HP Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF)
Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF) is a relatively new industrial 3D printing technology developed by HP. The fundamental operating principles are similar to other 3D printing technologies in that it builds a 3D model by stacking layers on top of each other. However, what makes MJF unique is how the individual layers are formed.
The process starts with the raw material as a very fine powder rather than a filament or liquid form that is used with other 3D printing technologies. The powder is loaded into the printer via a build unit and a recoating system transfer and generates a very fine layer over the build area - typically around 80 to 110 microns in height. A carriage housing several industrial printheads passes over the powder and jets a fusing agent to generate a cross-sectional layer of the models being printed. Finally, a high power lamp is passed over the build area which allows the combination of powder and agent to absorb energy that fuses into a solid part. The printer continuously monitors and controls the entire process using a camera system and an array of heat lamps to ensure thermal control.
In basic principle, the multi-jet fusion process is relatively simple and very similar to another powder based 3D printing technology that uses lasers to fuse each layer - selective laser sintering (SLS). However, in practice there are a lot of technical challenges that have to be overcome to ensure reliability and repeatability. With these challenges solved, the MJF process is able to provide a lot of operational benefits over SLS - most notably a much faster production speed. Because of this speed, HP has lead the industry in the initiative to help propel 3D printing into full scale manufacturing. With this technology we are capable of producing 100,000s of parts within months, weeks, or even days with zero upfront cost and with quality and strength that is similar to injection molding.
We are proud to be the only member of HP's Multi-Jet Fusion Digital Manufacturing Network (DMN) within the state of Texas and the southern US region. As a member of this program, we are certified by HP to guarantee the highest part quality and we have production volumes that allow us to reduce operating costs and provide the most competitive pricing possible.
One benefit of multi-jet fusion technology is the workflow and material processing station that HP has also developed. This is a separate piece of equipment that allows the raw powder material to be safely handle and accurately mixed for each build. The only downside is this does means that switching between material and preventing cross contamination can be complex and expensive. For this reason, many MJF service providers only offer a limited number of materials. However, we've invested in a fleet of dedicated processing stations in order to provide one of the most comprehensive MJF material selections within North America - including PA12, PA11, PA12GB, PA12W, PA12W, TPU, and TPA.
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Materials: PA12, PA11, PA12GB, PA12FC, PA12W, TPU, TPA
Standard Dimensional Accuracy: ± 0.3% with a lower limit of ± 0.3 mm (± 0.012")
Post Processing Options: Threaded Inserts, Polishing, Vapor Smoothing, Cerakote
Design & Production Considerations:
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Unlike FDM which typically produces part with less strength in the Z axis than the X-Y axis, the multi-jet fusion process yields a near isotropic strength, allowing for more design freedom and parts that perform similar to traditional injection molded parts
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Utilizing the HP 580 MJF printer, full color can be applied during the printing process directly to the surface of the part which allows for unique design features such as logos, QR codes, safety marking, etc.
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No support material required - allows for much more complex geometries and more consistent surface finish than FDM or SLA
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Models that have any fully sealed internal cavities will trap unfused powder unless there are holes or other features added to allows for powder removal during post processing
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Pricing is most directly related to the volume and surface area of a model making large and dense parts less economical - light weighting design techniques can significantly reduce cost and provide other functional benefits without sacrificing mechanical strength
Ideal Applications:
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Custom fit orthotic and prosthetic devices
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Low to high volume production of end-use functional parts
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Prototyping or production of parts that require a cosmetic finish that is similar to injection molding
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Art pieces, architecture models, or consumer products that require durable parts in full color
Example Gallery:
