Utilities · Post-Processing

Post-Processing Tools

Finish prints like a pro. Smooth ABS and ASA with an acetone-vapor walkthrough, timer, and safety checklist; follow a material-specific painting and priming routine; and look up the right hole size and iron temperature for heat-set threaded inserts.

Material

Method & Part

Vapor method

Part detail / size

Safety — Read First

⚠Acetone is highly flammable. No open flames, sparks, cigarettes, pilot lights, or hot heat-guns anywhere near the vapor.

⚠Ventilate. Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated space. Do not breathe concentrated vapor — use a respirator rated for organic solvents for long sessions.

⚠Never heat acetone directly. Use ambient or gently warmed vapor only — no stovetops, no direct heating elements.

⚠Wear nitrile gloves and eye protection. Keep away from children and pets.

⚠Use a sealed glass or metal chamber. Acetone attacks many plastics — don't use a container it can dissolve.

Exposure Timer

0:15:00

Ready

min sec

Walkthrough & Tips

Material

Goals

Hide layer lines (smooth finish)

Maximum durability (handled / outdoor)

Part flexes in use

Quick Reference

Recommended Routine

Notes & Tips

Insert Thread Size

Dimensions are for typical tapered brass heat-set inserts (CNC Kitchen / generic M-series). Always confirm against your insert's datasheet — knurl patterns vary by brand.

Part Material (for iron temp)

Boss & Insert Dimensions

Boss outer ⌀8.0mm

Insert outer ⌀4.6mm

Bore ⌀ (model hole)4.0mm

C’sink ⌀5.0mm x60°or90°

Insert length5.7mm

Bore depth≥ 6.7mm

Iron temp240°C set point

Printing wall line width 0.42 mm

Default is a typical line width for a 0.4 mm nozzle. Drag to match your slicer's wall/line width.

Installation Tips

Safety first. Acetone vapor smoothing involves a flammable solvent — the safety checklist on this page is a summary, not a substitute for proper training, ventilation, and protective equipment. You are responsible for working safely. PLA, PETG, TPU, and nylon are not acetone-smoothable.

Reference values for exposure time, surface prep, and insert dimensions are typical starting points across common brands and conditions. Insert hole sizes vary by manufacturer and knurl design; iron temperatures depend on your tip and part geometry. Test on scrap first. Cross-check fits on the Tolerance & Fit Calculator and material limits in the Filament Material Guide.

Post-Processing Tools

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