Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D Printing Service
How can you manufacture functional plastic parts in industrial quality – without waiting weeks for tooling? Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) is an industrial 3D printing process that enables prototypes and production parts with high dimensional accuracy, isotropic properties, and short lead times. Through MakerVerse, you can order MJF parts online and receive an instant quote with a binding fixed price.
How Multi Jet Fusion works
The MJF Process Step by Step
Multi JetFusion builds parts layer by layer from fine PA powder. The entire process runs fully automatically and requires no support structures – the unfused powder in the bed supports every part throughout production.
- Apply powder layer: A thin layer of PA powder (e.g., PA 12 or PA 11) is evenly spread across the build platform.
- Preheat build chamber: The entire build chamber is heated to just below the material’s melting temperature to create optimal fusion conditions.
- Apply agents via inkjet: Print heads selectively deposit the fusing agent (a heat-conductive liquid) onto the areas to be fused. At the same time, the detailing agent (heat-inhibiting) is placed along the contours.
- Infrared lamp fuses the powder: An IR lamp passes over the layer. The fusing agent absorbs the heat and selectively fuses the particles. The detailing agent prevents fusion at the edges and evaporates.
- Lower build platform: The platform descends by one layer thickness (~80 µm), and a new powder layer is applied.
- Repeat until part is complete: The process repeats layer by layer until all parts are fully built.
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✓ No laser required: MJF uses fusing and detailing agents combined with infrared light – enabling faster layer fusion than laser-based processes.
✓ Isotropic part properties: Parts are approximately 98% isotropic – uniform strength in all directions.
✓ Production-ready without tooling costs: Ideal for small batches of 50–5,000 parts without injection molding tooling.
✓ Fast availability: MJF parts can be ordered online through MakerVerse with lead times starting at 7 days – including an instant quote.
Advantages of MJF for Industrial Applications
Multi Jet Fusion combines four key advantages that make the process particularly attractive for the industrial manufacturing of plastic parts.
Speed & Throughput
Instead of fusing point by point, MJF fuses entire layers simultaneously. In a 12-hour build cycle, 180–200 parts can be produced – an average of just 3–4 minutes per part.
Isotropic Mechanical Properties
MJF parts achieve approximately 98% isotropy. Strength and stiffness remain nearly independent of direction. In comparison, SLS parts exhibit significantly stronger anisotropic properties, which limits design freedom.
Cost Efficiency
Up to 80% of unused powder can be reused. With no tooling and no setup costs, MJF is particularly economical for small and medium production volumes of 50–5,000 parts. The environmental benefits also speak in favor of the process.
Fine Details & Dimensional Accuracy
With 1,200 dpi resolution on the X-Y axis, MJF captures the finest details. Tolerances are ±0.5% (min. 0.3 mm), and the minimum wall thickness starts at 0.8 mm (geometry-dependent).
Technical Specifications for MJF
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max. build volume | 380 × 284 × 380 mm |
| Layer thickness | ~80 µm |
| Min. wall thickness | 0.8 mm (geometry-dependent) |
| Tolerances | ±0.5 %, min. 0.3 mm |
| Resolution (X–Y) | 1,200 dpi |
| Standard color | Gray |
| Lead time | From 7 working days |
For specific inquiries regarding materials, post-processing, or non-standard geometries, our MakerVerse team is happy to help. Simply upload your CAD file and receive an instant quote with binding values for your specific project.
Materials for MJF
For Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing, MakerVerse offers three proven materials to choose from: PA 12, PA 11, and TPU. Each material brings specific properties that make it ideal for different applications and industries.
PA 12
| Tensile strength | 48 MPa |
|---|---|
| Elongation at break | Up to 20% |
| Density | 1.01 g/cm³ |
| Color | Gray |
PA 11
| Tensile strength | 48 MPa |
|---|---|
| Elongation at break | Up to 40% |
| Density | 1.04 g/cm³ |
| Color | Gray / Black |
TPU
| Shore hardness | 88–90 A |
|---|---|
| Elongation at break | 150–280% |
| Density | 1.13 g/cm³ |
| Color | Black |
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 days
Didn't find the material you are looking for?
We are constantly expanding and you can request specific materials going beyond our current standardized offering. Select “Other Material” in the order process and provide us with your desired specifications in the comment section. You can also reach out to us with your specific material requests
Design Guidelines for MJF
Design Rules for MJF
Designing parts to be MJF-ready from the start saves costly iteration loops and delivers better results from the very first production run. The following table summarizes the most important design rules for Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing.
| Rule | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Min. wall thickness | ≥ 0.8 mm |
| Min. feature size | ≥ 0.5 mm |
| Gap between moving parts | ≥ 0.5 mm |
| Drainage holes for hollow spaces | ≥ 2 mm diameter |
| Living hinges | Min. 0.5 mm thickness |
| Text (embossed / engraved) | Min. character height 2 mm, stroke width ≥ 0.5 mm |
These values serve as guidelines for PA 12 and PA 11. Depending on geometry and material, individual parameters may vary. When in doubt, it is worth uploading the CAD file to MakerVerse and receiving an instant quote with an automatic manufacturability check.
Practical Tips for Better MJF Results
With these recommendations, you get the most out of your MJF parts:
Always include drainage holes in hollow spaces – otherwise, unfused powder remains trapped inside and cannot be removed after production. Learn more in the guide on powder removal and post-processing of MJF parts.
Avoid large flat surfaces – they tend to warp slightly. A better option: include ribbing or slight curvatures in the design.
Consider part orientation – elongation at break can vary directionally, even though strength and stiffness are largely isotropic.
Plan tolerances generously – factor in post-processing (e.g., sanding) for fits and functional surfaces. Our guide to 3D printing tolerances helps with proper planning.
MJF Compared to Alternative Processes
Which manufacturing process is right for your project? The following table compares Multi Jet Fusion with the most common alternatives – from SLS to FDM to traditional injection molding.
| Criterion | MJF | SLS | FDM | Injection Molding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unit cost (small batch) | Low | Medium | Very low | High (tooling) |
| Unit cost (large batch) | Medium | Medium–High | High | Very low |
| Surface quality | High | Medium | Low | Very high |
| Isotropy | ~98 % | Limited | Strongly anisotropic | Isotropic |
| Tooling costs | None | None | None | High |
| Material selection | Limited | Broad | Very broad | Very broad |
| Typical lead time | From 7 days | From 10 days | From 3 days | From 4 weeks |
Applications & Industries
Multi Jet Fusion covers a broad spectrum of industrial applications. From initial design validation to finished production parts, the process offers specific advantages for different industries. The following applications show where MJF particularly shines.
Prototyping & Functional Testing
MJF is ideal for functional prototypes that must withstand mechanical loads – such as housings, brackets, or snap-fit connections. Lead times starting at 7 days significantly accelerate design iterations and shorten development cycles.
End-Use Parts & Small-Series Production
From cable ducts to jigs to motor housings: MJF delivers production-ready parts without tooling investment. Particularly economical for batch sizes of 50–5,000 units. Hopper Mobility, for example, uses MJF prototypes via MakerVerse to specifically accelerate the development process.
Medical Technology & Orthotics
PA 11 and PA 12 are skin-contact compatible, making them ideal for custom-fitted orthoses and prosthetic sockets. Biocompatibility and geometric freedom make MJF the preferred process in medical technology.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about MJF
What is Multi Jet Fusion (MJF)?
Multi Jet Fusion is an industrial 3D printing process from HP that builds plastic parts layer by layer from polyamide powder. Instead of a laser, two liquid agents are used: the fusing agent defines the melting areas, and the detailing agent sharpens the contours. Infrared light then fuses the entire layer in a single pass. The result is parts with nearly isotropic properties, high dimensional accuracy, and surface quality that is significantly better than FDM.
Which materials are available for MJF?
MakerVerse offers three MJF materials to choose from: PA 12 is the all-rounder with high strength (48 MPa) and good chemical resistance against oils and greases. PA 11 offers higher elongation at break (up to 40%), is bio-based and biocompatible – ideal for mechanically stressed or skin-contact parts. TPU is a flexible elastomer with 150–280% elongation at break and Shore hardness 88–90 A, suitable for shock-absorbing parts such as grippers or seals. Detailed data sheets with all specifications are available for download on the respective material pages.
How do MJF and SLS differ?
Both processes work with powder bed fusion and use the same base materials (PA 12, PA 11), but differ in their process principle: SLS scans each layer point by point with a CO₂ laser, while MJF fuses the entire layer simultaneously with infrared light. This makes MJF up to 10× faster and enables higher throughput in batch production. MJF parts are also more isotropic (~98% vs. weaker Z-axis with SLS) and achieve finer feature resolution (0.51 mm vs. 0.762 mm). SLS, on the other hand, scores with a larger build volume and a broader material selection, such as aluminum-filled or flame-retardant powders. A detailed comparison can be found in our MJF vs. SLS comparison article.
Is MJF suitable for series production?
Yes, MJF is specifically designed for industrial series production. Through 3D nesting in the powder bed, several hundred parts can be manufactured simultaneously in a single build job without print time increasing proportionally. With no tooling costs and lead times starting at 7 days, the process is particularly economical for quantities between 50 and 5,000. In addition, many companies use MJF as a bridge to injection molding: initial series are manufactured via MJF, with the transition to injection molding occurring only once demand stabilizes and quantities exceed 1,000. MakerVerse supports both processes on a single platform.
What quality assurance & certifications does MakerVerse offer?
All MJF parts at MakerVerse are manufactured through a vetted production network with ISO 9001-certified processes. Every order undergoes standardized quality control. When uploading a CAD file, you automatically receive a manufacturability check (DFM check) that identifies potential production issues early. For more demanding projects, MakerVerse offers individual quality plans, optional inspection reports, and framework agreements for series production. All data is protected by IP safeguards and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs).
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.
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- Expert support from end-to-end
- Comprehensive manufacturing and quality plan
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