The new offering improves the surface quality of parts produced by MJF (Multi Jet Fusion) & SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) processes, and gives customers greater control over surface roughness.
International leader in digital manufacturing, Protolabs announces the introduction of new surface quality standards for 3D printed prototypes and parts. Thanks to new, improved post-processing steps, customers can now benefit from even higher quality standards for additively manufactured parts.
Protolabs has always offered its customers several options when it comes to surfacing, offering a versatile range of different materials and surface treatment methods. Today, customers can choose from an assortment of different surface finishes when producing prototypes and components using Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) or Selective Laser Sintering (SLS).
" Surface roughness plays a key role in the performance and quality of 3D printed parts "says Daniel Cohn, Managing Director and Head of 3DP EMEA, Protolabs Europe. " However, we recognize that not all projects require the same level of surface finish, and often what is optimal for one industry is not for another. Thanks to our new surface finishing options, customers can opt for a standard finish tailored to their needs, or benefit from higher levels of quality when required.. "
The new surface quality standards are divided into three categories: Pure, Smooth and Vapour Smooth. Each of the three quality levels offers different properties and benefits that optimize a part's functionality, integrity and aesthetic appearance. Each standard differs in terms of coating, surface roughness, availability, choice of color and material.
The standard Pure" with a roughness value (Ra) of around 20-30 µm and a regularity (Rz) of 120-160 µm respectively, presents a high degree of roughness.
Secondly, parts with the "Smooth" quality level have reduced surface roughness, with a value of around 10-25 µm and Rz = 60-140 µm. They can be used for a wider range of materials. This form of post-treatment is suitable for the mass production of components as well as prototypes. Smooth finish is now the default finish offered by Protolabs for most materials.
Finally, parts with a Vapour Smooth" with a roughness of 5-15 µm and an evenness of 25-65 µm, have the lowest surface roughness of Protolabs' new range. This is close to the smooth finish usually associated with injection-molded parts. Quality level Vapour Smooth "With its extremely smooth, watertight surface, this type of finish produces components that are airtight and watertight, easy to clean and meet the highest aesthetic demands. This level of finish makes it particularly popular in the automotive, medical technology and housing sectors.