Post Print Processing

For some parts that 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 done it can be machined.

Milling
Parts made in MakerBot can be milled in the shop to bring them within tolerance and to create smooth 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 fit 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 for Makerbot. The Gcode should be set for "2" shells.

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

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

Sanding
Parts can be sanded with the belt sander to create smooth sides. Parts can also be sanded by hand, but this typically results in more rough parts than are started with.