Using a Torch...

I know for injection molds that use wax, you can clean up the surface and get it glossy by using a torch on the surface. Has anyone attempted this using PLA??

If so what are the results?

 

I've seen it attempted. Internals get soft and warp before the outside polishes smooth.

I also tried it with a plastic welder to similar end.

 

Boo. Thanks for the info. I'm still gonna have to try it out though lol

 

What about a heat gun? It has variable temperature settings and you could dial it into the perfect to and possibly use a putty knife / exact knife to smooth and get rid of hanging threads.


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Mike you were Correct!! I used a heat gun on low, to a piece that failed today, and the insides warped long before I was able to jet a nice shine. However I now have an idea for so abstract prints

 

I think printed solid's attempts with using MEK substitute show promise as a PLA smoothing agent.

The plastic welder I have is like a concentrated heat gun. Even with very high heat and low flow I couldn't get a smooth finish, just conducts heat too well I guess

 

http://makezine.com/projects/make-3...-and-post-processing-your-3d-printed-objects/
A good article on post printing finishing.
I have a small gas flame heater that I have been meaning to try. Concentrated very high temp.