System and method for removing support structure from three-dimensional printed objects using microwave energy

A system for removing support material from a three-dimensional printed object comprising:

• a platen that supports the three-dimensional printed object having support material;
• a three port device having a first port, a second port, and a third port, the first port being configured to direct microwaves received by the first port from outside the three port device to the second port for emission from the second port and the second port being configured to direct microwaves received by the second port from outside the three port device to the third port;
• a susceptor operatively connected to the third port of the three port device;
• a temperature sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of a temperature of the susceptor;
• a microwave source configured to direct microwaves to the first port of the three port device for emission from the second port to irradiate the three-dimensional object having support material with the microwaves directed to the second port by the first port to heat the support material to a temperature at which the support material changes phase from a solid to a liquid to enable the liquid support material to flow away from the object;
• and
• at least one controller operatively connected to the temperature sensor and the microwave source, the controller being configured to operate the microwave source with reference to the signal generated by the temperature sensor.