Mechanical finishing & post-processing · finish comparison
Degating vs Trimming
Degating and Trimming are both 3d-print & moulding post-processing finishes; degating is the lower-cost option ($).
When to choose which
Choose Degating
Choose Degating when a discrete runner gate is being removed.
- Separates parts from runners
- Controls gate vestige
- Removes sharp gate remnants
Choose Trimming
Choose Trimming when flash or broad excess material rather than a discrete gate is removed.
- Removes molding flash and membranes
- Restores intended edge profile
- Clears holes and vents
What the numbers say
- Degating is the lower-cost option ($).
Scores side by side
Each score is 0–100 against every finish in this catalog. Corrosion is derived from salt-spray test duration and surface hardness from the finish layer's Vickers hardness where a measured figure exists; a finish that leaves the base metal's own surface is not rated for hardness. Cosmetic, lubricity and cost are FabDigit's engineering assessment. Scores and typical figures are screening data, not matched side-by-side tests or service-life rankings; ASTM B117 is a controlled salt-fog method, not a field-life prediction.
| Score | Degating | Trimming |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion resistance | 0 Minimal | 0 Minimal |
| Surface hardness / wear | — — | — — |
| Cosmetic quality | 10 Minimal | 10 Minimal |
| Lubricity | 0 Minimal | 0 Minimal |
| Cost | 8 $ | 8 $ |
Key numbers
| Property | Degating | Trimming |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 0 µm | 0 µm |
| Electrical | Unchanged | Unchanged |
| Relative cost | Budget ($) | Budget ($) |
| Added lead time | 0–1 working days | 0–2 working days |
| RoHS | Compliant | Compliant |
| Instant quote | Yes | Yes |
Bold marks the side that is ahead on a row where more (or less, for cost and lead time) is better. Ranges are the typical specification window; the drawing call-out fixes the class.
Which materials take each finish
| Material family | Degating | Trimming |
|---|---|---|
| Polymer | Yes | Yes |
| Polyurethane | Yes | Yes |
| Silicone | With care | Yes |
| Zinc Alloy | Yes | Yes |
| Composite | — | With care |
| Aluminum | Limited | Limited |
| FDM | No | Limited |
| SLA | Limited | Limited |
Degating vs Trimming — frequently asked
What is the difference between Degating and Trimming?
Degating and Trimming are both 3d-print & moulding post-processing finishes; degating is the lower-cost option ($).
When should I use Degating instead of Trimming?
Choose Degating when a discrete runner gate is being removed. Conversely: choose Trimming when flash or broad excess material rather than a discrete gate is removed.
Is Degating or Trimming cheaper?
Degating is the lower-cost finish ($ against $ for Trimming) among the finishes FabDigit quotes. Both are priced per part with a lot minimum; the exact figure appears on the instant quote once the part is uploaded.