select
navigate
switch tabs
Esc close

Metal 3D printing for watertight watch cases

0
H
2

Hi! I’m prototyping a watch case and considering metal laser sintering (DMLS or SLM) due to cost constraints—CNC machining is out of budget. My main concern is whether an as-printed sintered metal part will be watertight enough to pass standard watertightness tests, or if post-processing (like infiltration, sealing, or polishing) is necessary to ensure no micro-porosities. Has anyone tested this in real-world applications, and what finishing steps would be required to achieve full waterproofing?

    • H

      Hi! I’m prototyping a watch case and considering metal laser sintering (DMLS or SLM) due to cost constraints—CNC machining is out of budget. My main concern is whether an as-printed sintered metal part will be watertight enough to pass standard watertightness tests, or if post-processing (like infiltration, sealing, or polishing) is necessary to ensure no micro-porosities. Has anyone tested this in real-world applications, and what finishing steps would be required to achieve full waterproofing?

      0
    • R

      DMLS and SLM are awesome for making complex shapes, but the parts straight out of the printer aren’t always completely waterproof. That’s because the sintered metal can have super tiny pores that let liquid sneak through. Even when the part is really dense (like 99%+), those little gaps can still be there, which might lead to leaks when pressure is applied.

      To make sure everything is totally sealed and waterproof, you usually need to do a bit of extra work after making the part. One way is Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP)—basically, squeezing it evenly to get rid of tiny air pockets and make it denser. Another trick is surface sealing, like using epoxy or PVD coatings, which help fill in little gaps and keep rust away. And finally, polishing or machining smooths things out, especially where gaskets go, so you get a nice, tight seal.

      HIP does a great job of making the part denser, but if you want it to be completely waterproof, you’ll probably still need a surface treatment like electropolishing or sealing. A nice, smooth finish also helps gaskets do their job better. If the case needs to handle deep water, the safest bet is to combine HIP with a PVD or epoxy coating for extra protection.

      0
      Reply
    • Have a look at Tritone Technologies they can print to a very high standard. But not sure it will be waterproof without a second process.

      0
      Reply
Metal 3D printing for watertight watch cases
Your information:




Suggested Topics

Topic
Replies
Views
Activity
Feasibility of using DMLS aluminum parts for pressure-test prototypes
I’m testing the idea of using DMLS Aluminum parts as pre-production prototypes for a high-pressure fluid system. These would be static housings only, not moving parts. Has anyone validated 3D-printed aluminum components under realistic... read more
A
0
95
Nov 24
Process for a low-volume stainless steel pump impeller
Hi all, I’m designing a stainless steel impeller for a small pump (diameter around 80 mm). Would you go for metal additive manufacturing or casting if you need tight tolerances on the blades and... read more
p
c
1
181
Nov 24
Minimum letter size for raised text on SLS nylon parts
I’m working on a medical device enclosure that needs raised lettering (product name and serial number) on the lid, printed in SLS nylon. The letters are around 2 mm high with a stroke width... read more
m
j
4
495
Oct 30
2 mm stainless sheet bend radius
I’d like some help with a project. I’m designing a stainless steel 304 enclosure with multiple 90° flanges (sheet thickness ~2 mm). For strength and edge alignment, I want the inside bend radius to... read more
L
C
4
391
Oct 24
Urethane casting for sensor housings
Hello all, I’m looking for some advice. I’m working on a prototype of a handheld casing for an outdoor sensor (approx. 20×10×5 cm) that needs to be rigid, weather-resistant, and have fine surface details.... read more
a
e
6
201
Nov 13