AM-Quality: how automated control prevents failure costs
Oceanz 3D Printing performs post-processing using professional equipment from AM Solutions and Vapor polish machines from AMT. With ISO 9001 (certificate number 10548918) and ISO 13485 (certificate number 10548917) certification, we guarantee consistent quality at every step, from powder removal to a polished end result.
In this article, you will discover which finishing methods are available, when to use which method, and how Oceanz guarantees quality from raw material to finished product.
What is post-processing in 3D printing?
Post-processing encompasses all operations following the printing process to improve functionality, aesthetics, or compliance. For SLS and SLM, the main methods are: powder removal, blast cleaning, polybead polishing, vapor polish, coloring, lacquering, and optionally inserting inserts. The choice depends on your application.
Standard quality at Oceanz: SLS parts have a rough surface texture due to the layer-by-layer construction and the sintering process. At Oceanz, basic finishing (blast cleaning and Polybeads polishing) is included in the process as standard. We deliver a certain quality as a base, whereas many competitors offer this as an option. For functional parts in the manufacturing industry, further finishing is sometimes desirable. Consider medical instruments that must meet specific requirements, or parts for food contact where bacteria must not adhere.
Post-processing improves three aspects: mechanical properties (wear resistance, surface quality), aesthetics (finish, color), and compliance (including medical applications, food contact). Oceanz offers post-processing services for all industrial applications.
Overview of post-processing methods for SLS and SLM
| Method | Goal | Materials | Delivery time* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blast cleaning and Polybead polishing | Powder removal and surface improvement | All SLS materials | Standard |
| Vapor polish | Sealed surface (approx. Ra 3-5 μm) | PA12, PA12 Blue, PA12 Grey, PA11, PA11 CF, PA-GF Anthracite, TPU | +1-2 working days |
| Colors | Aesthetic finish | PA12, PA11 | +1 working day |
| Inserts, reaming, tapping | Mechanical operations | All materials | +1 working day |
| Assembly | Compositions | All materials | Based on consultation |
On top of standard production time
Selection guide: which post-processing suits your application?
No time to read everything? Use this matrix as a starting point:
| Application | Recommended post-processing | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Skin contact | Vapor polish | Sealed surface, no bacterial adhesion |
| Food contact (EC1935/2004) | Vapor polish | Closed surface, easy to clean |
| Visible parts / aesthetic | Polishing polybeads + coloring | Glossy finish, color of your choice |
| Functional / technical | Sandblasting or Polybead polishing | Improved surface quality, short delivery time |
| Coating or painting | Polishing polybeads | Less porous, better adhesion |
Tip for your technical drawing: Specify the desired finishing directly in your 2D drawing or 3D model, for example “Vapor polish”. Based on your specification, we can start a discussion about the most suitable finish for your application. This prevents misunderstandings and speeds up the quotation process.
Vapor polish: from rough to polished
For SLS PA12 parts, Vapor polish reduces surface roughness from approximately Ra 6-8 μm (after Polybeads polishing) to Ra 3-5 μm, without loss of dimensional accuracy. Oceanz uses professional Vapor polish machines from AMT for an automated, consistent finish. This is not a makeshift process with acetone and a plastic container – it is a controlled chemical process in a vacuum process chamber.
How does it work? Your parts are exposed to controlled vapors that slightly dissolve the surface. The material structure remains intact, but the roughness disappears. The result: a sealed, glossy surface suitable for skin and food contact.
Vapor polish works excellently for PA12, PA12 Blue, PA12 Grey, PA11, PA11 CF, PA-GF Anthracite and TPU. View the Vapor polish page for full material availability and design guidelines.
Polishing polybeads for a refined finish
Polybead polishing creates a refined, glossy finish on 3D-printed plastic parts. At Oceanz, we use advanced machines from AM Solutions for this process. The part is not deformed – the dimensions and fit remain unchanged.
The process works as follows: small polybeads are shot against the surface under pressure. This reduces the surface roughness from Ra 10-15 μm (untreated) to approximately Ra 6-8 μm. The surface becomes less porous and visually more attractive. Furthermore, it improves suitability for subsequent treatments such as coating or painting.
Oceanz has multiple polishing machines so that different raw materials remain strictly separated. This prevents contamination and is crucial for applications in the food and medical sectors.
Quality assurance: from raw material to finished product
Post-processing is only complete when quality is guaranteed. At Oceanz, quality control runs continuously from the printing process through to the finishing.
De AM-Quality module It checks parts during the printing process. After post-processing, a final inspection takes place before parts are released. With 97% right-right and full traceability per batch, we guarantee consistent quality without reprints.
For medical components, this process complies with ISO 13485 and biocompatibility according to EN ISO 10993-1. You can find more information on the Life Science & Health industry page.
FAQ
How long does post-processing take?
Standard finishing (blast cleaning and Polybeads polishing) is included in the standard delivery time. Vapor polish adds 1-2 working days. Coloring adds one working day. At Oceanz, the total turnaround time, including finishing, remains short thanks to Dutch production and short lines of communication.
Which post-processing for food contact?
For food contact, PA12 Food Grade (blue and white) is suitable. Finishing must maintain EC 1935/2004 compliance. Vapor polish is ideal: the sealed surface prevents bacterial adhesion and simplifies cleaning. Oceanz uses separate machines to prevent contamination.
Can I combine post-processing?
Yes, various finishing treatments can be combined. Vapor polish, for example, can be combined with colors. Please note: with PA-GF Anthracite, Vapor polish results in a deep black finish without additional coloring.
Which post-processing is suitable for my application?
Use the selection matrix above as a starting point. For skin and food contact, Vapor polish is the recommended choice. For visible parts, choose Polybeads polishing with optional coloring. Unsure? Upload your 3D model at YourOceanz.eu for tailor-made advice.
Ready to see how Snowflake works?
From raw SLS part to functional end product: post-processing makes the difference. Use the selection matrix to quickly determine the right method, or contact us for tailored advice.
Ready to get started? Upload your 3D model to YourOceanz.eu and receive a quote including finishing within 24 hours.
Oceanz 3D Printing. Because your production and innovation never stand still.
