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What is the difference between Top Black and Soft Touch Black finishes?

Here are the main differences between our best-selling finishes!

To make your MJF printed components more attractive, we have the possibility to colour them with two different finishes, which we suggest you take a look at on this page

We particularly suggest you check out our two best-seller finishes and here we clarify any doubts so that you don't have to worry about confusing them when purchasing. 

  • TOP BLACK™

This is an impregnation dye, in black, that colours the entire surface of the printed part without compromising its mechanical properties and aesthetic details.

The final part is a uniform deep black colour with a semi-glossy appearance. 

❗Top Black Dyeing does not change the general tolerances of the part as it does not add/remove material. 

top black finish

  • SOFT TOUCK BLACK PAINTING

Soft Touch Black finish is a paint that is sprayed onto the parts.
It consists of several layers of different substances that create the special "velvet effect" on the part.
This provides a smooth, uniform surface that makes the components indistinguishable from injection-moulded counterparts.
The main limitation of this finish lies in the thickness required to achieve uniform coverage as well as tactile feel. In fact, a few tenths of thickness is added, which must be taken into account at the design stage to allow for subsequent fittings and assembly.
soft touch black finish

❗This finish is not recommended for small parts as it can be complex to secure them during the painting process.

Finally, the sprayed paint may not reach:

- Undercut surfaces;

- Holes deeper than 5 times the diameter, which won't be fully covered;

- Holes smaller than 5 mm in diameter, which may remain occluded;

In addition, engraved and embossed lettering is not recommended because it may be partially or totally covered.