Multi Jet Fusion vs Selective Laser Sintering
Which one is right for your project? This guide explains when using MJF or SLS is the best fit for your parts.
Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) Services
Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) is a highly accurate additive manufacturing technology combining short lead times with high output in terms of volume. MJF is popular because it offers good mechanical properties and a low part cost.
How MJF works
Multi Jet Fusion is a powder bed fusion technology that builds up the manufactured parts layer-by-layer.
First, a movable unit distributes a thin layer of thermoplastic powder. Another movable unit, moving in the orthogonal direction, is equipped with two infrared lamps and a dosing system for the agents to be distributed on the powder bed. The first lamp preheats the powder bed to just below the melting point. Unlike other additive manufacturing technologies, MJF does not require an energy-consuming laser.
Next, the fusing and detailing agents are then applied. Finally, another fusing lamp is attached to this moving unit, fusing the powder to the underlying layer where the fusing agent was applied. This fusing agent increases the absorption of the material for infrared radiation and ultimately causes the grayish discoloration of the components. The detailing agent evaporates during this process and ensures no surrounding powder melts onto the contour. This process ensures sharp edges and dimensional accuracy.
This process begins again for the next layer.
MJF Use Cases
Multi Jet Fusion is usually used for prototypes and functional prototypes. This technology is especially suitable for prototypes that require good mechanical properties (e.g., prototypes for injection molding parts) or need to be used for testing. It is also capable of producing high-quality end-use parts. Plus, unused powder can partially be reused for the next production cycle
As most MJF materials are biocompatible, the technology is often used for orthotics and prosthetics.
MJF by the Numbers
Max Build Size
380 X 284 X 380 mm
Lead Times
Starting at 7 days
Minimum Wall Thickness
0.8 mm (material/geometry dependent)
Standard Color
Gray
Dimensional Accuracy
+/- 0.5% with a minimum of 0.3 mm
The two [MJF] prototypes we ordered from MakerVerse met all our requirements. This greatly benefits us, as getting our parts quickly helps us speed up our design and development process.
Martin Halama
Managing Director and Co-Founder at Hopper Mobility
Source Industrial-Grade MJF Parts
MakerVerse give you the flexibility to source parts however you need. Get instant quotes and quickly order parts with on-demand manufacturing. For sophisticated orders, our team of experts will work with you to develop, align and supervise a manufacturing quality plan from start to finish.
On-Demand Manufacturing
- Instant quoting and DFM checks
- Short lead times
- Fast and intuitive order placement
Production Orders
- Expert support from end-to-end
- Comprehensive manufacturing and quality plan
- Guaranteed quality meeting advanced specifications
Available MJF finishes
Blasted
An abrasive medium is applied to the component under high pressure. By using different media (e.g., corundum, sand or glass beads), functional (achieving a certain surface roughness) and optical (polishing the surface) finishing can be performed.
Color dyed
The plastic component is immersed in a water bath. The resulting chemical reaction causes the dye to penetrate the component. This provides homogeneous color gradient and an unchanging but more scratch-resistant surface.
Painted
Additional color is applied to the printed part, often by a professional spray-painting system. To get the desired output, the part is properly prepared through accurate cleaning and a clearcoat.
Sanded
Using sandpaper, sanding smooths the part and removes any obvious blemishes, such as support marks or blob. The chosen sandpaper depends on the layer height and print quality desired.
Sealed
The sealing process is performed with an aqueous solution to close the outer surface or skin of the part and fill in small pores. The sealing solution is either manually applied or dipped, depending on the part’s geometry.
Smoothed
In the smoothing process, the plastic component is reworked by a chemical reaction. The top layer of the component is dissolved by a medium in a solution bath and the result is a very smooth surface.
Tumbled
Parts are reworked by grinding media in a container, where they are deburred, finely ground, and polished by vibration or rotation of the container.
Blasted
An abrasive medium is applied to the component under high pressure. By using different media (e.g., corundum, sand or glass beads), functional (achieving a certain surface roughness) and optical (polishing the surface) finishing can be performed.
Color dyed
The plastic component is immersed in a water bath. The resulting chemical reaction causes the dye to penetrate the component. This provides homogeneous color gradient and an unchanging but more scratch-resistant surface.
Painted
Additional color is applied to the printed part, often by a professional spray-painting system. To get the desired output, the part is properly prepared through accurate cleaning and a clearcoat.
Sanded
Using sandpaper, sanding smooths the part and removes any obvious blemishes, such as support marks or blob. The chosen sandpaper depends on the layer height and print quality desired.
Sealed
The sealing process is performed with an aqueous solution to close the outer surface or skin of the part and fill in small pores. The sealing solution is either manually applied or dipped, depending on the part’s geometry.
Smoothed
In the smoothing process, the plastic component is reworked by a chemical reaction. The top layer of the component is dissolved by a medium in a solution bath and the result is a very smooth surface.
Tumbled
Parts are reworked by grinding media in a container, where they are deburred, finely ground, and polished by vibration or rotation of the container.
Popular MJF materials
What’s the best material for your project?
Use our interactive technology and material advisor to find out.
PA 11 
PA 12 TPU PA 11 PA 11
Main characteristics
An elongation at break up to 40 % (depending on build direction) combined with a high impact resistance makes PA 11 in MJF a desirable option for mechanically stressed parts. The material is made from a renewable raw material and is biocompatible, which means it is approved for skin contact, for example.Use cases
They mechanically stressed parts where high flexibility is needed. Typical use cases are functional prototypes or lower limb prosthetics.Lead time
7 days PA 12 PA 12
Main characteristics
PA12 can be well processed in the Multi Jet Fusion process with attractive costs and high reusability of already used powder. Components also have beautiful mechanical properties and provide chemical resistance, e.g., against oils and greases, which makes them suitable for functional parts.Use cases
Typical use cases are functional prototyping or printing of prosthetics and orthotics.Lead time
7 days TPU TPU
Main characteristics
TPU allows flexible elastomeric parts to be produced with the advantages of the MJF process. This material-process combination is ideal whenever high elasticity or shock absorption with high design freedom is required.Use cases
TPU is often used for robotic clamps or elastic covers and folding bellows. Another specific use case is for energy-absorbing parts that prevent accidents, like a helmet.Lead time
9 daysDid not find the material you are looking for?
We are constantly expanding and you can request specific materials going beyond our current standardized offering. Simply select “Other Material” in the order process and provide us your desired specifications in the comment section.
You can also reach out to us with your specific material requests at any time under support@makerverse.com
Additive Manufacturing Resources
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) Finishes Guide
Which post-processing option is right for your SLS part? This guide explains each option.
Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) Post Processing
Wondering which post-processing is suitable for your metal LPBF part? Learn about each option and determine the best choice for your project.
The Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) Design Guide
See the best practices for successfully designing parts for L-PBF, including print orientation, designing supports, and more.
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