Which direction does the build platform move during the FDM process?

The build platform in the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) process typically moves in the Z-direction. This is because the Z-axis is traditionally associated with vertical movement in 3D printing. As each layer of material is extruded, the build platform lowers or raises precisely to position itself for the next layer to be deposited.

The Z-direction movement is crucial in ensuring that the correct layer height is maintained, which directly affects the precision and quality of the final printed object. The other directional options—X and Y—relate to the movements of the print head or nozzle, which moves horizontally across the build platform, laying down material layer by layer. The diagonal movement is not a standard operation in FDM since the layering is strictly managed along the established axes for accuracy and repeatability.