Surface Finish Optimization of Vapor Smoothened PLA Fabricated Parts with Microstructural Analysis

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a product creation method done layer-by-layer. This process tends to create an unwanted feature known as staircase effect. Vapor smoothing is considered a viable solution for polymer-based AM products to minimized surface roughness. Research literature concerning vapor smoothing of polylactic acid (PLA) parts generally limited unlike its ABS counterpart. This research aims to identify optimum level for both chamber temperature and exposure time of the AM product. Two methods were used to compare their outputs with one another. The two methods are surface roughness tester and optical microscopy. The results provided an impressive 50.88 and 62.72% improvement based on the two test methods. Lastly, a contour-plot was generated to provide future users a guideline if they want to conduct research similar study.