Multijet Printing
MJP parts are built on a build plate surface. The part productivity depends upon the size of the object as it relates to the area of the build plate, the production time and finishing required.
Step 1
Printing
MJP involves the deposition of a liquid photopolymer through piezoelectric inkjet heads. The material is selectively deposits the part's slice sections on to the build platform in layers down to 16 microns thin. Each layer is subsequently cured via UV light, solidifying the material. A separate support material is laid down to carry any anticipated geometry above. This process repeats layer by layer until the part is complete.
Step 2
Support Removal
Manual Removal Initial bulk support material may be manually scraped off. Soluble Support Removal A core strength of MJP: waxy support material is removed via: Heated ovens or hot oil baths. Ultrasonic cleaning baths. Melt-away or solvent baths, depending on the model and support chemistry. Manual Cleaning Note: Fine details may require gentle brushing after support melt-out.
Step 3
Surface Finishing
Sanding / Polishing Optional; as-printed surface finish is already smooth, especially for visual models. Chemical Smoothing / Coating Rarely needed, but clear coats or paints may be added for aesthetics or functional use. Painting / Priming Common in presentation models or marketing prototypes. Gloss / Matte Control Controlled by material selection and coatings; naturally matte or satin, but can be polished or coated for gloss.
Step 4
Curing / Heat Treatment
UV / Thermal Curing Light UV post-curing may be applied, depending on material and geometry. Annealing / Stress Relief Non-applicable; parts are already dimensionally stable after curing.
Step 5
Assembly and Functional Finishing
Gluing or Bonding Easily glued with cyanoacrylate or UV-curable adhesives. Drilling / Tapping / CNC Possible for non-structural use, though parts are relatively soft compared to thermoplastics. Inserts / Fasteners Can be added manually; not recommended for load-bearing purposes.
Step 6
Special Treatments
Infiltration / Sealing Non-applicable for most parts, though some casting patterns may be dipped or sealed. Functional Coatings Can include primer, paint, or protective coatings for environmental resistance. Post-print Functionalisation – includes adding fasteners, painting, or using parts as investment casting patterns (especially for MJP wax models.
Step 7
Productivity
MJP parts are built on a build plate surface. The part productivity depends upon the size of the object as it relates to the area of the build plate, the production time and finishing required. This information relates to the potential productivity of a single machine. All AM types can be arranged together to form print farms or smart factories that will increase productivity. These collections of multiple units can also provide opportunities for varying degrees of automation.
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