Advantages & Disadvantages of Multi Jet Fusion 3D Printing //
Before you select MJF for your project, you will want to become familiar with the benefits and limitations.
Advantages Include //
- Smooth Surface Finish // There are no markings left from removing supports because no support material is needed. The result is a smoother surface with the possibility for crisp edges.
- Cost-Effective // Multi Jet Fusion can be cheaper than other additive manufacturing processes.
- Faster Turnaround // Multi Jet Fusion is a faster process because, during the printing process, the entire layer is heated. This is different from an SLS process where a laser traces the area.
- Eco-Friendly // MJF printers reuse any leftover excess powder, resulting in less waste.
Disadvantages Include //
- Limited Material Choices: Nylon 12 is only Multi Jet Fusion option.
Multi Jet Fusion vs. Selective Laser Sintering //
During Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), powdered material is laid down in a thin layer on the build platform. Each cross-section is scanned by a CO2 laser which sinters the material. The platform shifts down one layer and repeats until the part has been made. The part is then removed from the platform after the bin has cooled.
While both Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) use a thermoplastic polymer powder material, there are differences. The primary difference is the source of heat used during the process. SLS uses lasers to heat each cross-section. MJF uses a fusing agent (ink) distributed onto the powder while an infrared light passes over the platform and fuses the areas that have been inked. Additionally, fusing during MJF happens in a line while SLS fuses each cross-section point by point. While the excess unused material in both technologies can be salvaged and recycled, a greater amount is retrieved by Multi Jet Fusion. Another difference is color. SLS parts are printed in white and then dyed. They may also be gray. MJF parts are printed in light gray and can be dyed black. Both technologies end up with a grainy finish but can achieve a high standard of quality during post-processing.
Multi Jet Fusion Questions Answered //
Q // Who Invented Multi Jet Fusion?
A // Multi Jet Fusion was developed by Hewlett-Packard (HP).
Q // What Geometries Can Be Achieved With Multi Jet Fusion?
A // Parts that require internal cavities and complex geometries can be made using Multi Jet Fusion.
Q // What Color Options Are Available & What Is The Surface Finish Like?
A // Parts produced are a non-uniform light gray and can be dyed in dark colors to achieve a uniform appearance (choosing to dye parts will extend lead-time). These parts will feel grainy, similar to other power-based systems such as SLS, but can be further post-processed if desired.
Q // What Are Part Size Limitations?
A // The bounding //box of the 3D printing system is 284mm x 380mm x 380mm (11.18″ x 14.96″ x 14.96″). Parts beyond this size can be split and adhered together during post-processing.
Q // What Is The Standard Accuracy, Layer Height & Minimum Feature Or All Size?
A // Expect an accuracy of +/-0.3mm up to 100mm or +/-0.003 mm per mm beyond 100mm. The layer height is 80 microns. Fathom recommends a wall thickness minimum of 1mm.
Q // What Is The Minimum Gap/Hole Size? Can You Tap Threads? What Is The Minimum Thread Size?
A // Minimum gap is typically 0.5mm between features. For tapping threads, Fathom suggests using threaded inserts for anything under ¼-20 threads.
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