Finishing 3D metal printed parts
Post-processing 3D prints is necessary in order to become nicely finished components. Talking about 3D printing in metal, smooth surfaces can only be achieved by further finishing after the printing process.
As a result of 30 years of experience in metal- and laser processing, Raytech is able to provide a large number of post-processing services.
3D designing and post-processing go hand in hand
During the 3D design phase, it’s useful to keep the importance of post-processing in mind.
Support structures
During the 3D printing process, support structures are essential to connect the printed object with the building plate. Mostly, these structures need to be removed after printing. So, it’s important to print as little unnecessary supports as possible, to minimize printing time and finishing costs.
Finishing possibilities:
- Sandblasting (dry)
- Sandblasting wet
- Drum blasting
- Polishing
- Milling
- Laser welding
- Laser cutting
- Ultrasonic cleaning
Finishing internal channels
Internal channels and cavities can be finished by means of a polishing method. This method makes it possible to significantly reduce the internal surface roughness with a 3D metal printed part.
By combining several blasting techniques with chemical polishing, it’s possible to obtain up to 80% (!) less surface roughness.
More about finishing internal channels can be found on the following page: internal channels
Hybrid technologies
Additive manufacturing & micro laser technologies
By combining additive production methods with subtractive technologies, efficient and innovative solutions can be found.
For example, 3D metal printed components can after the printing process be joined together using laser welding. Due to the good weldability properties, mostly in titanium.(Micro) laser welding of 3D prints allows to produce complex components in an efficient and economical way.