Stratasys FDM 2000 Manual page 51

Reference
Applications
Injection Molding
The accuracy of the FDM hardware and the stability of the materials allow the models
to be used as masters for prototype injection molds, producing multiple accurate
shapes directly from CAD models.
Models of some components have been made in minutes from IGES, from .STL files,
and from digitized point data, reducing from months to days — even hours — the
time it takes to produce injection-molded components.
Fit, Form and Function Applications
A common frustration in product assembly occurs when components do not fit
together or when they do not fit into the housing planned for them. The FDM hard-
ware produces prototypes to check fit, form, and some function at less cost and in
less time than conventional processes.
Investment Castings
Investment castings are used in the medical field to make replacement limbs and
joints (typically machined from solid blocks or net castings of titanium). However, the
traditional methods for investment casting are time-consuming, because they often
require a hand-made master.
Hence, both fields need a way to speed the process of modeling, design revision, and
molding. Moreover, the high cost of labor for replacement joints makes prototyping
in a less time extremely desirable.
With the FDM system, the designer eliminates the hand-made master and goes
directly from the CAD design to an investment casting, using the model as the master
pattern.
The mold can be liquefied at a temperature of only 150 degrees Fahrenheit or 50
degrees Celsius, and the Stratasys investment casting wax can be milled, drilled,
carved, sawed, and tapped.
Applications Conceptual Models
10MAY01
A-3
Applications Manual