Satin Black Finish — 3D People UK

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Satin Black dye is more than just a dye colouring process. As well as altering the appearance, the surface finish improves part properties. 3D printed PA12 Nylon parts are naturally white using SLS technology and grey using MJF. The Satin Black finish achieves a deep black colour, improved haptics, dirt and scratch resistance without affecting part tolerances. To order 3D printed parts with a Satin Black dye finish, upload your 3D files through our instant quote portal, choose PA12 Nylon and select the finishing option for Satin Black.

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Natural White + Black Dye

Natural White SLS parts can be dyed Satin Black using a combination of PolyShot surfacing and black dye. The processes improve the surface quality without altering any dimensions or material properties.

Vibro Polishing + Black Dye

Polished white SLS parts can be dyed black. The finish is more scratch-resistant than un-polished black; however, the colouring can appear slightly mottled.

Natural Grey + Black Dye

Satin Black MJF parts are entirely black and have a smooth surface finish. The processes improve the surface quality without altering any dimensions or material properties.

Black Dye + Vapour Smooth

Vapour Smoothed black parts are a darker colour and have a slightly shinier finish. The smoothed surface is sealed, more dirt-resistant with improved mechanical properties. Learn more.

Vibro Polishing + Black Dye

Satin Black Vibro Polish MJF parts are entirely black and have a smooth surface finish. These parts benefit from improved properties, including dirt and scratch resistance.

WHY use satin black DYE?

Satin Black Dye finish achieves a deep black colour for your PA12 Nylon 3D printed parts. Additionally, the finish improves part characteristics such as scratch resistance, haptics and UV protection. PolyShot surfacing included in this service produces a homogenous surface finish that is repeatable across multiple batches.

PROS


+ Does not alter part dimensions

+ Improved haptics

+ Durable, dirt and scratch-resistant

+ Dark and uniform black colour

CONS


- Adds 1 day to the production lead time

- Polished black is a lighter colour

- Single colour

- Additional cost

How it works

The improved finish is achieved with a new automated finishing process called PSS (PolyShot Surfacing), also referred to as shot peening. The surfacing equipment blasts media at 3D printed parts, making a more homogenous surface that significantly improves the deep dye process. Our industrial deep dye equipment involves a series of automated procedures and dyes the components at 95 degrees in a non-toxic solution.

SATIN Black Dye FAQ:

+ How do I order the satin black dye finish?

To order 3D Printed parts with the Satin Black Dye finish, upload your 3D files through our instant quote portal, choose PA12 Nylon (either SLS or MJF) and select the colour option for Satin Black.

+ What is Satin Black Dye?

Satin Black Dye is a surface finish developed by 3D People for SLS and MJF Nylon 3D prints. It is a combination of two finishing techniques called PolyShot finishing and Deep Dye.

+ How is Satin Black Dye different from Black Dye?

3D printed parts with a Satin Black finish are a darker, more uniform black and have an improved surface quality for both SLS and MJF prints. The finish is slightly glossy and has improved haptics. The surface is more scratch-resistant and the surface roughness is reduced.

+ What does Satin Black Dye look like?

The appearance of the surface is somewhere between matt and gloss (AKA semi-gloss or satin) The colour is a deep uniform black.

+ How does Satin Black Dye improve part properties?

The PolyShot Surface finish creates parts that are scratch resistant and have reduced surface roughness for both SLS and MJF 3D printed parts. The parts pick up less dirt, meaning they’ll stay clean for longer.

+ Are there any limitations for types of parts that can be finished?

The maximum and minimums for part size are the same as the 3D printing technologies. The surfacing process is automated and is effective for complex geometries. Check out our design guide for SLS and MJF 3D printing for more info.

+ Does the finishing technique alter the dimensions of the parts?

No, there are no changes when using Satin Black Dye. The PolyShot Surfacing is non-abrasive and does not alter the dimensions or tolerances of the geometry for both SLS and MJF prints.

+ Does Satin Black cost more?

The Satin Black finish costs the same as our previous Black Dye finish for both SLS and MJF prints. We like Satin Black so much, it really does make the parts better! That is why, despite the extra costs on our end, we are offering Satin Black for just 15% on top of the part price.

+ What finishes are available for PA12 Nylon (SLS and MJF)?

We offer 4 finishes for PA12 Nylon 3D prints.

  • Natural White
  • Natural White + Vibro Polish
  • Satin Black
  • Satin Black + Vibro

+ Does dying 3D prints change the material properties?

Satin Black Dye improves scratch and dirt resistance of 3D printed PA12 Nylon for both SLS and MJF technologies. The finish only alters the surface of the part; therefore, black dye parts have the same mechanical properties as natural white parts.

+ Can I colour dye only one surface of my model?

No, as the parts are fully submerged into a dye bath, all internal and external surfaces are covered for both SLS and MJF prints. There is no way to mask off a surface to protect it from being coloured.

+ How long is the lead time for Satin Black Dye finish?

The Satin Black finishing process requires an additional day of processing for both SLS and MJF prints. Satin Black Dye is a next day service which means this finishing method only adds one working day to the production lead time.

+ What is PolyShot surfacing?

PolyShot Surfacing (PSS), also known as poly surfacing or shot peening, is a finishing process applied to 3D printed polymers for both SLS and MJF techniques. The procedure equalises the tiny peaks and troughs in the surface, resulting in a more homogenous, improved finish with a semi-gloss or satin appearance. Polysurfaced parts are more scratch-resistant with improved haptics.