What AM post-processing technique is used to improve the physical and mechanical properties of metal parts?

Heat treatment is a crucial post-processing technique used to enhance the physical and mechanical properties of metal parts created through additive manufacturing (AM). This method involves controlled heating and cooling cycles, which can alter the microstructure of the metal and significantly improve characteristics such as strength, hardness, ductility, and fatigue resistance.

By subjecting metal parts to heat treatment, the crystalline structure can be modified, leading to better performance characteristics required for various applications. Different heat treatment processes, such as annealing, quenching, and tempering, can be tailored to achieve specific desired properties depending on the alloy and the application's requirements.

In contrast, other options like surface polishing primarily improve the surface finish rather than the inherent mechanical properties of the material. Powder coating focuses on adding a protective layer to increase resistance to corrosion and wear, while laser engraving is typically used for marking or aesthetic purposes rather than altering physical characteristics. Therefore, heat treatment stands out as the most effective technique for improving the mechanical properties of metal components after they are manufactured through additive techniques.