Why blasting?
Clean component
The last powder residue is reliably removed.
Compacted surface
The surface becomes more closed and pleasant to the touch.
Uniform finish
Even matte look without spots.
Good basis
Ideal before dyeing.
How it works
- Step 1
Depowdering
Coarse powder is removed after printing.
- Step 2
Blasting
The part is treated with fine blasting media.
- Step 3
Cleaning
Blasting media residue is blown off.
- Step 4
Next
Optional dyeing or chemical smoothing.
Which processes and materials?
| Process / material | Suitability | Note |
|---|---|---|
| SLS · PA12 / PA11 | very good | standard after depowdering |
| SLS · TPU | good | gentle blasting |
| FDM | limited | can slightly matt layer lines |
| Metal | very good | for even metal surfaces |
Where it pays off
Notes
What does blasting do for 3D printed parts?
After powder printing (SLS, MJF), fine residual powder sticks to the surface. In blasting, fine blasting media hit the part: they reliably remove the powder, compact the surface and create an even matte finish without spots. The part feels more pleasant and is cleaner.
Blasting is also the ideal preparation for dyeing, because colour absorbs more evenly on a uniform surface. Metal parts from SLM printing also get a uniform surface by blasting. Basic blasting is included in the price for SLS parts.
Suitability
| SLS · MJF | standard after depowdering |
|---|---|
| SLM (metal) | for even metal surfaces |
| FDM | can slightly matt layer lines |
| Dimensions | practically no change |
| Look | matte, not glossy |
FAQ about blasting
What is the difference to smoothing?
Blasting compacts and cleans the surface mechanically; it stays matte. Chemical smoothing makes it much smoother and seals it.
Is blasting included in the price?
Basic blasting is included for SLS parts. We state a finer finish in the quote.
Want to turn your idea into a finished part?
Send us CAD data, a photo, a sketch or the original part. We check feasibility, process and material and get back to you with an assessment and a quote.