Download the FFF Desktops vs. Stratasys FDM 3D Printers Comparative Study

In a recent study conducted by Pragmatek Consulting, a range of fused filament (FFF or FDM) 3D printers were compared against different criteria such as reliability, accuracy and repeatability. An overview of the findings is presented here and the full report can be accessed below.

Study Parameters

The study compared the performance of five fused deposition modelling 3D printers for a variety of attributes, including reliability, production quality, and ease of use. Each 3D printer was used to print a range of design geometries using ABS material (except for one printer that uses a proprietary material rather than ABS), which were then analyzed for quantitative measurements such as Tensile Strength and Feature Position Accuracy. Reliability was also quantified by comparing the parts completed to parts attempted, and a visual inspection was also performed.

The Tests

Each 3D printer was tested to produce identical designs. Along with the accuracy of each printed piece, the study measured how often each build was successful, the number of parts completed compared to the number sent to print, the amount of time each printer required, and any downtime.

The F170 3D printer used in the study is part of the Stratasys F123 Series. Easy to operate and maintain, F123 Series printers deliver high levels of accuracy, repeatability and reliability.

The printed parts used in the test ranged from a simple ASTM dogbone to the vacuum sanding pad, complex duct and 4-piece interlocking geometry box shown here.

Reliability

The reliability of each printer was calculated as the percentage of parts completed out of parts attempted. The base number of builds was 18, though some printers required more attempts.

Parameter	Stratasys F123™*	Competitor 1	Competitor 2	Competitor 3	Competitor 4
Builds	18	21	23	18	22
Successful Builds	18	12	18	15	12
Parts Printed	77	90	98	77	79
Parts Completed	77	49	78	61	45
Reliability	100%	54%	79%	79%	57%
Print Time (hrs.)	146	335	233	211	276
Downtime (hrs.)	0	92	80	32	97.5

The Stratasys F123™ Series was the only model to print every part correctly the first time
The Stratasys F123™ Series printed the parts in significantly less time than the other models
Only the Stratasys F123™ Series performed without any downtime or stoppages

Part Quality

Accuracy — the part you print is the part you designed — is essential for all 3D printing, especially industrial-grade 3D printing. The study provided a comprehensive analysis of the quality of each part printed, expressing the performance as a percentage.

Parameter	Stratasys F123™*	Competitor 1	Competitor 2	Competitor 3	Competitor 4
Relative Dogbone Tensile Strength (average of X/Y, and Z)	100%	64%	82%	67%	66%
XY Dimensional Check Part (Points in spec)	95%	86%	62%	55%	39%
Interlocking 4-Piece Box (Dimensional accuracy)	92%	33%	13%	17%	Fail
Vacuum Sanding Pad (Design intent met)	100%	30%	Fail	50%	Fail
Complex Duct (Design intent met)	100%	70%	Fail	10%	Fail
Overall Quality	97%	57%	31%	39%	21%

The Stratasys F123™ Series achieved an overall quality score of 97%, while no other printer topped achieved more than 57%
Quote from the study: “The F170™ performed the best in the Fine Feature Detail Testing as measured by the dimensional accuracy of the parts and the reproduction accuracy to the CAD file.”
*Specific model used: F170™

You can access the complete details from the Pragmatek FFF Desktops vs. Stratasys FDM® 3D Printer Comparative Study and learn more about the reliable, accurate performance of F123™ Series 3D Printers by filling in your details below.