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Revolutionary 3D printing technology allows manufacturers to quickly create components in small batches, while maintaining a high level of versatility. However, after the component is printed out it often requires finishing before being ready for use - this is especially true when the finished product will be used as a consumer good or if exposed to harsh conditions.
Finishing 3D-printed parts allows you to customize the product’s look and performance. Making these modifications can:
- Improve durability by shielding it from wear, corrosion, heat or other elements;
- Smooth out uneven surfaces;
- Alter size and shape;
- Increase electrical conductivity if needed.
Ultimately, finishing processes let you tailor your part according to its exact requirements.
When selecting surface finishing procedures for 3D-printed parts or traditional components, the unique characteristics of your component should be taken into account. Those features can include: strength, aesthetics and functionality to name a few; all of which can be affected by the manufacturing process used. Not only that but there are several ways in which using surface finishes may benefit you - from decreased wear and tear on tools as well as improved performance/functionality with these products. In either case, it is important to consider all aspects when making this decision.
Surface finishing is a crucial part of the 3D printing process, as it can drastically enhance your product’s functionality. Incorporating surface finishing into your production design should be done in advance before you have a finalized product.
Here are some of the popular surface finishing processes that work best with 3D-printed parts:
- Sanding
Sanding is a technique that many are familiar with, and it consists of using sandpaper or another abrasive material to remove any small blemishes from the surface. When 3D-printed objects come out of the printer, thin lines may be visible at each layer shift - which can easily take away from your product's appearance. Thankfully though, sanding will help smooth these imperfections and leave you with an even finish that looks great!
Sanding is a crucial step in achieving an even, smooth surface before applying any coating, but it can be very time consuming if done by hand. Furthermore, accessing small areas such as holes and undercuts can prove difficult without the proper tools. Nevertheless, sanding remains one of the most effective ways to prep surfaces for coatings!
- Plating
Plating is the process of layering a plastic or metal surface with a metallic coating through an electric current or chemical solution. With plating, you can use various metals such as nickel, copper and gold/silver for the first layer; then to follow up- platinum, chrome tin palladium and rhodium! Regardless of your desired outcome, there's always something suitable when it comes to plating.
Looking to spruce up your 3D-printed components? The right metal coating can turn ordinary plastic parts into something extraordinary! As different metals offer their own unique features, you'll want to consider which ones will best optimize the desired outcome. Whether it be improved durability or resistance against external factors like wear and tear - plating any type of metal onto plastic pieces has a variety of benefits that are sure to take your project's capabilities up a notch while protecting them from potential damage.
You may plate a metal part to achieve enhanced resistance against corrosion, oxidation, wear and more. Moreover, it bolsters the strength of your printed component. The process adds sophistication with its smooth gleaming finish which eliminates any inconsistencies in color or surface left from printing; properties like electrical conductivity and heat transfer are also acquired when you cover your substrate with metal plate layer as well!
- Heat Treatments
The 3D-printing process often involves heat treatments, such as shot peening, to harden and strengthen the material. Heat treatment has a range of advantages - it helps distribute tension evenly throughout an object's surface to minimize failures and increase density. Furthermore, this method assists with forming the final shape of your desired item!
After standard heat treatments that strengthen the component, some objects must be subjected to a process known as Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP). HIP reduces porosity and repairs any defects until it reaches full theoretical density. This is especially important if components will be used in industries with high-risk operations such as Aerospace, Marine, Medical or Power Generation; as fatigue failure can lead to disastrous consequences.
To start, heat treatment normally occurs in a vacuum furnace and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) usually happens within a pressure vessel. Yet there are some pieces of equipment that can carry out both tasks as well as incorporate fast cooling.
- Bead Blasting
To access those challenging-to-reach areas, bead blasting is the ideal solution. Through this procedure, you can utilize a spray gun to shoot finely reground thermoplastics onto the surface in order to remove any imperfections and produce a smooth finish - much like sanding does but far quicker! Not only will it improve your end product's aesthetic appearance with its matte finish, but it also acts as an efficient means of prepping materials before adding coating so that they adhere correctly.
In order to avoid dents in your material, use bead blasting and start out on a low pressure setting - slowly increasing if required. Too high of a pressure or lingering on one area for too long can obliterate ample amounts of the part you are working with.
- Shot Peening
Shot peening is a process akin to bead blasting, yet it has an alternate purpose. Instead of eliminating any undesirable imperfections from the surface, this technique primarily serves to enhance its strength and durability. With shot peening, high-pressure air blasts minuscule metal or plastic beads at the object's exterior in much the same way as with bead blasting; these particles then make shallow pits on its face under which compression strains form when they overlap. Therefore, shot peening increases the component’s ability to resist wear and tear while also increasing longevity.
The compressive stress, which reduces the size of an object, replaces tension in the item that would otherwise expand its length. The compression makes the surface more resilient and better able to defend itself against fatigue, wear & tear, cracking and cavitation erosion.
Conclusion
Surface finishing is a critical stage in the 3D printing process. By utilizing different techniques such as sanding, plating, heat treatments and bead blasting you will be able to improve your printed components durability and appearance while also adjusting its size and shape. The type of technique used should be based on the unique features of each part including material, thickness weight or intended use.
Incorporating surface finishing into the design process is essential for manufacturers who need to guarantee that their printed items meet all quality criteria and intended use requirements.
If you are looking for the best budget 3D printer look no further than what Snapmaker has to offer. Snapmaker has a wide range of 3D printers to choose from. Whether you are a beginner and want a simple printer or are looking for the best large 3D printer talk to us today!