At Forerunner 3D, we understand that the final finish of a 3D printed part is as crucial as its design and functionality. That’s why we offer a diverse range of coating and painting options to ensure that every printed piece not only performs well but also looks impeccable. From black dyes that are incredibly durable and wear resistant to the robust and wear-resistant Cerakote coatings, we’ve got you covered. For those seeking a glossy, high-end finish, our automotive paint options provide a sleek appearance reminiscent of luxury vehicles. For clear parts, we have specialized finishes that enhance transparency and give a polished look. Moreover, for projects demanding a touch of luxury or enhanced conductivity, our metal plating services impart a genuine metallic sheen and added strength. Whatever your aesthetic or functional needs, our finishing options are tailored to elevate the final appearance and durability of your 3D printed creations.
Dyed Part Finishes
Using a Girbau DY130 and Rit Dye we are able to permanently dye SLS and MJF parts black:
Automotive Paint Finish
This painting process is great for prototypes, trade show models, or investor pitch models. If you are looking for something that will hold up to rough use, harsh environments, and end use applications, please look at our Cerakote option below.
This option is great for getting color onto your parts and can be applied to anything produced on any of our 3D printed technologies. In some cases the parts will be fully sanded, then primed, and re-sanded again before the final coat of paint is applied in order to make the parts have an extremely high-end finish. In other cases a part will just be coated in the requested color to keep the cost down and lead time as short as possible. We have the ability to offer any paint color from the following color systems:
Cerakote Finish
Cerakote is a Polymer-Ceramic Composite coating that can be applied to many different 3D printed materials. The unique formulation used for Cerakote ceramic coating enhances a number of physical performance properties including abrasion/wear resistance, corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, impact strength, and hardness.
For more information on this coating and examples of it being used on 3D printed parts please check out our dedicated page.
Clear Part Finish
Parts printed on one of our SLA machines in the Accura Clearvue material can be hand sanded and clear coated to achieve a very clear surface finish.
Metal Plating
Electroplated coatings are a great compliment to 3D printed part that need characteristics like:
- Environmental Barrier
- EMI shield
- Abrasion resistant surface
- Improves strength and stiffness
- Long term durability
Using 3D Printing in conjunction with electroplating its possible to create high end durable products in low quantities for high value applications.
Metals that are available for plating:
- NICKEL
- COPPER
Examples of parts that have been metal plated:
NOTE: Having parts coated typically adds 2-10 days to the time it takes to get parts done and shipped out.