Cerakote is a thin film ceramic coating that can be applied to MJF 3D Printed parts for either functional or aesthetic reasons. The standalone visuals aside, the benefits can be enormous when Cerakote is applied correctly, these include but are not limited to:
- Scratch / abrasion resistance
- UV Stability
- Elevated hydrophobic performance
- Visual homogeneity between printed and machined parts (also treated with Cerakote)
- Non lifting - If chipped (which is not easy) it will not lift like wet paints can.
This does however rely on proper application. Cerakote will demonstrate good adhesion to raw or polyshot polished parts where some surface texture is maintained. However, as Cerakote is a thin film (around 20um) it does in effect point a big arrow at any remaining surface texture and can transform the hand feel of parts to that of rough sandpaper.
Above is a collection "raw" parts Cerakoted in copper, white and matt black. While they look great they do exhibit considerable texture.
Incremental-AM usually recommends vapour polishing parts prior to application of Cerakote. This is particularly the case where parts are visual or handled. The downside is that the surface adhesion lessens with vapour polishing. Incremental-AM "Process 131" overcomes this and provides smooth and robust parts.
EV cable bracket in Hunter Orange after Process 131 exhibits much higher smoothness and better hand feel while maintaining high adhesion to the PA12 substrate.