For businesses and manufacturers grappling with the complexities of finishing non-metal parts, particularly in finishing 3D printed parts, the quest for a method that combines precision, efficiency, and quality can seem daunting.
Understanding these challenges, Mass Finishing, Inc. (MFI) offers a solution with our centrifugal barrel finishing machines. Our high-energy finishing technology is designed to seamlessly remove support material from 3D printed parts, smooth out imperfections and striation lines, and deliver a superior polish.
In this article, we’ll share the solution for finishing your non-metal parts, as well as a real-world application (and video demonstration!) that reveals how our MFI HZ-Series Centrifugal Barrel Finishing Machines can revolutionize your finishing process.
Overcoming the Limitations of Conventional Finishing Methods
Traditional methods such as water jets are often used for finishing 3D printed non-metal parts, but they have notable shortcomings. Water jets have slow processing times and aren’t efficient. They also are unable to finish parts in batches, hampering your productivity.
Centrifugal Barrel Finishing: Your Solution for Non-Metal Parts Finishing
MFI’s HZ-Series Centrifugal Barrel Finishing Machines are a game-changer for non-metal parts finishing. Our high-energy finishing technology stands out by offering a hands-free way to remove support material from 3D parts, smooth out striation lines, and achieve a mirror polish finish – all while utilizing a batch finishing process.
What is Centrifugal Barrel Finishing (CBF)?
Centrifugal Barrel Finishing is a type of high-energy tumble finishing that uses centrifugal force to subject parts and media to pressures greater than the force of gravity. These machines use this pressure and friction to quickly remove excess material, polish part surfaces, and create a uniform finish.
Utilizing centrifugal barrel finishing not only accelerates your production timeline but also ensures a consistently high-quality finish for 3D printed parts. Unlike traditional finishing methods, like using water jets, CBF machines allow you to finish more parts, at a higher consistency.
Real-World Application: 3D Print Finishing
In our recent Stratasys Blocks Demo Video, Cole Mathisen, MFI Sales & Marketing Manager walks through the process of 3D print finishing, specifically finishing acrylic blocks using our HZ-Series High Energy Centrifugal Barrel Finishing machines.
The parts showcased were achieved in the following 3 phases:
- Phase 1: A 45-minute cycle in abrasive plastic media with soap and water initiates the smoothing process.
- Phase 2: A 30-minute session in pre-polishing media, soap, and water further refines the texture.
- Phase 3: A concluding 30-minute polish in treated dry corn cob media brings out a brilliant, mirror-like finish.
The part transformation shown in our video demonstration is a clear illustration of the power CBF machines have when finishing 3D printed parts. Our centrifugal barrel finishing machines effectively turn rough, unrefined surfaces into smooth, aesthetically pleasing finishes in a fraction of the time compared to traditional finishing methods.
Conclusion
At MFI, we recognize the finishing challenges you face with non-metal, 3D printed parts. With our high-energy finishing machines, you can:
Achieve Hands-Free Support Material Removal: Our machines automate the removal process, reducing manual labor and ensuring uniformity in finish.
Smooth Striation Lines: The high-energy action of the centrifugal barrel efficiently smooths out lines, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the parts.
Achieve a Mirror Polish: The multi-step process, which includes abrasive plastic media and treated corn cob, results in a superior mirror-like finish.
Ready to refine your finishing process with efficiency and quality?
Let us help you transform your finishing process into a smooth, efficient, and quality-driven operation. Contact MFI today and discover how our solutions can elevate your production standards!