The vapor smoothing process involves placing a cleaned 3D printed part into a sealed container – or a vapor smoothing machine – along with a solvent, such as acetone or ethanol. The solvent is heated to a specific temperature, causing it to vaporize and fill the container (or vapor smoothing machine’s chamber). The solvent vapor then condenses on the part’s surface, before melting on and smoothing out the part’s outer layer, resulting in a polished finish. After the process is finished, the part is allowed to dry and cool. The process can take up to several hours, depending on the size and complexity of the part.
Do you need a vapor smoothing machine for vapor smoothing?
You do not necessarily need a vapor smoothing machine to perform vapor smoothing. While there are commercially available vapor smoothing machines that are specifically designed for this purpose, you can also perform vapor smoothing using DIY methods with materials that are readily available.
-
Improved aesthetics and surface finish. Vapor smoothing creates a smooth and polished surface, hiding any visible layer lines or imperfections. This can be especially useful for parts that require a high-quality surface finish, such as prototypes or parts for visual applications.
-
Improved water resistance. Because it creates a smooth outer layer on printed parts, vapor smoothing can improve water resistance. However, if water resistance is required, it is important to discuss this before production, as it can affect the vapor smoothing process.
-
Increased durability and strength. The vapor smoothing process can increase a part’s strength and durability as it fuses the outer layer, making it less prone to cracking or breaking. This can be particularly useful for parts that will undergo stress or wear and tear.
One common DIY method involves using a container with a tight-fitting lid and a layer of solvent at the bottom of the container. The 3D printed part is suspended above the solvent using a platform or a stand. The container is then sealed, and the solvent is heated to create a vapor that smooths the surface of the part.
A variety of solvents are also commonly used with vapor smoothing. Here are a few of them.
➡️ Acetone. Acetone is a highly effective solvent used for vapor smoothing parts created with ABS.
➡️ Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). MEK is commonly used for vapor smoothing thermoplastic materials such as ABS, polycarbonate, and acrylic, as well as some thermosetting plastics like epoxy resins.
➡️ Tetrahydrofuran (THF). THF is a strong solvent that is commonly used for vapor smoothing PLA parts.
Which industries use vapor smoothing?
Vapor smoothing is used across a variety of industries for a variety of applications. Here are a few of them.
➡️ Aerospace. The aerospace industry often uses 3D printing to create complex parts for aircraft. Vapor smoothing can be used to improve the surface finish of these parts.
➡️ Automotive. The automotive industry uses 3D printing for prototyping, tooling, and manufacturing parts. Vapor smoothing is used to improve those parts’ surface finish.
You do not necessarily need a vapor smoothing machine to perform vapor smoothing. While there are commercially available vapor smoothing machines that are specifically designed for this purpose, you can also perform vapor smoothing using DIY methods with materials that are readily available.