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-----Surface Improvement of Rapid-manufactured Parts
Q. Hello,
I'm working with a Clemson University research lab to improve the surface finish of parts made in our 3-D Printer. The parts have a sintered 420 stainless steel powder (30um) base structure infiltrated with molten bronze to achieve full density. The resulting surface is very rough due to the capillary forces that draw the bronze into the part and leave the stainless powder protruding. We'd like to be able to get the finish to as-machined or better using a process that can accommodate complex 3-D geometries and curvature. We've considered many avenues from PVC coating to shot peening. Is there a treatment option out there that can be applied with good dimensional control and yield a good quality surface finish? Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Nathan RaceResearcher - Clemson, SC, United States
2005
A. Electropolishing is worth a try.
Jeffrey Holmes, CEF
Spartanburg, South Carolina
A. You used the words rough and protruding. To me, that means surface modification before any secondary coating and the best way to achieve those results is via mechanical finishing or more specifically mass finishing equip. Size and volume will determine proper equip.
AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
A. Look into drag polishing.
BUD GRAYBILLpolishing shop - California
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