Automated Depowdering Systems for 3D Printed Parts

Post-processing after 3D printing is crucial for ensuring the quality and durability of the produced parts. This phase, occurring after printing, involves various processes such as cleaning, surface treatment, and removal of support structures. It is essential for all types of printing, whether large or small. For powder-based processes such as SLS, MJF, and Binder Jetting, depowdering is the first step. This process cleans the parts of residual powder and prepares them for further post-processing steps. Manual handling often produces insufficient results and is particularly useful for small parts and limited runs. This is why many users opt for automated depowdering systems, which save time and improve process efficiency. In this guide, we’ll present a few automated solutions for depowdering polymer parts, followed by depowdering systems for metal parts.

Solukon SFP770

The Solukon SFP770, designed by Solukon Maschinenbau of Augsburg, is an efficient system for automatic powder removal from molten SLS plastic parts. Serving as both an unpacking and cleaning station for polymer parts, it is compatible with the EOS P 770 and can be adapted for use with the FORMIGA P 110 and EOS P 500 through specific adapters. The cleaning process occurs in two stages: first, fully automatic deconditioning, which speeds up processing time, followed by the actual cleaning. The system is equipped with explosion protection, constructed from stainless steel with no ignition sources, and features ATEX-compliant components. Safety is further enhanced by suction and spray monitoring. Additionally, the SFP770 offers several practical functions, such as direct connection to the cleaning system and an ionized blasting device. A manual blasting device is also available for additional cleaning.

(Photo Credits: Solukon)

Pulvermeister Typ 5

Presented at Formnext 2022 in Frankfurt, the PULVERMEISTER Typ 5 is the latest finishing system from German company PULVERMEISTER, and an improved version of the Typ 4. This innovative system retains all the features of its predecessor, while adding advanced surface treatment to make parts ready for sale in a single operation. Typ 5 uses a patented process in which the abrasive is manufactured from the same material and with the same printer as the parts to be treated. Thanks to a contamination-free recycling process, using a special separation filter, shot particles are filtered from the stream and reintroduced into the blasting circuit. This method ensures a high-quality finish that’s both environmentally friendly and cost-effective.