What’s possible with HP Multi Jet Fusion technology?
Topic
It has been billed as a disruptive 3D printing technology for a new era of manufacturing, and HP Multi Jet Fusion applications are already delivering on their promise of faster, more material-efficient, and more detailed parts without compromise compared to traditional component manufacturing techniques. But how does it work? And what are the true benefits? Here is a quick dive into HP MJF technology and the possibilities it opens up.
How is Multi Jet Fusion Different from Other 3D Printing Techniques?
In practice, HP MJF produces parts in a similar way to the long-established Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) technology, adding sequential layers of polymer powder into a build chamber.
Like SLS technologies, the feedstock comes in the form of powder which is spread in a thin layer (approximately 80 microns) across the build platform before being melted in predetermined areas. Another layer of powder is added and selectively fused to the layer below, building up Multi Jet Fusion parts layer by layer.
The big difference is that MJF is a more advanced technique, allowing greater speed and precision during the printing process. Instead of using a laser to fuse parts, HP’s patented process jets a fusing agent onto the powder surface before using a high-powered heat lamp to selectively fuse each layer together.
What Are the Benefits?
The main advantage over SLS technology is speed. HP Multi Jet Fusion applications enable the production of high-quality functional MJF parts up to ten times faster than many other 3D printing solutions available today, without the expected increase in cost.
Like SLS, the technology can manufacture parts in volume within a three-dimensional build space without requiring support structures. However, parts produced using MJF offer more uniform mechanical properties and greater detail thanks to the application of a detailing agent around the edges of each part.
In addition, because the technology is built upon decades of HP’s expertise in inkjet printing, material science and imaging, HP MJF continues to benefit from ongoing technological advancements and an expanding range of compatible engineering materials.
What Are the Possibilities?
Bowman 3D uses HP MJF technology to manufacture components primarily in PA11, while PA12, PA12 GB (glass-filled) and TPU are also available. These materials make the process ideal for a wide range of MJF applications, including end-use engineering components, prototypes, tooling and production parts.
Standard finishes include natural, dyed, vibro-polished, or a combination of both, while bespoke painted finishes and specialist coatings can also be supplied.
The general tolerance for parts manufactured in PA11 is ±0.3 mm or 0.3% (whichever is greater). In reality, significantly tighter tolerances can often be achieved for smaller components.
Part sizes are limited by the build volume dimensions of 380 mm × 284 mm × 380 mm. However, larger components can often exceed one of these dimensions by optimising the build orientation. Where required, we can also help redesign larger components into smaller assemblies for efficient manufacture.
Whether you require nylon 3D printing for prototypes or production-ready functional MJF parts, Bowman 3D can help deliver high-quality, repeatable solutions for demanding engineering applications.
