Aspect | PolyJet | Multi-Material Jetting (MMJ) |
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Technology | Uses a jetting process to deposit liquid photopolymer in ultra-thin layers, which is then cured with UV light. | Similar to PolyJet, it jets multiple materials from separate nozzles. |
Materials | Can jet different photopolymer resins in the same build, including flexible, rigid, transparent, and opaque materials. | Can use a wide array of materials including ceramics, metals, and polymers simultaneously. |
Color Capabilities | High-resolution color printing, capable of producing vivid, multi-color objects with smooth gradients. | Depending on the system, can also offer color printing, though generally less vibrant than PolyJet. |
Accuracy | Extremely high detail and precision, ideal for complex geometries and thin walls. | Typically offers high precision, slightly less than PolyJet due to the complexity of managing multiple materials. |
Surface Finish | Produces parts with a smooth surface finish, often requiring little to no post-processing. | Generally produces good surface finishes but may require post-processing depending on the material mix. |
Complexity | Excellent for intricate designs, including overhangs, undercuts, and complex geometries without additional support. | Can create highly complex structures with varying material properties, including internal geometries and heterogeneous parts. |
Speed | Fast printing process, though speed can be affected by the complexity and variety of materials used. | Printing speed varies; generally slower than single-material processes due to the complexity of multiple jets. |
Applications | Ideal for prototypes, models, and parts requiring detailed textures, color, or material properties. | Suited for advanced applications requiring functional parts with diverse material properties, like wearable devices or multi-functional tools. |
Cost | Relatively high operational and material costs due to proprietary resins and required maintenance. | Also tends to be expensive due to the use of diverse and sometimes costly materials. |