What is PolyJet technology and how does it work?

PolyJet technology was created in the late 1990s by Objet (now part of Stratasys). For years, it has been one of the most advanced manufacturing methods in the field of industrial 3D printing. Its unique features make it a technology that stands out from other photopolymer 3D printing methods such as SLA, DLP or UV LCD.

PolyJet works by selectively spraying tiny photopolymer droplets onto the build plate and then immediately curing them using UV light. This method enables very high resolution and detail quality, with layers that can reach a height of just 16 microns, which is one of the lowest levels available in 3D printing. By using multiple nozzles, PolyJet technology enables the simultaneous use of different materials and colors in one printing process, which allows the creation of complex and multi-colored objects with different physical properties.

One of the main differences between PolyJet and other 3D printing technologies, such as SLA, DLP or UV LCD, is the method of material application. These technologies are based on immersion methods, where the entire vat of resin is cured in specific places. In contrast, PolyJet sprays the resin in spots, allowing for greater precision and the ability to print in multiple materials. At the same time, PolyJet technology also requires thorough cleaning after the 3D printing process. Containers with excess resin must be cleaned regularly and the support structures are usually removed by rinsing with water or dissolving in a solution (e.g. alcohol solution). This process, although simple, can be time-consuming.

The operating costs of PolyJet printers are relatively high, especially due to the price of resin cartridges, which can reach up to several thousand zlotys. Still, the quality and versatility of the prints justify these costs, especially in applications requiring high accuracy and material diversity.

Technology Applied – the largest Polish company providing 3D printing services, despite having, among others, SLA 3D printers, offers the possibility of ordering 3D prints also using the PolyJet method. This technology also offers much higher precision and resolution compared to SLS (selective laser sintering) and MJF (Multi Jet Fusion), and also enables the creation of multi-material and multi-color prints, which is not offered by other methods. High quality finishes, the ability to create complex geometries and flexibility in material selection make PolyJet a valuable tool for companies like Technology Applied that strive to innovate and deliver high-quality, personalized products to their customers.

Photo: www.ta.parts