Finishing Methods for 3D Printed Parts

If additive manufacturing is to account for a respectable share of production in the future, it can’t rely on primitive methods of finishing such as hand sanding. That point has long been apparent to 3D printing contractor RedEye, which recently completed its beta testing of various finishing methods for parts made through fused deposition modeling. Processes including tumbling, vapor smoothing, bead blasting and plating have now been added to its range of services. In place of surfaces with layer lines, these finishing methods can produce a smooth or shiny appearance appropriate to a visible consumer part.