Use cases sorted by surface condition/surface objectives.
In additive manufacturing, numerous post-processing methods can be used, which can also be combined with each other. On this page, you will find recommendations for the finishing options that can be used for each application case.
Recommended Post-Processing Methods by Objective
![3D printed component in Polyamide 12 using Multi Jet Fusion process in gray 3D printed component in Polyamide 12 using Multi Jet Fusion process in gray](https://3faktur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Standard.webp)
Components without Special Surface Requirements (Standard)
Examples
“Non-visible parts” such as brackets, mechanical components, etc.
Desired effect
–
Materials
PA 12
Finishing methods
none, only cleaning
Explanation
Most economical solution due to the elimination of further processing steps.
![PA 12 3D-printed component housing drill machine with shot peening PA 12 3D-printed component housing drill machine with shot peening](https://3faktur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/hochwertig.webp)
Components with High-Quality Appearance (High-Quality)
Examples
Housings, structural components in the exterior area of a system (control panel, etc.).
Desired effect
black
Materials
PA 12
Finishing methods
Dyeing
Shot Peening
Explanation
Economical solution for producing fully black and high-quality components.
Examples
Housings, structural components in the exterior area of a system (control panel, etc.).
Desired effect
colorful
Materials
PA 12
Finishing methods
Chemical Smoothing
Painting
Explanation
Special colors can be achieved through painting, which are difficult or not feasible with dyeing (e.g., metallic).
Examples
Housings, structural components in the exterior area of a system (control panel, etc.).
Desired effect
high gloss or smooth surface
Materials
PA 12
Finishing methods
Dyeing
Chemical Smoothing
Explanation
Surface smoothing and achieving a higher gloss level.
![two 3D printed components made of PA 12 W and PA 12 two 3D printed components made of PA 12 W and PA 12](https://3faktur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/reinigungsfreundlich.webp)
Components with Easily Cleanable Surface (Easy to Clean)
Examples
Housings in medical technology or cleanroom applications.
Desired effect
sealed surface
Materials
PA 12
Finishing methods
Chemical Smoothing
Explanation
Sealing the surface through chemical smoothing.
![Components Subjected to Friction Components Subjected to Friction (Subjected to Friction)](https://3faktur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Reibung-1.webp)
Components Subjected to Friction (Subjected to Friction)
Examples
Housings in medical technology or cleanroom applications.
Desired effect
sealed surface
Materials
PA 12
Finishing methods
Chemical Smoothing
Explanation
Sealing the surface through chemical smoothing.
![Components in Contact with Liquids Components in Contact with Liquids](https://3faktur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fluessigkeit-1.webp)
Components in Contact with Liquids (Contact with Liquids)
Examples
Liquid-carrying components
Desired effect
Leak-tightness against liquids
Materials
PA 12
Finishing methods
Chemical Smoothing
Explanation
Prevention of capillary effects by sealing the surface. Note: The effect cannot be achieved inside narrow channels due to technical reasons.