3D Print with HP's Multi Jet Fusion (MJF)

How Multi Jet Fusion Works

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) är en unik 3D-utskriftsteknik som bygger delar lager för lager, med hjälp av fina pulver och precisionskontroll av värme och medel. Här är en detaljerad översikt av MJF-processen:

1. Preparation and Loading

The Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D Printing Process Begins with Preparing the Build Module

• Powder Mixing: The Build Module is Filled with a Mixture of 80% Recycled Powder (from Previous Prints) and 20% New Powder. This Mixture is Critical to Maintaining Material Properties While Minimizing Waste.
• Powder Loading: This powder mixture is loaded into the build module to the desired height, which can be adjusted from 0 to 380 mm on the Z-axis. The loading process is automated to ensure consistent packing and distribution.

2. 3D Model Preparation

Before Printing, the 3D Model Must Be Prepared:

• Slicing of the Model: The 3D CAD model is sliced into thin layers (typically 80 microns thick). This slicing is crucial to translate the 3D design into a series of 2D layers.
• Arrangement and Nesting: Using specialized software, the parts are arranged within the build module in an orientation that maximizes space and minimizes print time. Similar to a 3D Tetris game, this step ensures optimal use of the build volume and efficient heat distribution.

3. 3D Printing Process

The MJF Printing Process is Characterized by its Precision and Speed:

• Layer Deposition: The printer spreads a thin layer of powder across the build area. Each layer is only 0.08 mm thick, ensuring high levels of detail and resolution.
• Agent Application: Special binding agents are precisely deposited onto the powder using inkjet printheads. Typically, there are two types of agents:
  • Fusing Agent: This agent is applied where the powder is to be melted to form the part. It enhances heat absorption.
  • Detailing Agent: Applied around the edges of the fusing agent, this material enhances details and resolution by cooling the surrounding powder, preventing it from melting and creating sharp edges.
• Energy Supply: Flash lamps pass over the powder bed, emitting infrared light that heats the fusing agent and the powder beneath it. The fusing agent absorbs the heat, melting the powder and binding it into a solid layer. The detailing agent ensures that only the targeted areas melt, preserving fine details and sharp edges.

4. Layer-by-Layer Building

This process is repeated layer by layer:

• Recoating: After each layer has been melted, a new layer of powder is spread over the build surface.
• Continued Melting: The fusing and detailing agents are applied again, and the flash lamps solidify the new layer, which bonds to the previously solidified layer.
• Building: The build module is gradually lowered with each new layer until the entire part or assembly is complete.

5. Cooling and Part Extraction

After printing is complete, the parts must cool down:

• Natural Cooling: The parts are left to cool naturally inside the build module. This process can take several hours, depending on the build size and material.
• Fast Cooling: Alternatively, rapid cooling can be used outside the printer to accelerate this step, reducing overall production time.

6. Post-Processing

After cooling, the parts undergo several post-processing steps:

• Powder Removal: The parts are extracted from the build module, and excess powder is removed using a vacuum cleaner or compressed air. The loose powder is collected and can be recycled for future prints.
• Cleaning: The parts are cleaned to remove any remaining powder, typically using methods such as bead blasting with glass beads.
• Finishing: Depending on the application, the parts may undergo additional processes such as polishing, coloring, grinding, threading, milling, or coating to achieve the desired surface finish and functionality.

Components of the HP Jet Fusion System

Components of the HP Jet Fusion 3D Printer System work together to ensure efficient and high-quality production:

• 3D Printer: The core of the system where the actual printing process occurs. It houses the powder bed, print heads, and heating elements (flash lamps).
• Build Modules: Modular containers that hold the powder and parts during the printing process. They are designed for easy loading, unloading, and transfer between the printer and processing station.
• Processing Station: A workstation where the build module is prepared and loaded with powder. It also serves as a location for unpacking and initial cleaning of printed parts. The processing station integrates functions such as powder mixing, loading, and recycling.

Introducing the HP MJF 4200 Series

The printers of the HP MJF 4200 series are designed to meet the needs of high-volume production environments. With a large build volume and lightning-fast print speeds, these machines are ideal for manufacturing end parts, prototypes, and functional prototypes with unparalleled efficiency. Key features of the 4200 series include:

• High Productivity: With accelerated build times and automated processes, the MJF 4200 series can produce parts up to 10 times faster than traditional 3D printing methods.
• Precision Engineering: Thanks to HP's advanced Jet Fusion technology, the 4200 series delivers parts with exceptional dimensional accuracy and surface finish, making them suitable for the most demanding applications.
• Scalability: Whether you're a small startup or a large enterprise, the modular design of the MJF 4200 series enables seamless scalability to meet your evolving production needs.

Introducing the HP MJF 5200 Series

Building on the success of the 4200 series, the HP MJF 5200 series takes additive manufacturing to new heights with enhanced capabilities and advanced features. Designed for industrial production, these printers deliver unmatched reliability, repeatability, and efficiency. Key highlights of the 5200 series include:

• Expanded Material Options: With support for a range of advanced engineering materials including PA 11, PA 12, and TPU, the MJF 5200 series offers unparalleled flexibility to create parts with diverse mechanical properties and performance characteristics.
• Improved Part Quality: Leveraging HP's latest innovations in thermal control and printing algorithms, the 5200 series delivers parts with enhanced isotropic strength, surface finish, and detail resolution, ensuring superior performance in real-world applications.
• Smart Manufacturing Integration: Equipped with advanced monitoring and connectivity features, the MJF 5200 series seamlessly integrates into Industry 4.0 workflows, enabling remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and digital inventory management.

Boost Your Production with HP Multi Jet Fusion Printers

Whether you're looking to streamline your manufacturing processes, accelerate time to market, or unlock new design possibilities, HP Multi Jet Fusion printers offer a revolutionary solution. With the MJF 4200 and 5200 series, you can unleash the full potential of additive manufacturing and stay ahead of the competition in today's fast-paced world.

Advanced Materials for Multi Jet Fusion

HP Multi Jet Fusion Technology Supports a Range of Advanced Materials, Each Suited for Different Applications:

PA12 (Nylon 12)

• Properties: PA12 is renowned for its high strength, chemical resistance, and low moisture absorption. It provides excellent dimensional stability and is suitable for parts requiring fine detail and durability.
• Applications: PA12 is commonly used in functional prototypes, complex assemblies, and end-use parts such as casings, connectors, and enclosures.
• PA12 is the most popular material for industrial 3D printing, used in 80-90% of applications. Most customers print with this material.

PA12 Glass Bead

• If you meant "PA12 Glass Bead," it typically refers to PA12 nylon material reinforced with glass beads. This type of material enhances the stiffness and dimensional stability of printed parts, making it suitable for applications requiring improved mechanical properties.
• Applications: Ideal for fixtures, jigs, and components that need to maintain precise dimensions under load.

PA11 (Nylon 11)

• Properties: PA11 is a bio-based nylon that offers superior impact resistance and flexibility compared to PA12. It is well-suited for applications requiring ductility and durability.
• Applications: Used in the automotive, aerospace, and medical industries for parts that need to withstand shocks and dynamic loads, such as hinges, clamps, and protective covers.

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

• Properties: TPU is valued for its elasticity, abrasion resistance, and shock absorption. It combines the flexibility of rubber with the strength and durability of plastic.
  Applications: Ideal for flexible parts such as seals, gaskets, ergonomic grips, and portable devices.

PP (Polypropylen)

• Properties: PP offers low density, excellent chemical resistance, and good fatigue resistance. It is a lightweight material that maintains flexibility and strength.
• Applications: Used for lightweight and durable components such as fluid systems, containers, and hinges.