Chemical surface smoothing: the path to professional quality 3D printed parts

Chemical surface smoothing is one of the most effective methods to take the output of a 3D printer from prototype level to a truly usable, professional part. Where mechanical methods of surface modification encounter limitations with complex shaped parts, chemical post-processing delivers consistent results and a significant improvement in not only the visual but also the functional properties of the part.

This is why chemical smoothing is increasingly becoming the standard for polymer parts produced with 3D printing technologies such as SLS, MJF or SAF.

Chemical surface smoothing and its effect on part quality

The principle of chemical smoothing is the controlled application of solvent vapours to the surface of a part. These vapours gently "etch" the top layer of the material, thereby closing the micropores and smoothing the surface of the part.

The result is a smooth, homogeneous and uniform surface that offers several major advantages:

• a significant reduction in surface roughness,
• the closure of porous structures,
• improved mechanical properties of the part,
• increased resistance to moisture and dirt,
• a professional appearance suitable for end-use applications.

Chemical smoothing is particularly ideal for PA12, PA11 and TPU materials, which are the most widely used in industrial additive manufacturing.

DyeMansion ASM VX1 - an affordable and flexible solution for chemical smoothing

A new addition to the 3Dees Industries portfolio is the DyeMansion ASM VX1, a compact device designed for chemical surface smoothing of 3D printed polymer parts.

The ASM VX1 is designed as a self-contained, closed and safe system that enables precise process control and stable results even without a fully automated production line.

Selected technical data:

• Machine dimensions: 450 × 660 × 1100 mm
• Chamber volume: approx. 24.6 litres
• Process time: approx. 1.5-3 hours depending on material and geometry
• Compatibility with 3D printing technologies: SLS, MJF, HSS, SAF

The ASM VX1's small compact size and easy integration make it suitable for smaller plants, development centers or design departments.

When to choose ASM VX1

The DyeMansion ASM VX1 is particularly suited for prototyping and development, piece production and small batches, as well as for plants where flexibility, rapid deployment and variability of manufactured parts are key. The machine enables high surface quality and is a simple solution with interchangeable cartridges according to the type of material in the printed parts.

ASM VX1 vs. Powerfuse - two paths to a smooth surface

When it comes to chemical surface smoothing, it is important to choose the right solution for the type of production.

DyeMansion ASM VX1

• a flexible and compact machine with interchangeable cartridges,
• ideal for prototyping, single part production and small batches,
• suitable for development and application plants.

DyeMansion Powerfuse

• fully automated solution including the creation of custom smoothing profiles,
• designed as part of digital manufacturing,
• suitable for volume prototyping and batch production with lower vaporization costs ,
• maximum repeatability and integration into production lines.

While Powerfuse is a solution for industrial scalability, ASM VX1 offers affordable chemical smoothing technology for low production.

3Dees Industries offers both chemical smoothing options to make this post-processing method affordable not only for digital manufacturing, but also for development, custom manufacturing and smaller runs.