This part was printed using HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology
Rapid manufacturing company Proto Labs (Maple Plain, MN) has announced the addition of HP’s Multi Jet Fusion to its suite of 3D printing technologies.
The production-grade technology builds fully functional plastic prototypes and production parts faster and cheaper than current 3D printing techniques, according to HP.
HP selected Proto Labs as a foundational partner for its launch of Multi Jet Fusion technology because of its industrial 3D printing expertise, said Proto Labs in making the announcement.
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 approach to binding powder results in more isotropic material properties, faster build speeds and, ultimately, lower costs compared with other powder-based 3D printing processes.
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.”
Proto Labs now offers five different industrial 3D printing processes, producing plastic, metal, and elastomeric components in as fast as one day.
