3D printing processes
What is PolyJet 3D printing, and what makes it different?
PolyJet 3D printing jets droplets of photopolymer and cures each layer with UV light. Because several materials can be jetted in one build, a single part can combine rigid and flexible regions, with layers of 16 to 30 microns. Use it for presentation models, fit models and soft-touch prototypes. Build volume, tolerance and lead time are confirmed at quote.
Reviewed by HenleyPrint3D engineers2 min readUpdated
Key takeaways
- Layers of 16 to 30 microns, with very fine surface detail.
- Rigid and flexible regions can share one part.
- Build volume, tolerance and lead time are confirmed per job at quote.
- Best for display, fit and light-duty parts, indoors.
Suits
Presentation models, overmoulded-style parts and prototypes with rigid and soft regions.
Worth knowing
Not for load-bearing or outdoor parts. Use FDM or SLS for those.
PolyJet materials
| Material | Use it for | Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Rigid photopolymer | Stiff, detailed models and housings | Light-duty parts |
| Flexible photopolymer | Soft grips and seals on rigid bodies | Short-term snap fits |
| Transparent photopolymer | Lenses, covers, light pipes | Can degrade outdoors |
When to choose PolyJet
| Choose PolyJet when | Choose something else when |
|---|---|
| You need rigid and soft regions in one part | The part must bear load (FDM or SLS) |
| Fine detail is needed in several materials | The part is large (FDM) |
| You are making presentation or fit models | A single resin will do (SLA is simpler) |
PolyJet key figures
| Property | PolyJet on our service |
|---|---|
| Layer height | 16 to 30 microns |
| Build volume | Quoted per part |
| Tolerance | Quoted per part |
| Lead time | Quoted per part |
How to specify a PolyJet part
Send a STEP file with the drawing described above, and say whether the part is for display, fit or light handling. We confirm the material, build volume, tolerance and lead time before you commit. See the PolyJet 3D printing service page for ordering, or compare processes in FDM vs SLA vs SLS vs PolyJet.
Frequently asked questions
What is PolyJet used for?
Realistic prototypes, presentation models, multi-material and soft-touch parts, and anatomical models. It is chosen when appearance, fine detail and mixed materials matter more than mechanical toughness.
Can PolyJet print in multiple colours and materials at once?
Yes. The print head can jet several photopolymers in one build, producing multi-colour parts and combinations of rigid and flexible regions, including intermediate blends.
How accurate is PolyJet?
PolyJet is typically accurate to roughly ±0.1 to ±0.2 mm on small parts, with the error growing with size. Exact capability depends on the material and geometry and is confirmed when we quote.
Are PolyJet parts strong?
They are adequate for models and light-duty prototypes but weaker and less heat resistant than nylon or ABS. For functional or load-bearing parts, SLS or FDM is the better choice.
What is the difference between PolyJet and SLA?
Both cure photopolymer, but SLA draws layers in a vat of resin, while PolyJet jets droplets and cures them in place. PolyJet allows multiple materials in one part; SLA generally offers a wider range of single resins at lower cost.
Get started
Talk to an engineer about your part.
Send us your CAD or describe the problem. We recommend the process, material and finish, and quote with the lead time up front.
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