Shot peening is a process that enhances the metal surfaces. Tiny spherical stainless steel beads are blasted at very high speeds using pressurized air to treat sintered metal surfaces. At the UCT AM Center, all our metal 3D printed parts undergo a shot peening technique.

CNC Machining uses computers to control machine tools. To meet the high level of precision in the 3D printed part, CNC Machining is done as a secondary process. Applications: Electronics, Injection Molding, Aerospace

Anodizing is an electrolytic passivation process that increases corrosion resistance and durability and also provides better adhesion for paint primers or glues. Both Aluminum (AlSi10Mg) and Titanium (Ti64ELI) are well suited for this process. Applications: Aerospace, Valves, Gears and Medical Devices and Instruments

Passivation is a non-electrolytic process that removes free iron from the surface. When the treated surface is exposed to air, an inert oxide film is formed that improves corrosion resistance. All chemical passivation treatments for stainless steel are treated in accordance with ASTM Standards. Applications: Semiconductor, Medical Devices

Phosphating is a chemical process whereby metal-phosphate layers are added on to the stainless steel material. It provides temporary corrosion protection until further treatment such as passivation is performed. It is also a good adhesion for color coating at a later stage and is a good source of insulation for electrical. Applications: Automotive and Electronics

Electroplating which uses electric current to reduce dissolved metal cations to form a thin coherent metal coating on an electrode. Types of Plating: Gold, Silver and Nickel Plating.