time compression and concurrent engineering in the design and manufacturing process, many enhancements and refinements have been made based on the experience ofusers and manufacturers ofrapid prototyping equipment. These improvements contribute significantly to faster production of quality output from rapid prototyping systems. There are diverse control and material selection parameters that affect prototype models built using the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM®) process. This paper reviews the role of several ofthese parameters in the process. Data will be presented to help the user choose the appropriate material for specific applications including density, tensile stiffhess, flexural stiffhess, tensile strength, flexural strength, tensile ductility, shock resistance, and hardness.