ZPrinter
®
350 / ZPrinter
®
450 User Manual
Post-Processing
37
All Rights Reserved
10/31/12
4
Post-Processing
This section describes how to post-process your part to give it both strength and enhanced color. You have
a variety of choices in post-processing methods, including salt water, Z-Max epoxy, and Z-Bond instant
infiltrant. For more details about these methods, see our 3DS Central website at
.
We’re always testing new materials and combinations, so check our Web site for the latest complete infor-
mation regarding post-processing materials, techniques, Best Practices, and material storage guidelines.
All this information, plus shopping for consumables, is at
4.1 Post-Processing With Z-Bond
This section describes post-processing a part using Z-Bond Instant Infiltrant. The infiltrant soaks into the
newly-printed part and bonds the printed powder together. This both strengthens the part and gives it more
durability.
Z-Bond is available in larger bottles for use in the
dipping
method. For parts with
delicate features, smaller bottles of Z-Bond are available for
drizzling
onto a part.
Safety Precautions
•
Read and understand the
Material Safety Data Sheet
before using or
handling this product.
•
Wear a lab coat or smock, gloves, face shield, or goggles.
•
Apply in a well-ventilated area.
•
Specialized containers are recommended for applying Z-Bond. Have a
catch pan, waxed paper, or plastic drop cloth available for catching spills.
•
Label disposal materials and dispose of according to the label instructions.
•
Wear a dust mask when sanding finished parts.
•
Z-Bond reacts with water and ambient moisture. Once a bottle has been opened, it is recom-
mended that the product be used within 30 days. Avoid all contact with water and avoid use under
high humidity conditions. If Z-Bond is exposed to excessive humidity, it will thicken up and become
unusable for infiltration.
•
Store Z-Bond in a cool, dry area.
This section covers the following topics:
•
•
Section 4.1.2, ’Post-Processing Using the Dipping Method’
•
Section 4.1.3, ’Post-Processing Using the Drizzle Method’
4.1.1 Preparation
Before you begin infiltrating your part, make sure the part is completely free of powder. See Section 2.10.2,
’Fine Powder Removal’ for more details. Follow these preparation guidelines:
•
Wear a lab coat or smock, safety glasses, and a pair of the high quality gloves from the Startup Kit
(or 2 pairs of lightweight disposable gloves).
•
Use a dipping container large enough to fully submerge your part.
•
Have paper towels ready for absorbing excess fluid.
•
Ensure the part is completely dry before applying Z-Bond.
•
Work in a well-ventilated area.
•
Place a piece of cardboard down in your work area and place a piece of wax paper over the card-
board for the part to dry on.
