Learn how Extrude Hone AFM can help enhance parts made by additive manufacturing.
Once regarded as a mere novelty by some, additive manufacturing, aka 3D printing, is now an extremely popular method of producing all kinds of objects. There are many different technologies that fall under the umbrella of additive manufacturing, such as:
- SLA: This technology transforms a pool of liquid resin into an object by selectively curing it in successive layers with a special laser.
- FDM: In this process, plastic objects may be created by shooting liquid polymers through indexing nozzles, allowing the polymers to cool and harden, and then applying the next layer. In the more complex MJM version of this process, hundreds of nozzles may be used to build up the object in 3 dimensions.
- 3DP: The only process that builds in colors, 3DP “prints” a binder into a container filled with plaster- or starch-based powder, creating a solid object.
- SLS: In this additive manufacturing technique, a laser is used to fuse tiny particles of plastic, metal, ceramic, or glass into layers and build up the object.
Unfortunately, even the most precise additive manufacturing methods are not perfect. They may still leave behind microscopic pits and burrs, which can present a big problem if the products being manufactured are destined for use in high-precision applications.
For example, the SLS method of additive manufacturing can create highly intricate parts for turbines, pumps, motors, etc. However, in order to perform at top capacity, these parts need to have high-quality surface finishes on all interior passages to enhance, not impede, flow. The very intricacy of these parts, which additive manufacturing has enabled, makes it impossible to finish the passage surfaces using traditional methods. This is where AFM becomes extremely valuable.
At Extrude Hone AFM, we have the capability to achieve highly precise, uniform finishing of interior surfaces on even the most complex and intricate parts. Thanks to our huge variety of abrasive media and carrier media, we can work with you to achieve the exact result you want, whether you just need a light honing with a fine abrasive grit and a very fluid carrier or require aggressive material removal with a coarser grit and a thicker carrier.
We have been working on products made by additive manufacturing, (particularly SLS) for years, almost since the very beginning of the adoption of this technology. We are extremely excited to continue helping companies embrace the nearly limitless design possibilities offered by additive manufacturing without compromising on the high performance of their products.
By enhancing the precision of 3D printed metal passages, we truly are the perfect partner for manufacturers implementing this technology. We have worked on everything from aluminum to Iconel and we’re confident we can help with your project too.
