Post-Processing and Finishing Techniques
Description
Comprehensive training in post-processing operations for 3D printed parts including support removal, surface finishing, assembly, quality control, and advanced finishing techniques.
Learning Objectives
Students will master various post-processing techniques for different AM technologies, implement safe and efficient support removal procedures, apply surface finishing methods to achieve desired aesthetics and functionality, perform assembly and secondary operations, conduct quality inspection and dimensional verification, and select appropriate finishing techniques based on application requirements and material properties.
Topics (11)
Post-processing overview across AM technologies, workflow planning, safety considerations, tool and equipment requirements, quality standards, and integration with manufacturing processes.
UV post-curing for SLA parts, thermal curing cycles, stress relief heat treatment, annealing procedures, furnace operations, atmosphere control, and property optimization through thermal processing.
Assembly techniques for 3D printed parts, insert installation methods, thread cutting and tapping, drilling and machining operations, adhesive bonding, welding techniques, and hybrid manufacturing approaches.
Surface preparation for coating, primer selection and application, painting techniques, electroplating processes, PVD and CVD coating applications, protective coatings, and decorative finishing options.
Dimensional metrology techniques, coordinate measuring machines (CMM), optical inspection systems, surface roughness measurement, non-destructive testing methods, statistical quality control, and certification procedures.
Automated washing systems, robotic finishing cells, automated support removal equipment, conveyor systems, process monitoring, quality control integration, and Industry 4.0 connectivity.
Cost modeling for post-processing operations, labor efficiency optimization, equipment utilization analysis, batch processing strategies, waste reduction techniques, and total cost of ownership calculations.
Digital texturing and finishing, smart coatings and functional surfaces, integrated sensors and electronics, 4D printing post-processing, nano-scale finishing, and future post-processing paradigms.
Manual support removal tools and techniques, soluble support dissolution procedures, breakaway support handling, safety protocols, chemical handling, part damage prevention, and automated support removal systems.
Progressive sanding techniques, chemical smoothing with acetone and other solvents, vapor smoothing processes, mechanical polishing, bead blasting, tumbling, and surface texture modification.
SLS powder removal and recycling, metal AM stress relief and machining, ceramic debinding and sintering, bioprinting sterilization, construction printing finishing, and emerging technology requirements.