Choosing the right material for 3D printing is a crucial step in executing any project. Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) technology offers advanced materials with varying properties and applications. The availability of diverse materials allows precise customization to match the specific requirements of a printed product, optimizing strength, flexibility, or chemical resistance.
At Fibometry, we combine advanced technology with scientific expertise, thanks to our qualified team of experts in materials science and 3D printing technologies. We thoroughly understand the properties of each material and are always ready to help you choose the best solution to deliver top-quality results.
In modern additive manufacturing, we use high-quality powders like PA12, PA11, and TPU, which are essential for the precision of Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) technology. The potential of these advanced 3D printing materials is almost limitless, enabling the creation of components with a wide range of properties from lightweight and flexible to resistant to high temperatures and chemicals. Our advanced HP printers utilize these materials to handle even the most complex projects, ensuring the highest quality prints.
Polyamide 12 (PA12) is the most commonly used material in MJF technology a versatile choice with an excellent quality-to-price ratio, especially for functional parts. It is suitable for a wide range of applications, from prototypes to final products with fine details and dimensional accuracy.
| advantages |
High mechanical strength: PA12 enables the production of dense, robust parts suitable for mechanically loaded components. Smooth surface: Prints made with PA12 are aesthetically pleasing and easy to finish, making it ideal for projects where appearance matters most. Low cost per unit: PA12 is perfect for serial production and prototyping due to its affordability. Chemical resistance: Prints are resistant to oils, greases, fats, and some solvents. Waterproof properties: PA12 is watertight without requiring additional post-processing. High production efficiency: Up to 80% of excess powder can be reused, reducing environmental impact and costs. Biocompatibility: Complies with USP Class I-VI standards and FDA guidelines for devices in contact with intact skin (based on HP tests from 2017). |
| disadvantages |
Limited flexibility: This is the primary drawback of PA12, making it unsuitable for applications requiring high elasticity. |
PA11 is a more flexible variant of PA12, ideal for applications where flexibility and impact resistance are critical, such as in the medical, sports, or automotive industries.
| advantages |
Improved flexibility: PA11 is better suited for parts requiring deformation. Impact resistance: It performs better under challenging mechanical conditions than PA12, making it ideal for producing prosthetics, shoe insoles, sports equipment, clips, and hinges. Low production costs: Up to 70% of excess powder can be reused, minimizing waste. Renewable source: Made from plant-based castor oil. |
| disadvantages |
Higher cost: PA11 is more expensive than PA12, limiting its use in low-budget projects. Rougher surface: Post-processing is more challenging compared to PA12 due to its less smooth texture. |
TPU is the material of choice for applications requiring flexibility, elasticity, and abrasion resistance. It is best suited for printing flexible parts that combine durability with flexibility and is particularly popular in the medical industry.
| advantages |
Exceptional flexibility and elasticity: TPU is ideal for seals, shock absorbers, and flexible components. High abrasion resistance: This makes TPU suitable for applications involving friction. Chemical resistance: TPU handles harsh chemical environments well. |
| disadvantages |
Reduced stiffness: TPU prints are unsuitable for components requiring high rigidity. Longer processing times: TPU requires specific printing parameters, achievable only with advanced HP printers. |
Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) technology is becoming increasingly popular due to its versatility, making it one of the most sought-after solutions for producing parts in the automotive, sports, and medical industries. Materials such as PA12, PA11, and TPU have been specially developed by HP to meet diverse application requirements with their exceptional properties.
| MATERIAL | PA12 | PA11 | TPU |
|---|---|---|---|
| EXTENSION | high | medium | medium |
| FLEXIBILITY | medium | high | very high |
| COST | low | medium | medium |
| CHEMICAL RESISTANCE | high | high | high |
| APPLICATION | prototypes, functional parts | automotive, medicine | absorbers, seals, medicine |
If you have any questions about choosing the right material for your project, contact us – we will help you select the best material to meet your project’s needs!
