TenTech's Laser Smoothing Boosts 3D Print Quality
TenTech, a 3D printing enthusiast, has developed a novel method to enhance the quality of 3D prints. By attaching a 1.5-watt diode laser to a printer, TenTech has successfully reduced visual artifacts, smoothing layer lines and improving fine geometry.
The laser smoothing technique, while effective, has some limitations. It discolored pink filament, but darker filaments remained unaffected. Sharp corners in the 3D prints may lose some detail and become rounded during the process. However, the benefits are notable. A comparison of two candle molds, one processed and one not, showed minimal quality difference. Moreover, the processed mold did not exhibit wax leakage into the 3D print infill, unlike the unprocessed mold. The smoothing process involves non-planar printer movements to maintain ideal laser focus, ensuring consistent results.
TenTech's laser smoothing technique offers a promising solution for improving the quality of 3D prints. While it has some limitations, such as discoloration of certain filaments and rounding of sharp corners, it effectively reduces visual artifacts and prevents infill leakage. Further research and development could potentially address these minor issues and make the technique more widely applicable.
