This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to perform the heat treatment of 3D-printed parts after printing. For a detailed demonstration of the process, please refer to our video tutorial below.
Play Video about How to make the Heat Treatment
Why Heat Treatment is Important
Heat treatment is crucial for removing residual thermal stress from printed parts, particularly those made from cobalt chrome or titanium. Without this process, parts are prone to bending after cutting, which compromises their fit and functionality.
When to perform Heat Treatment
- On the building plate, immediately after the printing process.
- Before cutting the part from the building platform.
Steps for Heat Treatment
1. Prepare the Part:
- Place the part in a specialized holder and secure it with the provided cap.
2. Conduct Heat Treatment:
- Perform the process under an argon atmosphere. The cap prevents oxygen from entering, ensuring the part remains free from oxidation.
3. Allow the Part to Cool:
- After the heat treatment, leave the part in the furnace to cool for at least 30 minutes before removing it.
Benefits of Heat Treatment
- Prevents oxidation.
- Relieves residual stresses.
- Ensures dimensional stability and perfect fit for subsequent processes, such as cutting on a bandsaw.
By following this method, your parts will be fully prepared for the next stages of post-processing.
