We offer several surface finish and post-processing options for metal and plastic 3D-printed parts. These options can range from as-printed with only support structures removed to custom finishing for highly aesthetic parts.
Various post-processing operations can be used to:
- Reduce surface roughness
- Add custom color
- Increase transparency
- Increase part strength
Note that finishing options will vary by material.
Metals
Plastics
→ Stereolithography
→ Multi Jet Fusion
→ Selective Laser Sintering
→ PolyJet
→ Carbon DLS
Custom Finishing
→ Request Custom Finishing
Metals
Standard
Expect roughness values of 200 to 400 µin Ra (0.005 to 0.010mm Ra), depending on material and resolution. Support structures are removed and layer lines are visible.
Custom
Custom finishing for metal 3D-printed parts includes post-processing machining, heat treatments, and several brushed surface finishes in a range of grits. View a complete list of custom finishing options.
Plastics
Stereolithography
Unfinished
Dots, or standing "nibs," remain evident on the bottom of the part from the support structure remnants. Good for when fast lead times are required or cost is a factor
Natural
Supported surfaces are sanded down to eliminate the support nibs.
Standard
Supported surfaces are sanded, and the entire part is finely blasted for a consistent look. Note that the layers are still present.
Custom
Soft-touch paint, clear part finishing, painting, masking, color matching, decals/graphics, and texture finishes are available. View custom options
Multi Jet Fusion
As-printed
Parts will be gray in color and slightly rougher in texture compared to standard finish.
Standard
A bead blast removes all powder and leaves a consistent overall texture. Parts are then dyed a standard black color.
Vapor Smoothing
Significant reduction of surface roughness from 250+ μin RA (as-printed) to 64 – 100 μin RA after smoothing. Available for PA12 Black and PA12 40% Glass-Filled Black.
Custom
Common post-processing options for MJF parts include a primer that can be applied, as well as taps and inserts.
Multi Jet Fusion
Standard
Parts are bead blasted to remove loose powder and create a smooth matte finish.
Vapor Smoothing
Significant reduction of surface roughness from 250+ μin RA (as-printed) to 64 – 100 μin RA after smoothing. Available in PA 11 Black, PA 12 White, PA 12 40% Glass-Filled, and TPU 70-A.
Custom
Common post-processing options for MJF parts include a primer that can be applied, as well as taps and inserts.
PolyJet
Standard
Support structures are removed and sanded down to remove nibs.
Custom
Common custom finishing is clear coat on the digital clear material to enhance translucence.
Carbon DLS
Natural
Aesthetics will vary based on build orientation. Standing nibs are sanded flat.
Standard
Parts are bead blasted to remove loose powder and create a smooth matte finish.
Custom Finishing
Custom finishing options to meet your exact specifications are available.
| Plastics | |
|---|---|
| Clear Coat | Applied to plastic parts to create a clear, glossy finish. Ideal for lenses and other optical applications. |
| Thermal Cure | Enhance mechanical properties of Accura 5530 and PerForm. This process does make parts more brittle. |
| Plating | Electroless nickel plating adds strength and durability to plastic parts. |
| Painting | Parts can be painted to match any Pantone number. For best results, parts are typically sanded and polished before applying paint. |
| Dyeing | Dying is a low-cost option when a material’s natural color is not desired. Color options include black, green, red, blue, and yellow. |
| Texture | Apply a spray texture to mimic a Mold-Tech brand-like finish or improve UV-resistance of SLA parts. |
| Cerakote | Cerakote ceramic coatings are known for their superior performance on polymers and metals. Cerakote's high abrasion and scratch resistance, hydrophobic properties, as well as UV and chemical protection make it the ideal finish for 3D printed parts. |
| Metals | |
| CNC Machining | Achieve smooth surface finishes, tighter tolerances, or threading with post-process machining. |
| Heat Treatment |
Multiple heat treatments are available to further enhance mechanical properties of metal additive parts. NADCAP certification is available upon request.
|
| Polishing | Brushed and polish surface finishes are available upon request. |
| Cerakote | Cerakote ceramic coatings are known for their superior performance on polymers and metals. Cerakote's high abrasion and scratch resistance, hydrophobic properties, as well as UV and chemical protection make it the ideal finish for 3D printed parts. |
Additional Links and Resources
11 Tips to Reduce Injection Molding Costs
Stretch your budget with these injection molding design recommendations. Quick hint: Simplify!
How to Use Mold Flow Analysis
Flow analysis helps decide gate placement, locate knit lines, and find areas where gas can get trapped.
Glass Transition Temperature of Polymers
Glass transition temperature (Tg) affects moldability, strength, elasticity, transparency, and more.
Beginner’s Guide to Injection Molding
Learn what product designers must consider when designing a part for injection molding, including: warp, surface finish, stress, resin additives, and more.
