Support Removal Using SVC Technology

When it comes to 3D printing, there is plenty of information on how to set up the perfect print. However, there is another important step to achieving that impeccable model that often gets overlooked in the process, removing the support correctly to ensure there is no damage to the part. Submersed Vortex Cavitation (SVC) is a type of technology that is ideal for automated hands-free removal of support material on multiple types of 3D printed parts. Let’s dive into this technology and how it can make a difference in finishing your parts and prototypes.

Traditional Steps for Support Removal

We all know how important support material is to ensure a successful print. Without it, the material would not form correctly and your part would resemble something similar to an amoeba. Support material is the key to ensuring the part forms correctly. The typical removal process follows these steps:

1. Determine the type of removal. Choose which process is needed based on the support material used during printing; soluble, breakaway, pressure washing or chemical dissolve. 
2. Remove the support. This process can be very manual and time consuming depending on the part geometry and materials used. 
3. Finish the surface. Determine if the part needs additional work after the support is removed to make the surface smooth. This will vary based on materials and desired finished look. 

>> Learn more with our FAQ: Best Practices for Post-Processing FDM Parts blog article

Submersed Vortex Cavitation (SVC)

Submersed Vortex Cavitation is a combination of submerging parts in detergent, using a vortex that creates a controlled pumping motion to ensure that everything is uniformly removed and cavitation that utilizes ultrasonics to admit sound waves at varying frequencies to create waves of compression and expansion in the detergent. SVC is a proprietary technology developed by PostProcessing Technologies.

Proprietary Detergents

PostProcess brings an impressive level of effectiveness to the SVC technology with its proprietary chemistry. They utilize three main detergents with the SVE line that were developed especially for additive materials. These specialized detergents will dissolve soluble support material or uncured resin without compromising the build.

Vortex Pumping Scheme

The vortex ensures that the entire part is evenly finished. PostProcess stated, “This motion ensures that parts that float sink, parts that sink float.” This means that regardless of density or geometry, the Vortex component of SVC technology will ensure that the part is uniformly exposed to the detergent and cavitation from the ultrasonics.

Benefits of SVC

SVC brings a new level of efficiency and accuracy to post-processing your parts. Regardless of the geometry or material, you can ensure your part will come out as intended without risk of damage during the final step. 

Here are some of the benefits of SVC:

• Unparalleled consistency
• Hands-free removal
• Increased throughput
• No breakage or missed supports
• Greater productivity 

Submersed Vortex Cavitation is ideal for ensuring that the final step in production does not damage the final product or take up valuable time. This technology is used in the PostProcess patent-pending DEMI series of machines that can remove support from FDM, PolyJet, SLA and CLIP materials. It adjusts in real-time to ensure the parts are not damaged and the removal is consistent.

Learn more about the PostProcess line of support removal options to make your final step in production go from overwhelming to automated.