In this chapter, an overview of the basic principles of fused deposition modelling, commonly known as 3D printing technology, is presented. The chapter begins by introducing the holistic concept of additive manufacturing and its scientific principle as the technology for the modern and future industry. Then, the science of 3D printing is described. The applications of FDM in various fields are also highlighted with a focus on an interesting role the 3D printing technology is playing in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic. The chapter also gives a highlight of the parameters involved in fused deposition modelling of polymers and their basic interaction with the properties of the manufactured components. In relation to the process parameters, quality aspects of FDM products have also been briefly described in the chapter.Keywords Additive manufacturing • Defects, fused deposition modelling • Quality of prints • Surface roughness Additive ManufacturingAdditive Manufacturing (AM) involves classes of manufacturing technologies which build 3D components by adding a material layer upon a layer. The material could be a polymer, concrete, metal or even a composite. For a manufacturing process to qualify to be classified as an AM technique, it must involve the following three significant aspects.• The use of a computer and computer aided design (CAD) to create visual 3D models: There are several CAD tools that are used to generate 3D models some of which include AutoCAD, Inventor®, Solidworks®, CATIA TM and so many others. Some of these software are available open source or closed source [1]. The technologist or engineer involved in the field of additive manufacturing should understand how to use a few or many of the software for effective manufacturing through these technologies. Through these CAD tools, and based on the experience of the user, any form of complex 3D models of the products can be generated. The amount of material to be extruded by the 3D printer and the time it will take

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