
Post-Processing
Review post-processing options for 3D printed parts, such as heat treatment, machining, surface finishing, and inspection.
- Cost vs Lead Time: Machining vs Casting for AM
Machining removes material to achieve tolerance; casting adds material. Post-processing cost depends on part geometry, material, and volume. Lead time varies by supplier
Oct 31, 2026 · 7 min read - Troubleshooting: Excess Porosity in PEEK AM Parts
Excess porosity in PEEK AM parts usually stems from poor feedstock handling, unstable melt parameters, or incomplete stress relief. This guide maps common symptoms to
Oct 26, 2026 · 7 min read - How to Inspect Metal AM Parts for Porosity and Defects
Metal AM inspection requires a layered approach to find internal porosity and surface defects. This guide covers X-ray, CT, and visual checks, explaining when and why
Oct 7, 2026 · 7 min read - Explainer: Annealing vs Laser Annealing for PBF Parts
Conventional annealing uses ovens for uniform stress relief, while laser annealing applies localized heat. Buyers must weigh cost, part size, and tolerance requirements.
Oct 5, 2026 · 7 min read - Explainer: Heat Treatment for Alloy AM Parts
Heat treatment restores mechanical properties in alloy AM parts by relieving residual stress and controlling microstructure. This section explains why alloy AM parts
Oct 5, 2026 · 7 min read - Outlook: Automation in Metal AM Inspections
Automated inspection is moving metal AM quality control from manual sampling to full part verification. Buyers should plan for greater data integration, tighter
Oct 5, 2026 · 7 min read - Cost vs Lead Time: PBF vs Laser Annealing
PBF and laser annealing differ in cost and speed. Laser annealing is usually faster and cheaper for basic cleanliness. PBF costs more but can improve mechanical
Oct 5, 2026 · 7 min read - Buyers Guide: Selecting a Surface Treatment Partner
Choose a surface finishing partner by verifying their process capabilities, material handling, and inspection methods. Focus on their ability to meet specific Ra values
Oct 5, 2026 · 6 min read - Checklist: Verifying Resin Part Surface Finish
This guide provides a practical method for verifying resin part surface finish using 3D printing post-processing techniques. It outlines specific checks for texture
Oct 5, 2026 · 6 min read - Troubleshooting: Rough Surfaces in Metal AM Parts
Excessive roughness in metal AM parts usually stems from powder compaction, process parameter drift, or inadequate support design. This guide lists common symptoms
Oct 5, 2026 · 10 min read - Explainer: How Surface Finish Affects AM Part Life
Surface finish directly affects AM part life by altering stress concentrations, chemical resistance, and wear behavior. Rougher surfaces trap contaminants and accelerate
Oct 5, 2026 · 7 min read - Comparison: SLS vs FDM Post-Processing Requirements
SLS and FDM parts require different finishing steps due to material and machine characteristics. SLS typically needs unbagging, washing, and surface refinement, while
Oct 5, 2026 · 6 min read