Sign in Get Instant Quote

Finishing Services

Vapor Polishing

At a glance

Applicable Materials

CNC Polycarbonate (Clear, Black)

Colors

N/A

Applications

Enhanced cosmetic appearance, near optically clear applications

Texture

Smooth and glossy

About the Process

Vapor polishing is a manual process that uses a vaporized solvent to melt the surface of the material so that it flows and fills in microscopic scratches or voids. The surface is polished at a microscopic level and no material is lost in the process, similar to vapor smoothing for 3DP. 

This process results in a near optically clear surface finish and is commonly used in applications where high levels of transparency are required.

Design considerations

  • Parts with uniform wall thicknesses will generally smooth more evenly
  • Radiused corners generally produce better results than sharp corners

YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN

4-Axis CNC Machining: Capabilities, Applications, and Design Guidelines

4-axis CNC machining is a subtractive manufacturing process that moves a cutting tool and workpiece along four axes of motion—the standard X, Y, and Z linear axes, plus a fourth rotational axis (the A-axis) that rotates the workpiece around the X-axis. That additional degree of freedom is what separates 4-axis from conventional 3-axis machining. The […]

Learn More

3-Axis CNC Machining Guide: Capabilities, Limitations, and Use Cases

3-axis CNC machining is a manufacturing process in which cutting tools move along three linear axes (X, Y, and Z) to remove material from a workpiece. It’s the most common type of CNC machining, ideal for producing simple to moderately complex parts with flat surfaces, pockets, and basic contours. 3-axis CNC machining is a powerful, […]

Learn More

Also of Interest