Formlabs SLA & SLS Post Processing
For almost any 3D printing technology, post-processing adds time and limits throughput. Formlabs’ post-processing solutions for SLA and SLS 3D printers simplify and automate post-processing so you can consistently produce quality prints across a range of functions, while maintaining a tidy workspace with less time and effort.
SLA Post Processing
SLA parts come out of the printer looking almost ready to go, but there are additional steps you can take to make sure your parts always look their best.
Post Process Steps
- Washing: The foundational step in any SLA post-processing workflow is to remove any excess resin on the surface of the parts through an alcohol or ether wash. This washing step can be done manually by soaking the parts in the solution, or by using an automated machine that agitates the liquid for a pre-set amount of time.
- Curing: When an SLA part finishes printing, the polymerization reaction may not yet be completed. This means parts have not achieved their final material properties and may not perform as expected, especially tough parts under stress. Exposing the print to light and heat, called post-curing, will help solidify its material properties.
SLS Post Processing
SLS parts must be cleaned of excess powder after printing concludes. Once your part has finished printing and is removed from the 3D printer, there are cleaning and finishing:
Post Process Steps
- Blasting/Recovery: After basic cleaning, media blasting (also called sand blasting) is recommended to fully depowder an SLS part. Any powder left unsintered after a Fuse Series print can be recycled and used again, reducing waste and material costs. The Fuse Sift recovers loose powder and tumbles it to mix with fresh powder for use in future prints.
- Smoothing/Polishing: Polishing parts in Fuse Blast will allow you to clean and surface your parts in one step, delivering parts that are not only powder-free, but also smooth, scuff-resistant, and dye-ready with a professional semi-gloss finish in as little as 15 minutes.
Formlabs SLS Post Processing Machines
Formlabs Post Processing Resources
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