Parts from the 3D printer are fully functional straight away. Their natural surface has a sand-like, grainy appearance and feels slightly rough to the touch. This surface finish is not ideal for some applications. The surface can be refined with various post-processing methods.
Post-Processing Methods
Process description
Excess material is removed from the part using glass or plastic beads. Blasting with CO2 ice is also possible.
Properties
- Manual or automated cleaning
- No material removal
- Surface gentle treatment
Process description
The part is bombarded with a blasting medium, which compacts the surface and smooths out any roughness.
Properties
- Matte glossy, scratch-resistant and dirt-resistant surface
- No material removal
- Process does not depend on part geometry
Process description
The surface of the part is colored homogeneously in a water bath. Using pressure and heat, the colors penetrate into the plastic by means of a chemical reaction.
Properties
- Unlimited selection of colors for white parts
- No material deposit, part geometry is unchanged
- ISO certified colors
Process description
Using compressed air, the paint is atomized from a nozzle and applied to the part.
Properties
- Unlimited selection of colors for white parts
Process description
The surface of the part is chemically dissolved, which smooths it.
Properties
- Smooth, highly glossy, sealed and washable surface
- Suitable for hard and flexible plastics
- Injection molding look
Process description
The surface being flocked is coated with an adhesive to which fibers are then applied.
Properties
- Velvety-soft surface
Process description
Small pores on the part are sealed by coating it with an aqueous solution.
Properties
- Smooth and sealed surface
- Modified part properties, e.g. water-tightness, UV and chemical resistance
Process description
The part is coated with a thin layer of metal using electrolysis.
Properties
- Metallic appearance
Process description
The coating material is first evaporated, then condensed onto the part, covering it with a thin layer of metal.
Properties
- Metallic appearance
- Vacuum-based coating
Process description
A coating is created by depositing a solid component from the gas phase onto the heated surface of a part using a chemical reaction.
Properties
- Coating of complex three-dimensional surfaces
- A variety of chemical reactions enables a large number of different materials to be used
