What Vapor Smoothing does for 3D printed parts
Vapor Smoothing is one of the 3D Plus hardware finishing services on AIHFABS. It is applied after printing so the part leaves production closer to a usable product—not only a raw build. Use this page to decide whether Vapor Smoothing matches your cosmetic, durability, or assembly requirements before you upload a file.
Vapor smoothing in 3D printing is a post-processing method used specifically for 3D printed nylon parts to achieve a smooth, glossy surface finish. The process exposes the printed part to chemical vapors that melt the surface material, causing it to flow and fill in rough areas, resulting in a more uniform and smoother surface finish. Vapor smoothing reduces surface roughness, enhancing the visual and tactile qualities of the component and creating a water-repellent, hydrophobic surface.
Finishing is quoted with the print. Select Vapor Smoothing in checkout, review price and lead time, and keep printing plus post-processing in one order instead of coordinating a second shop.
Why teams specify Vapor Smoothing
Appearance
Vapor Smoothing can hide layer lines, even out color, or create a more uniform surface for display models, consumer housings, and review samples.
Performance
Depending on the process, Vapor Smoothing may improve wear, corrosion resistance, grip, or light diffusion so the part survives handling and end use.
Ready-to-assemble parts
When Vapor Smoothing is combined with printing, you receive parts that are closer to install-ready, reducing secondary work in your own workshop.
How to order this finish
Ordering Vapor Smoothing follows the same 3D Plus software flow as a standard print. You do not need a separate finishing RFQ for catalog options.
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Upload the CAD file
Use STL, STEP, or another supported format. The quoter checks volume and geometry so finishing can be priced against the actual part.
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Choose print process, material, and Vapor Smoothing
Pick SLA, SLS, MJF, SLM, FDM, DLP, or CNC where applicable, then add Vapor Smoothing and any other 3D Plus hardware options the part needs.
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Compare price, lead time, and checkout
Review supplier options, confirm quantity, and place the order. Printing and finishing stay on one timeline and one invoice.
Compatible processes and design notes
Vapor Smoothing is typically applied to plastics or metals produced with industrial 3D printing. Compatibility depends on material, wall thickness, and whether the surface can be reached by spray, media, chemistry, or tooling. Deep recesses, thin walls, and optical faces may need design review. If the automatic quote cannot apply Vapor Smoothing to your file, request a manual quotation.
Need Vapor Smoothing on a batch, a mixed-material assembly, or a part that also requires tapping or painting? Keep those options in the same quote so lead time includes the full stack of operations.
