Multi Jet Fusion (MJF)
Multi Jet Fusion is an industrial additive manufacturing process that uses a powdered thermoplastic that a liquid agent and infrared energy precisely fuse. When the process is finished, parts are cleaned of excess powder and ready for use or a higher level of finish.
Multi Jet Fusion can be used for functional nylon prototypes and end-use parts. A few of the ideal applications are brackets, connectors, hinges, housings, and thin-wall ductwork. Multi Jet Fusion is also great for producing accurate parts in higher volumes.
Table of Contents
How Does Multi jet Fusion Work?
We input your CAD file into the machine, and the software breaks it down layer by layer. Then the device using an inkjet array, applies a fusing and detailing agent across a nylon powder bed, which is fused and solidified by heating elements. When the laser finishes, a roller rolls a new layer of powder onto the powder bed, and the process is repeated until the parts are complete.
After the build is finished, the whole powder bed is removed and taken to a breakout station where the parts are manually removed from the powder, and excess powder brushed off. Then they are placed into a container and blasted with a blasting medium to remove the remaining powder. After this step is complete, they are sent to the finishing department.
Note: Multi Jet Fusion does not need support structures.
What are the Ideal Applications For Multi Jet Fusion?
- Functional Prototyping
- Low-volume serial production runs for end-use parts that are cost-competitive to injection molded parts.
Multi Jet Fusion at Midwest Prototyping
OEM:
HP
Max Build Area:
14.96in x 11.18in x 14.96in
Lead Time:
1 – 3 Days
Material:
Nylon 12
Tolerances:
+/- .005 in. for the first inch and +/- .002 in. for each additional inch
Do you have a question about your design or materials that would fit your project? Email one of our Solutions Managers.
What is the Multi Jet Fusion Material offered at Midwest Prototyping?
Material
Description
Key Characteristics
More Information
Nylon 12 is a sturdy thermoplastic with exceptional physical properties.
- Chemical Resistant
- Good for Snap Fits
- Heat Resistant
- High Strength
- Impact Resistant
- Rigid
- UV Stability
Compare Materials
Best Practices For Design Parts for Multi Jet Fusion at Midwest Prototyping.
Feature
Measurement
Supported Walls
.02 in
Unsupported Walls
Supports not required
Supports & Overhangs
Supports not required
Embossing & Engraving
Width: .04 in, Height/Depth: .04 in
Horizontal Spans
Supports not required
Holes & Openings
.02 in
Connecting & Moving Parts
Moving: .012 in, Connecting: .006 in
Escape Holes
.04 in
Minimum Features
.03 in
Pin Diameter
.03 in
What are the Multi Jet Fusion Finishing Levels at Midwest Prototyping?
Level
Process
Description
1
Excess powder removed and lightly bead blasted
Standard finish: parts have visible layer lines and sandstone texture.
2
Excess powder removed, lightly bead blasted, and sealed to lessen porosity
Sealed finish: parts have visible layer lines, sandstone texture, and a slight gloss. Parts have a watertight finish.
2 +
Excess powder removed, lightly bead blasted, and cosmetic surfaces sanded to 180 grit
Functional finish: removes some layer lines. Parts have a light texture from sanding.
Excess powder removed, lightly bead blasted, and smoothed using PostPro3D
Automated finish: is used to perform physiochemical smoothing. Smoothed parts have an air-tight, injection molded like finish
3
Sealed, primed, or smoothed with PostPro3D and sanded to 320 grit
Near show quality finish: removes layer lines. Parts may have very fine scratches from sanding. Parts are prime and paint ready.
Are you ready to get your ideas made?
Our RFQ Team is standing by to give you a quote, and parts can be done in days, or contact one of our Solutions Managers for answers to a question!
