Which of the following is a common AM post-processing procedure?

Abrasive finishing is a common additive manufacturing (AM) post-processing procedure used to improve the surface finish of parts produced by various AM techniques. While additive manufacturing allows for complex geometries and reductions in material waste, the surfaces of printed parts can sometimes be rough or exhibit layer lines due to the nature of the additive process. Abrasive finishing involves using materials such as sandpaper, abrasive pads, or media in a tumbling process to smooth out these surfaces, enhancing both aesthetic appearance and functional properties of the final part.

This procedure can significantly enhance the surface quality, making the component more suitable for end-use applications where surface integrity is crucial, such as in aerospace or medical devices. In contrast, other options like heat treatment or laser engraving are also used in certain contexts, but abrasive finishing is particularly well known for its role in refining surfaces post-printing. Material casting is generally not associated with AM but rather refers to a different manufacturing process altogether.

Thus, abrasive finishing stands out as a widely-recognized procedure specifically tailored for improving the results of AM components after they have been printed.