Post Print Processing

For some parts, precision and smoothness is vital. Printing with higher resolution can help, but it can add a lot of print time. To achieve precision and smoothness while avoiding extra time, after the print is completed it can be machined.

Milling
Parts made with the MakerBot can be milled in the shop to bring them within tolerance and to create smoother surfaces. Speeds for milling PLA plastic are similar to aluminum and aluminum speeds can be used.

Drilling and Reaming
To make a hole precise for sliding and press fitting, the finished part can be reamed. If a hole is intended to be reamed, it needs to be .005” smaller in diameter when designing the part. The Gcode should be set for "2" shells.

Reaming should be done on the drill press so the reamer will find the hole.

Tapping
PLA can be tapped so long as the shell thickness has been set to at least "2". Tapping is done the same as for metal. Be careful when tapping hole because PLA is soft and can strip easily.

Sanding
Parts can be sanded with the belt sander to create smoother sides. Parts can also be sanded by hand, but this typically is not as effective.