Fusion 3D Printing Material

How Do I Choose the Right HP Jet Fusion 3D Printing Material

Introduction

The evolution of digital manufacturing has been significantly influenced by HP Jet Fusion 3D Printing Technology. This innovative process has revolutionized additive manufacturing by providing efficient, cost-effective, and scalable solutions for producing high-performance parts. Unlike conventional 3D printing methods, HP’s Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) process offers voxel-level control, enhancing mechanical properties, fine detail resolution, and batch consistency.

A key advantage of HP Jet Fusion technology is its diverse material portfolio, which includes polyamide (Nylon), polypropylene, and polyurethane-based elastomers. Each material offers distinct properties, making them suitable for different applications, from industrial prototypes to fully functional end-use parts.

This guide explores the properties, benefits, and applications of these materials, helping manufacturers select the optimal polymer for their specific production needs.

Polyamide (Nylon) Family: Strength, Versatility, and Dimensional Stability

1. HP 3D High Reusability PA 12: A High-Performance Engineering Polymer

Nylon 12 (PA 12) is one of the most commonly used thermoplastics in industrial 3D printing. Known for its high strength, fine detail resolution, and chemical resistance, it is a preferred material for functional prototypes and end-use parts.

One of the major advantages of PA 12 is its low moisture absorption rate (0.6%), ensuring long-term dimensional stability, even in humid environments. Additionally, it has exceptional chemical resistance to oils, greases, hydrocarbons, and weak acids, making it ideal for automotive, aerospace, and medical applications.

Mechanical Properties (ASTM Standards):

  • Tensile Strength: 48 MPa
  • Elongation at Break: 20%
  • Flexural Modulus: 1,650 MPa
  • Impact Strength (Notched Izod): 4.5 kJ/m²
  • Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) @ 0.45 MPa: 175°C

These properties make PA 12 an excellent choice for housings, enclosures, and mechanical assemblies requiring watertight characteristics.

2. HP 3D High Reusability PA 12 Glass Beads: Enhanced Stiffness and Thermal Stability

For applications demanding higher stiffness and improved dimensional repeatability, HP offers PA 12 Glass Beads (PA 12 GB), a 40% glass bead-filled composite. This formulation enhances rigidity and heat resistance, making it ideal for structural components, jigs, fixtures, and tooling.

Compared to unfilled PA 12, PA 12 GB has a higher flexural modulus (2,900 MPa), allowing it to support higher loads with minimal warping.

Key Mechanical Properties:

  • Tensile Strength: 48 MPa
  • Elongation at Break: 10%
  • Flexural Modulus: 2,900 MPa
  • Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) @ 0.45 MPa: 184°C

Industries such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics benefit from PA 12 GB’s high precision and mechanical integrity.

3. HP 3D High Reusability PA 11: A High-Ductility, Renewable Alternative

Unlike PA 12, PA 11 is derived from renewable castor oil, making it an eco-friendly alternative. It offers superior ductility and impact resistance, making it ideal for applications requiring high strain tolerance.

With an elongation-at-break of 40% (compared to PA 12’s 20%), PA 11 is well-suited for snap-fits, prosthetics, living hinges, and sports equipment.

Mechanical Properties:

  • Tensile Strength: 45 MPa
  • Elongation at Break: 40%
  • Flexural Modulus: 1,400 MPa
  • Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) @ 0.45 MPa: 180°C

Because of its biocompatibility and high impact resistance, PA 11 is widely used in medical devices, wearable tech, and lightweight prosthetics.

Polypropylene (PP): Chemical Resistance and Cost Efficiency

Polypropylene (PP) is a widely used thermoplastic in fluid handling, automotive, and medical industries due to its chemical resistance, low density, and cost efficiency.

Unlike polyamides, PP absorbs almost no moisture (0.03%), making it ideal for piping, fluid reservoirs, and medical trays. HP’s 3D High Reusability PP offers up to 90% powder reusability, reducing material waste and production costs.

Mechanical Properties:

  • Tensile Strength: 30 MPa
  • Elongation at Break: 15%
  • Flexural Modulus: 1,200 MPa
  • Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) @ 0.45 MPa: 160°C

Additionally, PP is fully weldable, allowing seamless integration of 3D-printed parts with traditionally injection-molded polypropylene components.

Polyurethane-Based Elastomers: Flexibility and Impact Absorption

For applications requiring high elasticity and impact absorption, HP Jet Fusion supports thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) materials.

1. ESTANE® 3D TPU M95A: High-Rebound and Abrasion Resistance

Developed by Lubrizol, ESTANE® 3D TPU M95A is an elastomer that offers high elasticity, wear resistance, and excellent energy return. It is commonly used in:

  • Soft-touch components
  • Protective padding
  • Automotive seals

Key Properties:

  • Tensile Strength: 20 MPa
  • Elongation at Break: 300%
  • Shore Hardness: 95A

Its abrasion resistance makes it highly durable for industrial and consumer applications.

2. BASF Ultrasint® TPU01: High-Durability and UV Resistance

BASF’s Ultrasint® TPU01 is designed for shock-absorbing applications and provides superior UV and hydrolysis resistance, making it ideal for:

  • Protective sports gear
  • Vibration dampeners
  • Wear-resistant components

Its combination of durability and flexibility makes it suitable for outdoor applications.

Choosing the Right HP Jet Fusion 3D Printing Material

Selecting the right 3D printing material depends on the required mechanical properties, application, and environmental factors.

  • For high strength, fine detail, and chemical resistance, PA 12 is ideal.
  • For stiffer parts with enhanced heat resistance, PA 12 GB is preferred.
  • For high-impact and flexible applications, PA 11 is the best option.
  • For cost efficiency and chemical resistance, PP offers a lightweight, weldable solution.
  • For elasticity, wear resistance, and impact absorption, TPU-based materials are the best choice.

Partner with RapidMade for Precision 3D Printing

At RapidMade, we specialize in HP Jet Fusion 3D printing, offering high-performance prototypes and end-use parts across industries. Our expert team ensures optimized designs, material selection, and scalable production.

Ready to bring your designs to life?
Contact RapidMade today to discover cutting-edge 3D printing solutions tailored to your needs.

For more information, visit RapidMade.com.

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