As-Built Surface Topography
The forge scale equivalent is the rough surface of additively manufactured parts, resulting from adhering powder particles. It often requires post-surface treatments.
Physical-chemical mechanism
The sinter skin equivalent forms because powder particles accumulate on the surface of additively manufactured parts. These particles stay stuck and may partially melt, which leaves a rough surface.
Metallurgical relevance & welding risks
The rough surface can create stress and porosity that mess up the structure. That makes the part more prone to cracking and lowers its toughness. If you don't handle it right when welding, you can get hot cracks or uneven stress distribution.
Shop practice & how to handle it
To minimize the sinter skin equivalent, you should do surface treatments like machining or shot blasting after additive manufacturing. That improves surface quality and cuts down the risk of cracks and stress concentrations.