Influence of Surface Treatment on Abs Parts Printed Using Fused Deposition Modelling

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is the most commonly used Additive Manufacturing (AM) method for converting 3D designs into physical plastic models. The layer by layer addition of the material results in an uneven surface finish of the final product. In this study, the samples for the coating processes were printed as per the ASTM standards needed for mechanical tests, different post processing techniques viz. sputtering, spray painting and acetone dipping were carried out and these coated specimens were then tested for hardness & measured for roughness and the results showed noticeable improvements. A comparison has been made between the results of different post processing techniques in order to determine the most suitable process.