Why Post Process SLA parts?
Printed SLA parts are removed from the build plate, and the residue liquid resin is cleaned using Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) by soaking for 10-20 minutes before taking it out and letting it dry.
- Remove support structure: Supports are an essential part of the SLA printing process, helping to prevent deformation and warping. As the supports are made from the same material as the final part, support removal for SLA must be done manually.
- Post curing: Post-curing SLA parts can significantly improve the mechanical properties, strength, and performance by completing the polymerisation process. The post-curing process works by exposing your part to UV light and heat.
PROCESS OPTIONS
Support removal Strip and Ship
The support structure is removed from the supported side of the part, leaving a dotty surface. If a high-quality surface finish is required, we suggest adding extra material (at least 0.1 mm). Added material allows for sanding and avoids affecting the part geometry.
Process Notes
- Supports are made from the same material so must be removed manually.
- This is the basic finish at no extra cost
Sanding
Sanding generally achieves the smoothest surface finish by using multiple sand grits. Whether we are trying to remove the support bumps or build lines, dry or wet sanding will result in a smooth surface.
Process Notes
- Removes signs of supports
- Surface finish close to injection molded products
- Level of sanding and lead time is different depending on the required finish
- This process is at a cost
Spray paint clear UV protective acrylic
Spray painting printed SLA parts conceal built layer lines and reduces the need for sanding. The clear coat also protects the parts from yellowing and post-curing by limiting UV exposure.
Process Notes
- Protects the surface against UV using a clear coating
- Can be used to finish the model in a specified color
- Color matching is possible at a cost
- Process steps and lead time will depend on the required finish
- This process is at a cost
Sanding and polishing translucent parts
When printing parts from Somos Watershed, the result is a translucent finish from the printer. The surface can then be sanded with different sandpaper grits to achieve the required clarity. The last step will be, apply a clear coat to hide the scuffing from sanding surfaces. This process is manual and will only be possible on easily accessible surfaces.
Process Notes
- Printed part are translucent when using a clear resin
- Sanding / polishing steps lead time depends on the required finish
- Not suitable when using the parts to reflect light, as the sanding will cause the beams of light to scatter
- After sanding a clear coat is applied to cover the scuffed surface and restore the shine
- This process is at a cost
Staining
Parts can be stained in many colors using special alcohol-based dyes.
Process Notes
- Clear parts can be stained in different colors after sanding
- This service is combined with sanding, and it is at an extra cost
