05-17-2016: HP presented the first 3D printers using Multi Jet Fusion technology
The premiere took place 18 months after the early concept presentation that took place in New York
On May 17, 2016 HP presented its first two 3D printing systems – the HP Jet Fusion 3200 and the HP Jet Fusion 4200. The premiere took place at the company's 3D printing center in Barcelona, Spain, 18 months after the loud premiere of an early 3D printer concept that took place in New York.
The 3D printers have become the first industrial alternatives to the SLS method, which allowed for the dynamic development of techniques based on powdered polymers and faster implementation of 3D printing by the manufacturing industry.
HP Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) was a breakthrough 3D printing technology patented by Hewlett Packard. It involves bonding plastic powders using a movable, precise thermal head and printing heads that apply two types of agents supporting the printing process. The use of polyamide powders as a model material allows for achieving excellent mechanical properties that meet design requirements in many industries.
HP MJF 3D printing involves the layered consolidation of plastic powders. The pre-heated powder is applied to the work area using a roller. Then, the print head applies two types of agents supporting the 3D printing process.
The first one - fusing agent - is dosed in the model areas, and its properties multiply the absorption of thermal radiation. The second one - detailing agent - is applied to the external contours of the elements to make it easier to separate the unbaked powder and increase the accuracy of the file reproduction.
After applying the agents, a special heating head passes over the material layer, melting the model layer, and then the process is repeated for the next layer until the final geometry is obtained.
Source: www.tctmagazine.com