Smoothing Polyamide Natural (MJF)

#1

Hi. I designed and ordered a 3d print out of natural polyamide. I received my order and am very satisfied with the result. The project is a miniature marble machine that uses small steel ball bearings (6 mm diameter).

My problem is that I didn’t design some of the down-ramps steep enough and some of the balls get stuck.

Two questions:

  1. Can I use a small file and/or fine grain sandpaper on natural polyamide to make it smoother?
  2. Is there a household product or chemical I can apply to the polyamide for a smoother surface? (like nail polish, wood finish, etc.)

I do not have a test piece that I can experiment on and was hoping someone with experience can give me some direction. Thank you!

#2

Hello,

Could you please let me know your order number and we will be happy to help and contact you directly.
Thank you n advance.

Best regards,
Anna

#3

Oh, hi Anna. I didn’t want you to think there was anything wrong with my order. I’m really impressed with it. I’m a beginning designer and just miscalculated how steep I needed to make it.

To answer my first question, I experimented on one part with a metal file and found the polyamide to be impressively strong. I instead tried a Dremel tool and was able to smooth off a corner. I believe it melted the material a little as it turned black, but it worked great.

I will next experiment with a chemical or paint to try to smooth the ramps a little more. Thank you.

#4

Hello,

I asked your order number as it would be easier to understand which model are you talking about and found a suitable solution for you.

Kind regard,
Anna

#5

I misunderstood. Thank you Anna, however, I have found a workaround that did not require changing any surface. It’s hard to explain without photos. I will share a video of my finished product eventually. Thanks again.

#6

Here’s a video of it operating.


The dark stains on the ramps are oil residue off of the balls (I was trouble-shooting something else). Anyway, I’m a complete beginner so not bad for my first 3d print. Thanks again to the team at imaterialise!
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#7

Looks awesome Joe! It’s mesmerizing :astonished:

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