The After-Processing for 3D Printing Prototype

After finishing the 3D printing process, it needs an after-process for the 3D Printing parts, which means all work after the parts are out of the printer, including but not limited to cleaning, surface polishing, reannealing, and even coloring.

The after-process technique for 3D printing is as diverse as the printing process. And each one has its requirements. The after-processing is also a crucial part of 3D printing.

The main functions of after-processing are to improve the performance and aesthetic of the parts, such as to have a polishing surface or to reanneal to increase the strength and change the conductive character. Although some of the after-processing effects can be done during 3D printing, most are based on other manufacturing methods instead of additive manufacturing. The additive manufacturing process has different after-processing techniques. For example, FDM parts need a different way from metal for after-processing. It is an important part you have to consider during 3D printing.

The Methods of After-Processing

There are various after-processing methods for 3D printing parts. Mainly the following ways below.

Washing

The washing of parts covers sealing off, rinsing, clearing, air-blowing, etc.

The goal of it is to remove the extra powder or resin materials. The time for it is up to the printing process. For powder sintering, it is a time-consuming process that will increase the manufacturing time.

Annealing

Annealing improves the part’s temperature and mechanical performance, including heat resistance, ultra-violet light, and even strength and heat-stable. It is mainly related to the polymer material. For resin technical, there are designs of solidifying machines that can be directly used for special printers. For powder or metal 3D printing techniques, it has to be debonded first and then sintered with a suitable oven. Thus, the annealing technology is often for changing the final performance and function of the parts.

Surface Optimization – Polishing and Coloring.

The polishing surface includes all the methods – rubbing down, polishing, Sand Blasting, and MillinG. At present, many techniques can modify the parts’ surface by removing or adding materials — rubbing can make the surface smooth, and painting adds a layered material to get a better light.

Coloring refers to painting and dyeing. How to choose the method is up to the painting material. Dyeing is much more for the technique based on polymer powder, while painting is more for parts made by FDM.

The Advantages and Limitations of 3D Printing After-Processing

The after-processing is a crucial step in improving visual effects and final quality. Due to the adoption of different techniques, the part can fully play its ability even to be sold as a terminal part.

It allows you to modify and correct shortcomings by wiping off the printing surface for disguising. In addition, some plastic parts have a similar character to the metal with after-processing, which can reduce the costs of parts.

The after-processing have limitation and challenges the market wants to break through. The main one is the time cost. According to the annual research from PostProcess Technologies, 53% of interviews point out that the biggest challenge is the time after processing. These steps are still time-killing. And you cannot employ 3D printing to reduce manufacturing. Thus, the auto-manufacturing line has been the most professional selection, which lowers the labor demands and ensures the safety of employees.

WKproto is a professional rapid prototyping and low-volume production manufacturer specializing in 3D printing, we have professional machines and workers for 3D printing services. If you need any type of 3D printing service, contact us now!