Fused Deposition Modeling Additive Manufacturing

Course Number:
MFG 130
Transcript Title:
Fused Deposition Modeling Additive Manufacturing
Created:
May 01, 2026
Updated:
May 01, 2026
Total Credits:
3
Lecture Hours:
0
Lecture / Lab Hours:
66
Lab Hours:
0
Satisfies Cultural Literacy requirement:
No
Satisfies General Education requirement:
No
Grading Options
A-F, P/NP, Audit
Default Grading Options
A-F
Repeats available for credit:
0

Course Description

Familiarizes students with Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printers: their functions, relevant design applications, choosing between and working with a variety of FDM materials, performing root cause analysis for print failures, and developing design solutions to enable successful and repeatable print programs and filament profiles. Introduces FDM printer hardware, maintenance, and subcategories of FDM printer motion systems. Includes how to identify and fix common hardware and software issues, and how FDM printer technology has changed and improved over time. Audit available.

Course Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Identify models with geometry and production requirements best suited to FDM manufacturing techniques.

  2. Demonstrate appropriate machine operation, maintenance, and safe material handling.

  3. Measure FDM printed parts and modify printing parameters to meet tolerance specification.

  4. Calculate ideal printing settings for different part applications and production speeds.

  5. Apply g-code as it relates to FDM 3d printing.

Suggested Outcome Assessment Strategies

The determination of assessment strategies is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: writings (journals, self-reflections, pre writing exercises, essays), quizzes, tests, midterm and final exams, group projects, presentations (in person, videos, etc), self-assessments, experimentations, lab reports, peer critiques, responses (to texts, podcasts, videos, films, etc), student generated questions, Escape Room, interviews, and/or portfolios.

Department recommended assessment strategies:

  • Lecture and in-lab coaching and direct instruction.

  • Full class demonstration of skills.

  • Written exams

  • Student proficiency through demonstration of learned strategies and skills in industry standard environments.

  • Job readiness based on performance.

  • In class lab experiments and testing using the scientific process with written result reporting.

Course Activities and Design

The determination of teaching strategies used in the delivery of outcomes is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: lecture, small group/forum discussion, flipped classroom, dyads, oral presentation, role play, simulation scenarios, group projects, service learning projects, hands-on lab, peer review/workshops, cooperative learning (jigsaw, fishbowl), inquiry based instruction, differentiated instruction (learning centers), graphic organizers, etc.

Department required activities: Cooperative learning, lecture-lab based experiential learning, guided learning pathways, peer review, hands-on lab, simulation, simulation scenarios, oral presentations.

Course Content

Outcome #1: Identify models with geometry and production requirements best suited to FDM manufacturing techniques.

  • Filament properties and choices
  • Interface Material Properties
  • Cavities
  • Overhangs
  • Z axis tear optimization
  • Specifications and end-user requirements to
  • Choosing FDM over other processes

Outcome #2: Demonstrate appropriate machine operation, maintenance, and safe material handling.

  • Fix Extruder
  • Nozzle swapping
  • PTFE Tubing
  • Belt replacements
  • Servo Replacements
  • Drying filament
  • Storing filament
  • Respool filament
  • Preparation for printing
  • Preventative maintenance
  • Data Preparation

Outcome #3: Measure FDM printed parts and modify printing parameters to meet tolerance specification

  • Precision measuring for FDM
  • Printing slicer / software changes for accuracy
  • Data preparation for FDM
  • Analysis of print data for better results
  • Calibration techniques for different parameters
  • Successful tolerance geometry

Outcome #4: Calculate ideal printing settings for different part applications and production speeds

  • Using the iterative process identify print problems
  • Generate appropriate calibration prints to minimize material waste when creating print profiles
  • Optimize calibrations to create efficiency in print parameter creation
  • Consider print parameters and how they relate to production speed and the tradeoffs to be taken in to account as these changes are made

Outcome #5: Apply g-code as it relates to FDM 3d printing

  • G-Code Functions
  • M-Code Functions
  • Useful code modifications and hand coding
  • Similarities in coding between different CNC equipment
  • Differences in coding between different CNC equipment

Suggested Texts and Materials

Use of listed Texts/Materials is not required unless so noted.

Department Notes

Safety glasses are required at all times in the manufacturing lab, and are provided for students. Students may also purchase their own safety glasses from a local supplier. Long pants and closed toed shoes are required in the manufacturing labs at all times. Appropriate clothing must be worn to work in the lab (no synthetic materials, ect.). Safety requirements are covered prior to work in the lab.