If you’re venturing into 3D printing with PEEK material, it’s important to follow a precise process to ensure the best results. PEEK, known for its high-performance properties, requires specific handling to achieve the desired outcomes. In this guide, we’ll take you through the essential steps: printing, annealing, and finishing.
Printing PEEK
When you’re printing with PEEK, there’s a crucial tip to keep in mind: remove the part from the build plate as soon as it finishes printing. If you leave it attached, it can fuse to the plate, potentially damaging your glass surface. The good news is, PEEK parts generally pop off quite easily.
After removing the part, you might notice a bit of discoloration on the glass plate and the printed piece. This is entirely normal. You can easily clean the glass plate with water, and the part will eventually attain a consistent color after the annealing process.
Annealing Process
Annealing is a crucial step in the 3D printing process, especially for materials like PEEK. The annealing chamber is where the magic happens. Here’s what you need to know:
- Anneal the printed parts for about three and a half hours in the chamber.
- This controlled heating process helps in relieving internal stresses and ensures the part’s structural integrity.
After the annealing process, your PEEK parts will be more robust and ready for further finishing.
Finishing Touches
Now, let’s talk about finishing your 3D printed PEEK parts. Here’s a handy trick to make the finishing process smoother:
When removing the supports, start with the brim. We use a “skin” between the part and the support structure, which consists of one layer of separation. This technique offers two advantages:
- It provides a better surface finish on the bottom of the part.
- It still allows for easy removal of the support structure.
Even if you notice small gaps between the outline and infill in your printed model, fear not. This issue can be easily resolved with minor adjustments to settings, such as the outline overlap and extrusion multiplier. Experiment and find the settings that work best for your specific model.
With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of 3D printing with PEEK material. Remember that practice makes perfect, and you’ll refine your technique over time.
Thanks for tuning in, and stay connected for more informative videos and updates. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel, and for additional information, visit Vision Miner.