What are the techniques for 3D printing model post-processing ?

1. Polishing and polishing
Due to its special forming method, the 3D printed model will have a stepped layer on the surface of the model. These layered patterns are inevitable even for the finest printers currently available. Although we can adjust the parameters during layering or the placement of the model to make the layer texture unobvious, but the subtle texture will still affect the overall perception of the model.

Therefore, in order to remove these layers, we need to use sandpaper or file for polishing. We use different tools for polishing according to the roughness of the surface. Generally, you can use a file like the trace left by the support. It is much more convenient to use sandpaper on a large surface. Sandpaper is divided into different mesh sizes according to the size of the particles. The smaller the mesh size, the larger the particles. For materials such as pla and abs, sandpapers of 80, 120, 600, 800 to 2000 are often used. The 800 to 2000 sandpaper is mainly used for polishing to eliminate the layering. Therefore, when using sandpaper, it is necessary to start polishing with a small mesh number to remove the layer pattern, and finally use a large mesh sandpaper for polishing. Of course, a lot of dust will be generated during the polishing process, so it is recommended that the sandpaper or model can be wetted and polished, which can effectively reduce the dust.

2. model repair

I believe that everyone will encounter faults or defects of the model due to some reasons when printing the model. In this case, don’t rush to throw the model into the trash can. If the bad place is not big, your model may still be able to Rescue again. Let’s talk about tools first, the most commonly used 3D printing model is to fill the soil. Filling soil is also divided into several categories, such as ab filling soil, toothpaste filling with caulk filling, and water filling soil to help color and fill in fine joints. For relatively large gaps and defects, you can generally use ab to repair the soil. When using it, mix a soil and b soil in equal proportions to fill the defects. The advantage of ab supplementary soil lies in its plasticity. For example, the missing parts of the model can be repaired with ab supplementary soil. Toothpaste replenishing soil is a paste-like substance like his name, which can play a good role in filling the gaps in general. It is difficult to find the faults of the model after polishing the soil and then grinding.

3. Use primer

Spraying primer is a very necessary step before the model is painted, and water is used as the primer. In addition to filling small gaps, the main function of water-replenishing soil is to expose the defects of the model to facilitate inspection of the outer surface of the model. In addition, it is also conducive to coloring the model. Moisturizing soil can help the pigment adhere to the model. The color of the primer can be determined according to the main color of the paint. After the primer has dried, continue to sand it in rough places until smooth. If your model has been processed through the above steps, it is basically difficult to see the traces of 3D printing, then you can officially color it.

4. Model coloring

In addition to the fineness of printing, the quality of a model depends on its color. Coloring is arguably the most interesting place besides design. You can choose the picture as a reference for restoration, or you can create according to your own preferences. Of course, the final effect is ok if you like it. Coordinated and meticulous coloring can sometimes save a flawed model. Of course, failed coloring can also ruin all previous efforts.