Vapor Smoothing for parts made on Sinterit printers

Most 3D prints have visible layer lines or rough textures due to the nature of additive manufacturing, where objects are built layer by layer. Factors such as layer height, material type, and print settings can affect surface finish. Even high-quality SLS prints may show some porosity or micro-roughness. To achieve a smooth, sealed, and professional surface, post-processing techniques like vapor smoothing are essential. This process eliminates surface imperfections, seals pores, and dramatically enhances both appearance and functionality.

To make your 3D print smooth, you’ll need to apply a post-processing method that reduces surface roughness. One of the most effective techniques is vapor smoothing, which chemically smooths and seals the surface, removing visible layer lines and improving both appearance and performance. Other methods include sanding, bead blasting, or coating with resins — but vapor smoothing is ideal for functional parts, especially when hygiene or sealing is important.

Vapor smoothing is an advanced post-processing technique used to improve the surface quality of 3D printed parts. It works by exposing the parts to controlled vaporized solvents that gently melt the outermost layer of the material. This process smooths the surface, seals microscopic pores, and enhances mechanical properties — resulting in a finish comparable to injection-molded parts. It’s especially effective for SLS and FDM prints made from thermoplastics like PA12 or TPU, and is ideal for applications requiring cleanability, durability, and professional aesthetics.

Vapor smoothing is not suitable for all 3D printing materials. It works best with specific thermoplastics — particularly those used in SLS and FDM technologies — such as PA12, TPU, ABS, and ASA. These materials respond well to the vapor process and show significant improvements in surface finish and mechanical properties. However, materials like PLA or certain composite-filled polymers may not be compatible or could degrade under vapor exposure. Always check material compatibility before processing.

Yes, vapor smoothing can cause slight dimensional changes, typically in the range of a few microns, depending on the material, geometry, and processing time. While the effect is minimal and generally uniform, it may slightly alter tight tolerances — especially on small, detailed features. For most applications, the change is negligible and outweighed by the benefits in surface finish and performance. However, for critical-fit parts, it’s recommended to factor in vapor smoothing during the design phase or conduct post-process dimensional verification.

Vapor smoothing should be applied as a final post-processing step—after printing, depowdering, and any necessary mechanical finishing or dyeing. It’s ideal for parts that require improved surface quality, sealing, or enhanced mechanical properties before reaching the end-use phase. Whether you’re preparing prototypes for presentation or functional parts for real-world use, vapor smoothing helps ensure a professional finish and consistent performance. For best results, integrate it after all other modifications are complete.

The vapor smoothing process typically takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the material type, part geometry, and desired surface quality. This includes all stages: conditioning, vapor exposure, re-solidification, and drying. The process is automated and consistent, making it suitable for both prototyping and batch production without adding significant delays to your workflow.

Smoothing techniques are specific methods used to reduce surface roughness and improve the appearance or functionality of 3D printed parts. These techniques focus on how the smoothing is achieved and may vary depending on material, geometry, and desired finish.

Common techniques include:

• vapor smoothing – uses vaporized solvent to chemically smooth and seal the surface,
• sanding or polishing – mechanical methods to physically flatten layer lines,
• bead blasting or tumbling – uses fine media to uniformly texture the surface,
• resin or epoxy coating – applies a layer to fill gaps and create a smoother finish,
• thermal smoothing – uses heat to gently melt and level the outer surface.

Each technique has trade-offs in terms of cost, speed, repeatability, and surface detail. Selecting the right one depends on your application — from functional prototypes to end-use parts.

Smoothing treatments refer to complete post-processing workflows applied to 3D printed parts with the goal of enhancing surface finish, improving hygiene, sealing the surface, or preparing the part for certification or use in regulated environments.

Unlike “techniques,” which describe individual methods, a treatment may combine several steps, such as:

• part preparation or conditioning,
• application of a smoothing process (e.g., vapor exposure),
• curing and drying cycles,
• quality control and inspection.

Smoothing treatments are often part of a validated or automated process, especially in industrial applications like medical, food processing, or aerospace, where consistent and certifiable surface quality is essential.

They ensure the final part meets functional and regulatory standards, going beyond just looks — delivering cleanability, sealing, and performance enhancement.