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3D Printing Resource Center

3D Printing Technology

Post-processing

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Removing supports, sanding, and painting your prints.

Post-processing is an important step in 3D printing that helps improve the appearance and functionality of your printed parts. Here are some common post-processing techniques:

  1. Removing Supports: Supports are structures added to 3D prints to prevent overhanging parts from sagging or collapsing during the printing process. After printing, the supports need to be removed by carefully cutting or pulling them off the printed part. This can be done using a pair of pliers, tweezers, or a sharp knife. Be sure to remove all the supports carefully without damaging the printed part.
  2. Sanding: Sanding helps smooth out the surface of the printed part, removing any rough edges, bumps, or imperfections left behind by the printing process. It is recommended to use sandpaper with progressively finer grits, starting with a coarse grit (e.g. 100 grit) and gradually moving up to a fine grit (e.g. 800 grit). Sanding can be done manually or with the help of a rotary tool or sanding machine.
  3. Painting: Painting can be done to add color, texture, and protection to your printed parts. Before painting, make sure the surface of the printed part is clean and free of any debris or dust. Apply a primer to the part to help the paint adhere better. Then, apply the desired paint using a brush, spray can, or airbrush. Allow the paint to dry completely before handling the part.

Other post-processing techniques include smoothing with acetone vapor, filling gaps with filler or putty, and polishing with a polishing compound. The choice of post-processing technique will depend on the material used for printing, the desired finish, and the intended use of the printed part.

3D Printing Technology

3D printing materials

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An overview of different types of filaments and their properties.

3D printing materials, also known as filaments, are the materials used to create physical objects using a 3D printer. There are several types of filaments available for 3D printing, each with their own unique properties and applications. Here is an overview of some of the most commonly used filaments:

  1. PLA (Polylactic Acid) – PLA is one of the most popular 3D printing materials. It is made from renewable resources and is biodegradable, making it an environmentally-friendly option. PLA is easy to use, has a low melting point, and is ideal for printing detailed objects. However, it can be brittle and may not be suitable for objects that will be exposed to high temperatures or stress.
  2. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) – ABS is a strong and durable filament that is often used to create functional objects. It has a high melting point and is resistant to impact and heat. However, it can be difficult to print with due to its tendency to warp and emit fumes during printing.
  3. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) – PET is a strong and lightweight filament that is commonly used to create functional parts. It has a high melting point and is resistant to impact and moisture. However, it can be difficult to print with due to its tendency to warp.
  4. Nylon – Nylon is a strong and durable filament that is ideal for creating flexible and functional objects. It has a high melting point and is resistant to impact and abrasion. However, it can be difficult to print with due to its tendency to absorb moisture and warp.
  5. TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) – TPU is a flexible and rubber-like filament that is ideal for creating objects that require a high level of flexibility, such as phone cases and toys. It has a low melting point and is resistant to impact and abrasion. However, it can be difficult to print with due to its tendency to string and warp.
  6. PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) – PVA is a water-soluble filament that is commonly used as a support material. It dissolves in water, making it easy to remove from the final print. PVA is ideal for creating complex objects that require support structures. However, it can be expensive and may require special storage conditions to prevent moisture absorption.

These are just a few examples of the many different filaments available for 3D printing. When choosing a filament, it’s important to consider the desired properties of the final object and the printing capabilities of your 3D printer.