Kate G. - Jan 11 2024
How to Smoothing PLA 3D Prints
If you actually have certain parts and pieces that you need to have smooth in your 3D prints you can following the process below. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove layer lines from 3D printed models and achieve a smooth surface for painting. Take the time and be patient with every step for quality outcomes.
How to Smoothing PLA 3D Prints:[hide]
Tools for Smoothing 3D Prints
Let's start with tools collectively contribute to a comprehensive and safe 3D print smooth processing experience.
- Mask
It's important to wearing a mask while sanding plastic. Sanding plastic generates fine bits and dust, and to avoid inhaling it, you need to using a mask throughout the sanding process. The use of a mask is deemed crucial for personal safety during this activity.
- Sandpapers and Sticks
The sanding process begins with specialized sanding sponges, featuring angles that facilitate access to cracks. Sandpapers of varying grits (80, 120, 220) and sanding sticks with different grits are employed. Larger pieces with flat surfaces might benefit from a palm sander, although caution is advised to prevent excess removal or deformation of the PLA filament.
- Pliers and Snips
Pliers and snips play a crucial role in support removal, with a flat piece aiding in precise support removal. A high-quality set of snips ensures effective support removal.
- Dremel
Additionally, a Dremel with deburring bits proves invaluable for smoothing out prints efficiently, reducing the need for extensive manual sanding.
- Respirator
A respirator is essential during this process to mitigate the inhalation of plastic dust.
Initial Sanding 3D Prints
Cleaning up rough edges and lightly sanding 3D prints with 120 grit paper is a crucial step to prepare the surface for further improvement.
Applying Putty
After the initial sanding, the next step involves adding the putty to achieve a smoother finish. Using fingers to spread the putty is a practical approach. This step aims to further enhance the smoothness of the print. Additionally, you could light sand with 120 grit after applying the putty.
Sanding Putty
In the sanding putty phase, using 220 grit sandpaper, the primary objective is to eliminate excess putty, achieving a smooth surface. During this process, it's crucial to scrape out any inadvertently filled edges or seams. Once the sanding is complete, the print is prepared for the primer application. After applying a coat of primer, any remaining gaps or imperfections are addressed, requiring a light sanding with 220 grit sandpaper. If needed, add a second layer of primer, and sanding with 600 grit sandpaper. The surface, now prepared, is ready for painting. With the sanding completed, the print is now ready for painting.
A close-up view showcases how the putty effectively fills gaps between layer lines.
Paint
The surface, now prepared, is ready for painting. Although the surface initially exhibits a bit of texture, wet sanding with 600 grit sandpaper is employed to achieve a smoother finish before applying the top coat.
Starting with a base coat, shading, and accents, the print undergoes a transformative painting journey. The close-up examples showcase the smoothness achieved in areas where putty was applied, contrasting with the visible layer lines on untreated sections. Adding color accents, especially with thick acrylic paint, proves effective in covering layer lines.
For those aiming for a mirror finish, the key lies in a repetitive process of wet sanding and applying additional top coats.
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