What post-processing techniques should you include in your 3D modeling portfolio for 3D Printing?

To make your 3D modeling portfolio truly stand out, focus on niche post-processing techniques that go beyond the basics. Highlight your proficiency in ultrasonic support removal, which preserves intricate details while ensuring a clean finish. Showcase your ability to use resin infusions for not just smoothing but also strengthening PLA prints, making them more resilient. Include advanced surface treatments like conductive coatings or hybrid finishes that integrate both aesthetics and functionality. By mastering these specialized methods, your portfolio will reflect a deep expertise in transforming raw prints into cutting-edge, high-performance products.

Adding the support removal as one of the effects that indicates what you are capable of doing as post-processing in 3D modelling also shows that you are capable of doing one of the most delicate aspect after the printing. Emphasize your use of the pliers, cutters, tweezers and heat guns to desafely and quickly eliminate supports which can harm the model. Introduce how you keep native spot and scar marks to the minimal level on your prints while embracing their strength. Adding current examples of complex models where support removal is difficult and was done appropriately by the author can enhance one’s understanding of the particular definitive step of the process.

One of the best techniques I used in support removal is using a double extruder 3D printer while the second one is using a special material to 3D print the support which can be melted with water. This technique gives a great surface quality without the need to use any special tools.

Ultrasonic cutters are another excellent tool for support removal. They offer precise, clean, and efficient cutting with minimal damage to the part, reducing both post-processing time and material waste.

Including post-processing techniques in your 3D modeling portfolio for 3D printing can significantly enhance your work's appeal and quality. Key techniques are surface finishing through sanding, polishing, and chemical smoothing. Painting, coating, and electroplating add aesthetic and functional value. Joining methods like gluing, welding, and mechanical fastening are crucial. Functional enhancements include annealing and infiltration. Surface treatments like texturing and hydrographic dipping improve visual appeal. Support removal, both manual and soluble, ensures clean finishes. Utilize post-processing tools and techniques like 3D scanning and software tools for digital finishing and accuracy.

Vapor treatment is one of the easiest techniques, it can be used with ABS filaments and it gives a very smooth surface, as shown in this video by just using some aceton, papers and a jar! https://youtu.be/HXqzw9BpjSY?si=Glg5lTHZBM5YwPQH

Finishing requires lots of efforts to finish the part to meet required surface finish. For complex surfaces it becomes more difficult. We can make use of customised tools that can provide ease in finishing. Acetate smoothening can be used for ABS ,but it will affect on the dimensions values.

For PLA material best practice which i do is sanding the part with relevant sand-paper and coat it with the resin. Some times to make part conductive we can coat lead on the sanded part, which can be further processed for conductive coating like copper, silver or gold.

In crafting your 3D modeling portfolio for 3D printing, don't forget the transformative touch of sanding and polishing. These techniques are like the magic wands of the 3D world, smoothing rough edges and adding a gleam of perfection. Picture it as giving your creations a spa day – a little pampering to showcase their true beauty. So, embrace the artistry of sanding and polishing, because in the realm of 3D printing, a polished finish is the signature of a masterpiece.

We just need to know that there are different types of materials, and each material requires studying to understand the appropriate sanding and polishing techniques. from my experience with ABS and PLA, as they are the most common materials. - For ABS prints, I typically start with 180-grit sandpaper due to its slightly rougher surface texture compared to PLA, which can handle 120-grit initially. Then, I progress to 320-grit for both materials before finishing with a polishing compound and buffing wheel for a high-gloss finish. -Understanding the heat resistance of ABS allows me to utilize vapor smoothing with acetone for a flawless finish. - When working with PLA prints, I prioritize hand-polishing with sanding pads and chloroform.

1. Prepping for Paint: - Remove any dust or residue from sanding with a cloth and isopropyl alcohol. - Choose a primer compatible with your material (e.g., plastic primer for ABS/PLA). - For small gaps use a material-specific filler, For larger gaps or layer lines: Use a material-specific putty (e.g., ABS putty for ABS, wood putty for PLA) to fill imperfections. 2. Painting: - Choose your paint: Acrylics , Enamels ,Spray paints - Apply thin coats: Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat to avoid drips and runs. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. - Clear coat: Apply a clear coat (gloss, matte, satin) for final desired finish.

For the Coating and painting I personally believe that the complexity of the part plays a vital role as some times during the metal coating, parts do not get properly coated at some of the points, which makes entire process useless. Step to do Electroplating on PLA parts: 1) Remove the supports. 2) Clean the part and do sanding. 3) Cover the part with Lead powder/paint. 4) Dip the part into the mixture of Copper sulphate. 5) Connect part to the – terminal of the charge 6) Connect base metal to the + terminal of the charge. 7) Provide Prover V & A to them. 8) Take part out of the liquid and wait for it to be dry. Note:- 12 V and 2A works best for the parts below 5mm X 5mm X 5mm.

I used to paint and coat with different media like acrylic, varnishes, rubber paint, etc. Now, I use vinyl wrapping. You need to get used to the technique, but you get amazing results. You cannot vinyl wrap PLA prints however, because you need to use a heatgun. PETg is generally fine if you don't heat the part for too long.

Here is my step-by-step process for painting/coating: 1. Rough sanding - Wet-sand the parts with 50-200 grit sandpaper 2. Apply a layer of spray filler/primer - This helps hide holes/gaps in the part as well as improve the paint adherence 3. Sand the primer with fine grit sandpaper once 100% dry. There is no need to go super fine if you plan to paint over this. 4. Repeat steps 2 & 3 until you have the surface you desire 5. Spray the model with whatever paint/coating you prefer. Don't forget to select a paint with the right surface finish (glossy or matt). 6. (Optional) A clearcoat for added durability or a specific finish

According to my experience, adding a third party element like lighting or electronic tools like motors can give "life" to your design, consider using - motors - wires - batteries - sensors..

Although this seemed to focus on artistic additions I would like to mention some additions that can improve the mechanical function of 3D printed parts. 1. Heat-set inserts - These metal threaded inserts are melted into undersized holes and leave a high-quality reusable thread. 2. Self-tapping screws - These are single-use and used to join other components to 3D-printed parts without using a heat-set insert. 3. Steel reinforcement - Thin pointed steel rods can be heated and inserted into load-bearing 3D prints to improve strength. 4. Bushings, bearings and washers - Any time you want parts to move relative to each other components such as these are a good idea

As per my experience, adding a mechanical and electronics creates a best outcome of the 3d printed parts. For example:- Mounting a Optical sensor on the Flange which is created using a 3d printed part or a hall sensor on the Motor body which can measure the speed of the motor.

When incorporating components such as LEDs and motors, it's wise to avoid PLA due to the potential heat they might emit. PETg is generally a reliable choice for a wide range of projects, unless your designs venture into more unconventional territory.... Flamethrower, anyone ? :-)

for hobbyst FDM printers, look for dry brush techniques , you just use super watered paint to fill the holes and wrinks, then use a contrast colour to highlight sharp edges and features. The key for this technique to work nicely is to think of the dry colour as it where light pointing at your piece. This way you want to have "light" in one side of the face but not both .

In your 3D Printing portfolio, display varied post-processing methods, proving your value in projects. Emphasize your sanding and priming proficiency for smooth aesthetics. Show your painting or dyeing skills for vibrant pieces, and your expertise in metal plating or vapor smoothing for durable, professional parts. If relevant, exhibit your ability to assemble complex models, showcasing precision. Connect these techniques to their practical benefits, demonstrating how they improve functionality and aesthetics of 3D prints. Your portfolio should tell a tale of creativity, technical prowess, and insight into transforming simple prints into functional, market-ready products or stunning artworks.

In my experience, the post processing activities vary based on the 3D Printing process and the materials used. Two of the most common materials are metals and plastics. For metals, generally in this order: Support or anchor removal Surface Finishing Heat Treatment Machining Inspection Coating Shot Peening Ultrasonic Cleaning QC on measurements Assembly For plastics, and generally in this order: Support Removal Post Curing Sanding or Polishing Priming Painting or Dyeing or Vapor Smoothing Heat Treatment Inserting Fasteners Epoxy Filling Ultrasonic Cleaning Assembly Functional Testing

Besides the conventional methods, try to understand what post-processing can do in a particular problem or open up new opportunities. Provide reference to such strategies as the adoption of additive manufacturing with the more conventional ways like injecting molds, creating multiple parts with intricate finishes and varying material make, or applying particular finishes for certain uses like metal applications. Emphasize tasks mastered in handling the print failures or in trying out new type of material to print on. With these issues incorporated in one’s portfolio, it showcases resourcefulness, creative and proactive problem solving to a client or an employer.

The focus in your 3D modeling portfolio for 3D printing should be on relevant post-processing techniques. 3D printing, traditionally seen as just for prototyping, is gaining industrial importance. Your portfolio should reflect this shift. If it's artistic, show how you enhance mechanically produced items with your creativity. If it's more industrial, highlight techniques that are simple, effective, and scalable. This approach demonstrates your capability to contribute in a broader industrial scope.

Opt for materials compatible with your envisioned finishing touches, like painting or coating. It's crucial to harmonize the printing material with your desired post-processing method. Personalize your choices to ensure your creations not only shine digitally but also come to life seamlessly in the physical realm. Selecting materials with care adds a touch of finesse, transforming your 3D models into tangible works of art.