Surface roughness refers to the unevenness of small distances and small peaks and valleys of the machined surface. The distance (wave pitch) between the two wave crests or two wave troughs is very small (below 1mm), which belongs to the micro-geometric error. The smaller the surface roughness, the smoother the surface.
Surface roughness is generally formed by the processing method used and other factors, such as the friction between the tool and the surface of the part during processing, the plastic deformation of the surface metal when the chips are separated, and the high-frequency vibration in the processing system. Due to the difference in processing methods and workpiece materials, the machined surface remains. There are differences in the depth, density, shape, and texture of the traces.
Although metal 3D printing technology exhibits flexibility in product development and the ability to produce complex parts that cannot be achieved by traditional methods, if the application of metal 3D printing technology in production is further expanded, designers also need to understand how to use surface Processing technology to reduce the surface roughness of metal 3D printed parts to meet actual production needs.
How much surface roughness affects metal 3D printing technology depends mainly on its application area. Sometimes roughness might not matter, and in some cases, it might even be a good thing. However, most parts have certain requirements for surface roughness.
When machining parts, designers need to quantify trade-offs to determine which process to use, such as metal printing, casting, or metal powder injection molding.
The roughness and smoothness of the 3D printing surface are related to three factors:
A. Printing materials;
B. Construction parameters;
C. The orientation of the parts;
In different printing situations, the surface roughness, equipment, shape, placement, etc., all have an impact on the surface. Generally speaking, vertical is better than the inclined surface, and the inclined upper surface is better than the lower surface.
Typical metal powder injection molding has a very good surface quality (typical Ra is 30-50), while casting is relatively rough (Ra between 100 and 500 microns). Metal 3D printing has a higher surface roughness, usually at Ra 250-400+.
Many common post-polishing techniques can make 3D printed parts meet surface roughness requirements. However, these processes are not necessarily done independently by the manufacturer, and when outsourced processing is required, additional costs such as transportation and overhead are incurred. The risk of quality issues also increases when multiple parties are involved.
JR provides one-stop 3D printing services, including post-processing, we have our own CNC factory, which can provide the following metal processing
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