The Complete Guide to Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D Printing

When it comes to additive manufacturing, it is safe to say that it is definitely not one size fits all. Though of course the basis of the technology, developing layer by layer, stays constant, the way of doing this certainly does not. Indeed, currently there are 7 additive manufacturing families that separate the processes: photopolymerization; material extrusion; Material Jetting; Binder Jetting; Powder Bed Fusion; Directed Energy Deposition; and sheet lamination. But sometimes there is one that does not quite fit into any of these. One notable example is Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) from HP.

Technically speaking, MJF belongs to the powder bed fusion family. This is unsurprising considering that the technology involves both a powder bed and fusing agents. But it also shares characteristics with other processes, notably Binder Jetting. We took a closer look at how the technology works, its benefits and limitations and applications.

Photo Credits: HP

How Does Multi Jet Fusion Work?

But what exactly is Multi Jet Fusion? Well the technology was created by HP in 2016, building upon the company’s expertise in inkjet printing and is compatible with both rigid and elastomeric polymers. Although relatively a newcomer on the 3D printing market (to compare, stereolithography and fused deposition modeling were both developed in the early 80s and many metal AM processes started to come out in the 90s), it is relatively popular, especially when it comes to creating highly accurate and durable polymer parts.