HP
HP Jet Fusion shipped
The HP 3D team celebrates the first shipment of the HP Jet Fusion 4200 Printer.
Global technology group, HP has begun shipping its Jet Fusion 3D 4200 Printer to its co-development partners in Europe and North America.
The partners were those who made a public commitment to the Multi Jet Fusion technology when the product was first launched in May. Jabil, Materialise and Shapeways are among the customers that will be receiving these initial installations.
Built for short-run manufacturing, the Jet Fusion is an integrated end-to-end solution designed to address many of problems existing 3D printing technologies have. HP believe their new printing system is a complete solution, encompassing easy-to-use software that removes existing 3D file format challenges. It also streamlines the print preparation and job monitoring processes, through accurate build time estimations, automated packing and embedded quality checks.
The unique Open Platform approach aims to improve materials diversity and performance, ultimately reducing cost. Currently, the platform uses HP 3D High Reusability PA12, a strong, multi-purpose thermoplastic which optimises cost and part quality.
While even more materials is set to follow in the future, last month Evonik announced a plastic powder, the first certified material for HP’s Open Platform Programme for 3D materials. HP’s other confirmed materials partners include BASF, Arkema and Lehamnn and Voss.
HP is also identifying and working with reseller partners as they complete the HP 3D Print Specialisation Application and requirements to become an HP authorised partner. These authorised partners will be responsible for selling and servicing the entire portfolio of HP’s 3D printing solutions and accessories.
“Six months ago we unveiled the HP Jet Fusion 3D Printing Solution, as well as a list of visionary companies looking to join HP on the journey toward the next industrial revolution,” said Ramon Pastor, Vice President and General Manager, HP 3D Multi Jet Fusion business. “As installations of the products begin to ramp up, we expect our co-development partners to unveil game changing parts and innovative materials with unprecedented quality and cost savings.”
The HP Multi Jet Fusion could allow future platforms to include multi-colour printing, a greater range of useable materials, and the ability to transform part properties at voxel level, meaning more flexibility or translucency for a 3D-printed object. HP say the expanded options will allow for limitless combinations of applications, colours and materials. The ability to print material with embedded sensors and other intelligence will provide support to the Internet of Things, and printing parts with embedded traces will help reinvent supply chains.