Assessment of the Possibility of Using Turning as a Post-Processing Method for Parts Manufactured by MEX Technology

Additive manufacturing enables rapid prototyping, the production of complex geometries, and a reduction in production costs, which contributes to its widespread use in engineering. Despite the numerous advantages of additive technologies, limitations still exist regarding the dimensional and geometric accuracy of manufactured parts, particularly in MEX technology. The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of using subtractive machining as a post-processing method to improve the accuracy of 3D-printed parts. Cylindrical samples were manufactured using the MEX method with specified process parameters and then subjected to turning. As part of the research, an analysis of the diameter and roundness deviations was conducted before and after the machining process. The results showed a clear reduction in geometric deviations and an improvement in dimensional accuracy after turning. The findings indicate that subtractive machining can effectively compensate for inaccuracies resulting from the nature of the additive manufacturing process. The turning process reduced the sample diameter by up to 7.04%, as intended, while improving geometric accuracy by reducing the roundness error by up to 95.76%, depending on the printing orientation and cutting parameters. As a result, turning can serve as a method for the final machining of components manufactured using MEX technology.