HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D Printer Review

Additive manufacturing has revolutionized the way industries approach production, with HP’s Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) technology standing out as a leading solution. Whether you’re new to 3D printing or an experienced professional, understanding how MJF works, the materials it uses, and its post-processing techniques can help you unlock its full potential. 

This article will explore these and other topics to illustrate why MJF is the ideal solution for manufacturing end-use parts.

HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D Printer Review

HP Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) is an advanced 3D printing technology that uses a unique process to create high-quality parts quickly and efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how MJF works:

• Layer Application: The process begins with a thin layer of powder spread across the build platform.
• Jetting Agents: Specialized inkjet arrays apply fusing and detailing agents across the powder bed. The fusing agent is applied where the powder needs to solidify, while the detailing agent is used to enhance part definition and surface quality.
• Fusion: Infrared lamps pass over the build area, causing the fusing agent to absorb heat and solidify the powder, layer by layer.
• Layer-by-Layer Build: This process is repeated, building up the part layer by layer until the entire object is complete.

This innovative approach enables the production of parts with fine detail, high strength, and excellent surface finish. 

How do we know all this? UPTIVE is the second-largest HP MJF service provider in the United States—and experts in HP Multi Jet Fusion. We consistently meet the high quality and stability standards that HP demands (and verifies) of its partners for solutions engineering, production capacity, consistency, and repeatability of parts. With this 3D printing solution, we can help guide your engineering teams to achieve increased design innovation and value in the product design process.

Access HP MJF with UPTIVE

HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D Printer Specs

Understanding the technical specifications is critical when choosing a 3D printer. These details help you evaluate whether the printer meets your manufacturing needs, from part size and speed to software compatibility and energy requirements. There are four different models of HP MJF 3D printers available, each suited best for specific applications:

• HP Jet Fusion 5600 Series 3D Printer: Ideal for final parts production environments producing 550+ parts per week.
• HP Jet Fusion 5400 Series 3D Printer: Ideal for white applications – final parts production environments producing 500+ parts per week.
• HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D Printer: Ideal for final parts production environments producing 200+ parts per week. 
• HP Jet Fusion 500 3D Printer: Ideal for industrial prototyping and final part production environments producing up to 200 parts per week. 

This overview provides key specifications for the HP Multi Jet Fusion 5600 Series 3D printers. Technical specifications can be found on HP’s website for other MJF 3d Printers, including the 5400 Series, the 5200 Series, and the 5000. 

Printer Performance

HP MJF 5600 3D printers deliver precise, high-quality parts at a competitive speed, making them suitable for various applications.

• Effective Build Volume: 380 x 284 x 380 mm (15 x 11.2 x 15 in)
• Humidity: 40-80%
• Building Speed: Up to 3,466cm³/hr (211 in³/hr)
• Layer Thickness: 0.09 mm (.0035 in)
• Resolution: 1200 dpi

Dimensions and Weight

The printer’s physical dimensions and weight are important for planning workspace and logistics. 

• Dimensions: 2210 x 1268 x 1804 mm (87 x 50 x 71 in)
• Operating Area: 3700 x 3700 x 2500 mm (146 x 146 x 99 in)
• Shipping Dimensions: 2300 x 1325 x 2027 mm (91 x 52 x 80 in)
• Printer Weight: 880 kg (1940 lb)
• Shipping Weight: 1037 kg (2287 lb)

Network, Hardware and Software

Understanding connectivity and software compatibility matters for proper setup and integration with existing tools.

• Network Connection: Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Base-T), supporting the following standards: TCP/IP, DHCP (IPv4 only), TLS/SSL
• Processor: Intel Core 17 7770 (3.6GHz, up to 4.2GHz)
• Memory: 64 GB DDR4
• Hard Disk: 1 TB HDD SED (AES-256 encrypted); 1 TB SDD SED (AES-256 encrypted), TGC-OPAL 2.01 compliant
• Integrated Software: HP SmartStream 3D Build Manager, HP SmartStream 3D Command Center, HP 3D Center, HP 3d APO, HP 3D Process Development
• Certified Third-Party Software: Autodesk® Netfabb® with HP Workspace, Materialize Build Processor for HP Multi Jet Fusion technology, Siemens NX AM for HP Multi Jet Fusion technology
• Supported File Formats: 3MF, STL, OBJ, and VRML (v2.0)

Power Requirements

Power specifications are key to assessing facility readiness and projecting operational costs. 

• Power Consumption: 12 kW
• Requirements: 380-415 V (line-to-line), 50A max, 50/60Hz; 200-240V (line-to-line), 80A max, 50/60Hz

HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D Printer Speed

Speed is another key factor for those considering the HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D printer. Here’s how it performs:

• Building Speed: The HP Jet Fusion 5600 reaches speeds up to 3,466cm³/hr (211 in³/hr). These speeds allow for faster part production than other additive manufacturing technologies. 
• Optimized Processes: The printer features calibrated print modes and process improvements for consistent speed across different builds and part geometries.
• Continuous Operation: Automation capabilities, including automated build unit exchange, minimize downtime and allow for uninterrupted production cycles. 

While speed is one of the printer’s strengths, it’s important to consider factors like part complexity, material selection, and packing density, as these can influence print times. 

HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D Print Quality

The HP MJF 5600 3D printer series delivers high-quality parts suitable for end-use applications. Key aspects of its print quality include:

• Detail: The system uses advanced fusing and detailing agents to create accurate, sharp edges and smooth surfaces, even on intricate designs. 
• Consistency: Parts exhibit uniform mechanical properties and isotropy, making them reliable for functional applications like automotive components or consumer products. 
• Material Options: The printer supports engineering-grade materials, including flame-retardant and low-cost options, ensuring parts meet specific performance requirements.
• Repeatability: Calibrated print modes and hardware reliability ensure consistent results across builds for scalable production environments. 

Remember that the final print quality depends on factors like material selection and pint settings, so users should adjust these based on their specific needs.

What Materials Does HP Multi Jet Fusion MJF Use?

HP Multi Jet Fusion is compatible with a variety of materials, each suited to different applications. The most commonly used materials include:

Material	Description	Ideal for	Finishes
PA-11	Tough and flexible material that has good impact resistance and low friction properties	Gears, bearings, and other components	Dyeing, Painting Coating, Electroplating Vapor Smoothing
PA-12	Tough and durable material that has good chemical resistance and low friction properties	Housings, brackets, and other components	Dyeing, Painting Coating, Electroplating Vapor Smoothing
PA-12 Full Color	Full-color PA-12 material that has similar properties to PA-12	Prototypes, models, and other components	Vapor Smoothing
PA-12 Glass Bead	Glass-bead-filled PA-12 material that has improved stiffness and dimensional stability	Gear, bearings, and other components	Dyeing, Painting Coating, Electroplating Vapor Smoothing
Polypropylene	Lightweight and affordable material that has good chemical resistance and low friction properties	Housings, brackets, and other components	Vapor Smoothing
TPA	Flexible and strong material that has good chemical resistance and toughness	Gaskets, seals and other flexible components	Vapor Smoothing, Dyeing, Painting Coatings
TPU	Flexible and rubber-like material that has good impact resistance and toughness	Gaskets, seals, and other flexible components	Vapor Smoothing, Dyeing, Painting Coatings

HP Multi Jet Fusion MJF Post-Processing Work

Post-processing in MJF is crucial for enhancing the final product’s appearance and performance. The steps involved include:

• Cooling: Once the printing process is complete, parts are left to cool within the build chamber to prevent warping and ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Depowdering: Excess powder is removed using brushes, compressed air, or automated systems. The leftover powder can often be recycled for future prints.
• Surface Finishing: Depending on the application, parts may undergo additional finishing processes such as bead blasting, tumbling, or chemical smoothing to improve surface texture and appearance.
• Dyeing or Painting: Parts can be dyed or painted to achieve the desired color and aesthetic finish.
• Thermal Treatment: In some cases, thermal treatments like annealing may be applied to relieve internal stresses and improve mechanical properties.

What Are the Advantages of HP MJF?

HP Multi Jet Fusion offers several distinct advantages over traditional and other additive manufacturing techniques:

• Speed: MJF can produce parts significantly faster than many other 3D printing methods, making it suitable for both prototyping and production.
• Detail and Precision: The technology allows for high-resolution printing, capable of producing intricate details and fine features.
• Mechanical Properties: Parts produced with MJF exhibit excellent mechanical properties, including strength, durability, and impact resistance.
• Material Efficiency: The ability to recycle unused powder reduces material waste and overall production costs.
• Scalability: MJF is highly scalable, making it ideal for small to medium-sized production runs without compromising quality or speed.

Why Is MWhy Is HP MJF Ideal for Manufacturing End-Use Parts?JF Ideal for Manufacturing End-Use Parts?

HP Multi Jet Fusion is particularly well-suited for manufacturing end-use parts for several reasons:

• Cost-Effectiveness: For low to medium production volumes, MJF offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional manufacturing methods like injection molding.
• Customization: The technology supports mass customization, allowing for the production of tailored parts without additional tooling costs.
• Functional Prototypes: MJF can quickly produce functional prototypes that can be used for testing and validation before mass production, reducing the time to market.
• Durability: The materials used in MJF are designed to withstand rigorous use, ensuring that end-use parts meet high standards of performance and longevity.
• Complex Geometries: MJF can produce complex geometries that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing techniques, opening up new design possibilities.

The Bottom Line on the HP Multi Jet 3D Printer 

HP Multi Jet Fusion is a versatile and powerful 3D printing solution that offers numerous benefits for manufacturing end-use parts. Its speed, precision, material efficiency, and ability to produce durable, high-quality components make it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re looking to prototype quickly or scale up production, MJF provides a reliable and efficient path to success. 

But pulling the trigger on such a significant investment can also feel daunting. Even with enough research, there’s simply no substitute for the hands-on experience of trying a 3D printer–before you buy it. Remember that the challenges don’t simply stop once you select and purchase the right printer–ongoing maintenance will be imperative for performance, especially for such a costly and likely essential asset. Ultimately, the risks of buying a 3D MJF printer can quickly outweigh the benefits without the proper resources and expertise. 

At UPTIVE, we’re committed to removing these barriers and making HP Multi Jet Fusion technology accessible, efficient, and stress-free for manufacturers. As the second-largest HP MJF service provider in the US, we’re experts in HP Multi Jet Fusion–so you don’t have to be. 

From 3D printing services and traditional manufacturing to prototypes and large-scale production runs, our team works with you every step of the way to bring your vision to life. Combining advanced technology with expert guidance, UPTIVE can help you achieve custom, production-quality parts faster and with more precision.

Partnering with UPTIVE means you can:

• Make the best products: Create highly accurate parts with intricate details, complex features, and superior mechanical properties. Customize your designs with a wide selection of materials, colors, textures, and surface treatments. 
• Improve your operations: Reduce production time and costs with expert feedback on streamlining workflows and refining designs for cost-effectiveness and manufacturability before production. Bring ideas to life with production-quality parts that meet strict standards in as little as two days–no tooling required. 
• Plan for the future: Let UPTIVE handle production while you stay focused on innovation. Get ongoing support to refine materials and processes for scalability and long-term success. 

Ready to start your HP MJF project? We’ll help you harness the power of advanced HP 3D printing technology for rapid, functional parts with superior finishes and strength. 

Get started here!

FAQs About HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D Printer

What is the resolution of HP Multi Jet Fusion?

The HP MJF 5600 3D printer offers a resolution of 1200 dpi in the X and Y axes for fine details and precise geometries suitable for prototyping and end-use applications. 

What is the build volume of HP Multi Jet Fusion?

The effective build volume of the HP MJF 3D printer is 380 x 284 x 380 mm (15 x 11.2 x 15 in), which can accommodate larger parts or multiple smaller parts in a single print job for optimal production efficiency. 

What is the difference between FDM and the Multi Jet Fusion?

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) use different processes to create parts, which means each is often better suited to specific applications. 

• Technology: FDM extrudes heated thermoplastic filament layer by layer and is ideal for printing larger parts using a wide range of materials. Meanwhile, MJF uses a powder-based material fused with heat and detailing agents and is ideal for printing products with consistent results and precise control. 
• Applications: MJF is best suited for quickly producing parts with smooth finishes and consistent mechanical properties. FDM is best suited for prototyping, larger builds, and industrial applications.
• Material Options: FDM offers a variety of specialized materials, including UV-resistant and flame-retardant options. MJF focuses on materials that provide excellent isotropy and durability for smaller-scale, highly detailed projects. 

Both FDM and MJF can be valuable manufacturing and prototyping tools, depending on your needs. At UPTIVE, we provide expert guidance to help you choose the right process for your project, whether it’s MJF or FDM. Then, we’ll guide you through every step of the 3D printing process and beyond.