Finishing
Dip coating for 3D printed parts
Immerses the part in liquid polymer so every face, hidden ones included, gets the same coat.
- Unchanged
- Core strength
- Strength
- Slight; adds a protective skin
Finish profile
Properties added
- Surface finishEven film; drip edge at the lowest point
- StrengthSlight; adds a protective skin
- Water resistanceContinuous film all over
- Chemical resistanceDepends on the coating chosen
- Wear / abrasionTough or rubbery skin
- Colour / lookPigmented coatings
- Electrical conductivityUnchanged
Trade-offs
- Dimensional changeFilm is thicker than spray
- Lead-time impactDip and cure cycles
Typical values on a 0 to 4 scale.
Suitable materials
- FDMSuitable
- SLS nylonSuitable
- SLASuitable
- Fine threadsMask first
- Closed internal cavitiesAdd a drain path
Dip coating specification
| Coverage | All exposed faces in a single dip |
|---|---|
| Thickness | Set by coating viscosity and withdrawal speed |
| Watch for | Drip edge on the lowest face; mask threads and mating faces |
| Coating | Chosen to suit the use: grip, insulation or protection |
Dip coating FAQ
Why choose dipping over spraying?
Dipping coats every exposed face at once, including recesses a spray gun misses.
What are the drawbacks?
The lowest face collects a drip edge, and the film is thicker than a spray coat. Threads and mating faces need masking.
Which coatings are available?
Tell us the use (grip, insulation or protection) and we recommend a coating on your quote.
Companies that use HenleyPrint3D
Related guides
- 3D printing post-processing guide
- 3D printing tolerances explained
- How much 3D printing costs in the UK
Process pages: FDM 3D printing, SLA 3D printing, SLS 3D printing. Material data: 3D printing materials.
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