Surface technology for additive manufacturing

Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies are recognized as promising new approaches for the production of industrial goods. One of the major drawbacks, however, is the surface quality of parts prepared by AM. In the present paper, the potential of applying classical surface technology to efficiently improve the surface properties of AM products is explored. The surface properties of parts produced by different AM technologies were investigated and showed rather large variations between various spots at the surface. Low‐pressure plasma, as well as flame treatment, were found to provide a good activation also of the porous surfaces of parts prepared by selective laser sintering of PA12 (polyamide). Lacquering was found to tremendously reduce the roughness of AM products. The best results were obtained by the combination of lacquering and polishing of lacquers, which are optimized for polishing. Polymer parts prepared by additive manufacturing (AM) technologies are very rough (Rz up to 200 µm). Lacquering is a good option for smoothing. The combination with the polishing of coated parts was found to be most efficient. Low‐pressure plasma and microflames allow the activation of porous surfaces and complex geometries. The surfaces of AM parts often show slight oxidation