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Multi Jet Fusion 3D-printing tech comes to Proto Labs

[Image credit: HP]

 

 

Rapid manufacturing specialist and service provider Proto Labs has added Multi Jet Fusion to its suite of 3D-printing technologies. The production-grade 3D-printing technology, developed by HP, builds fully functional plastic prototypes and production parts with accelerated speed, detailed precision, and consistent mechanical properties. The service uses a commercial-grade unfilled Nylon 12 material.

Due to Proto Labs' industrial 3D-printing expertise, HP selected the company as a foundational partner for its launch of Multi Jet Fusion technology. The collaboration is part of HP's efforts to establish a global network of 3D-printing service providers.

HP's Multi Jet Fusion technology uses an inkjet array to apply fusing and detailing agents across a bed of nylon powder, which are then fused by heating elements into a solid layer. The technology's unique approach to binding powder results in more isotropic material properties, faster build speeds, and, ultimately, lower costs compared to other powder-based 3D-printing processes.

When the build finishes, the entire powder bed with the encapsulated parts is moved to a processing station where a majority of the loose powder is removed by an integrated vacuum. Parts are then bead blasted to remove any of the remaining residual powder before ultimately reaching the finishing department where they can be dyed black to improve cosmetic appearance.

The Multi Jet Fusion process is capable of producing complex parts like this chain mail (left) or a part consisting of hinge and clip features. [Image credit: HP]

 

 

The technology is best suited for:

• Parts requiring consistent isotropic mechanical properties;
• Functional prototypes and end-use parts; and
• Complex and organic geometries with fine features.

VIDEO: How it works: HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D-printing tech.

Proto Labs has worked with select customers to optimize the Multi Jet Fusion process for its 3D-printing offering. "Before introducing any manufacturing process at Proto Labs, we execute thorough testing to develop a repeatable process and ensure we can meet our quality standards," said Greg Thompson, global product manager of 3D printing at Proto Labs. "We are extremely confident with the feature resolution and quality surface finishes we have seen with HP's Multi Jet Fusion and are excited to offer our customers another tool to accelerate product development and reduce manufacturing costs."

HP Jet Fusion 3D 4200 Solution. [Image credit: HP]

 

 

Proto Labs now offers five different industrial 3D-printing processes, producing plastic, metal, and elastomeric components in as fast as one day.

Source: Proto Labs

Published August 2017

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