The patent for the Fused Deposition Modelling, expired already 9 years ago. Since then with the advent of the Open Rep Rap Project, a myriad of 3D printers based upon Fused Filament Fabrication have been released to the market.  According to some analyst  more than 2m 3D printers will be sold in 2018, and the current number in use is almost impossible to be determined because the DIY movement has turned the delivery of 3D Printers just viral.

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Fused Filament Fabrication is the only process using traditional thermoplastic polymers and the technology is still needing improvements in materials processing properties to be able to reach an increasingly enhanced quality Performance.  In this session we will explore technical aspects that can be transferred to the Fused Deposition Modelling coming from the experts of Extrusion technology regarding the plasticating process of plastics, nozzle optimization, materials rheology, additives, pigments and compounding equipment.