PolyJet is a powerful 3D printing technology that produces smooth, accurate parts, prototypes and tooling. With microscopic layer resolution and accuracy down to 0.1 mm, it can produce thin walls and complex geometries using the widest range of materials available with any technology.

PolyJet builds parts with photopolymer resins. Photopolymers or photocurable materials come in many different compositions, from flexible to rigid, transparent to opaque. Polyjet also has the capability of creating over molded parts, moving assemblies, and multiple material property components from over 350,000 digital material options.

Proven PolyJet™ 3D Printing is famous for smooth surfaces, fine precision and diverse material properties. It works a bit like inkjet document printing, but instead of jetting drops of ink onto paper, the print head jets microscopic layers of liquid photopolymer onto a build tray and instantly cures them with UV light. The fine layers build up to create a prototype or production part.

Along with the selected model material, the 3D printer also jets a gel-like support material designed to uphold overhangs. When printing is done, the nontoxic support material is easily removed with a water jet. Models can be handled and used immediately, without additional post-curing.

With its astonishingly realistic aesthetics and ability to deliver special properties such as transparency, flexibility and even biocompatibility, PolyJet 3D Printing offers a competitive edge in consumer products prototyping, precision tooling and specialized production parts.

BENEFITS

• Create smooth, detailed prototypes that convey final-product aesthetics.
• Produce accurate molds, jigs, fixtures and other manufacturing tools.
• Achieve complex shapes, intricate details and delicate features.
• Incorporate the widest variety of colors and materials into a single model for unbeatable efficiency.

 

	FDM	POLYJET
Application	Ability to produce durable parts that are ready for end-use applications	Ability to create parts with great intricacy and exceptional detail –> great choice for concept models
Material	Ability to choose from different thermoplastics that can withstand a wide variety of elements, from extreme temperatures to exposure to certain chemicals	Ability to produce small features and fine textures, a variety of flexibilities, from rubber-like parts to those that have a more rigid feel.
Aesthetics/Surface Finish	Produce parts with complex geometries and intricate components.	For concept modeling and some prototypes where surface finish and aesthetics can be crucial
Part Size	Can be built up to 36 x 24 x 36 in	Can be built up to 39.3 x 31.4 x 19.6 in

Both technologies have their strengths and limitations; it is ultimately up to how the part will be used when determining what technology to choose. If you are looking for high-resolution, ultra-fine parts, PolyJet is a great option. However, if durability and end-use function in extreme conditions are important to you, FDM is your best bet.