In additive manufacturing, what is the primary purpose of post-processing?

In additive manufacturing, the primary purpose of post-processing is to enhance the surface finish of the part. After a part is printed, it often exhibits surface imperfections, rough textures, or other visual and tactile flaws due to the layer-by-layer construction process. Post-processing techniques, such as sanding, polishing, or chemical treatments, are applied to improve the aesthetic and functional qualities of the surface. A smoother surface finish can lead to better performance in applications where surface quality is critical, such as in aerospace or medical devices, and it can also reduce the likelihood of corrosion or damage.

While other options, such as improving mechanical properties or speeding up production time, are beneficial outcomes that can sometimes result from post-processing techniques, they are not the primary focus. Post-processing specifically addresses the final quality of the part, which is essential for meeting the desired specifications and enhancing the overall product performance.