Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) uses a heated filament, like ABS or PLA, which is extruded through a nozzle that follows a programmed path to deposit material layer by layer on a build platform. The thermoplastics used in FDM create strong, durable parts that can endure mechanical stress. Its use of standard materials makes it a cost-effective choice for prototyping and low-volume production.

Advantages:

• High Strength and Durability: Nylon 6 offers excellent tensile strength and impact resistance, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications that require robust, long-lasting parts.
• Flexibility and Toughness: It provides a good balance of flexibility and toughness, allowing parts to endure mechanical stress and dynamic loads without breaking.
• Wear and Abrasion Resistance: Nylon 6 is highly resistant to wear and abrasion, making it perfect for parts that undergo frequent friction or repetitive motion, such as gears and bearings.
• Chemical Resistance: It offers resistance to a variety of chemicals, including oils, greases, and industrial solvents, allowing it to perform well in harsh environments.
• Lightweight: Despite its strength, Nylon 6 is lightweight, reducing the overall weight of parts while maintaining high durability.
• Temperature Resistance: It can withstand moderate heat exposure, making it suitable for parts that encounter elevated temperatures during use.

Disadvantages:

• Moisture Absorption: Nylon 6 is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which can affect its dimensional stability and mechanical properties. Parts may need post-processing treatments to minimize this effect.
• Printability Challenges: Nylon 6 can be more difficult to print compared to other FDM materials due to warping and adhesion issues. It often requires a heated bed and controlled printing environment to achieve optimal results.
• Lower Stiffness Compared to Other Materials: While Nylon 6 is tough and flexible, it is not as rigid as materials like ABS or PLA, which may limit its use in applications requiring high stiffness.
• Higher Cost: Nylon 6 is generally more expensive than basic 3D printing materials like PLA or ABS, increasing material costs for large-scale or high-volume prints.
• Temperature Limits: While it offers good heat resistance, Nylon 6 is not suitable for very high-temperature applications compared to materials like polycarbonate or ULTEM.