Proto Labs Expands 3D Printing Service with HP’s Multi Jet Fusion Technology

MAPLE PLAIN, Minn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Proto
Labs (NYSE: PRLB), a global leader in technology-enabled, rapid
manufacturing, has announced the addition of Multi Jet Fusion to its
suite of 3D printing technologies. The production-grade 3D printing
technology, developed by HP, builds fully functional plastic prototypes
and production parts with accelerated speed, detailed precision, and
consistent mechanical properties.

Due to Proto Labs’ industrial 3D printing expertise, HP selected the
company as a foundational partner for its launch of Multi Jet Fusion
technology. The collaboration is part of HP’s efforts to establish a
global network of 3D printing service providers.

HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology uses an inkjet array to apply fusing
and detailing agents across a bed of nylon powder, which are then fused
by heating elements into a solid layer. The technology’s unique approach
to binding powder results in more isotropic material properties, faster
build speeds, and, ultimately, lower costs compared to other
powder-based 3D printing processes.

Proto Labs has worked with select customers to optimize the Multi Jet
Fusion process for its 3D printing offering. “Before introducing any
manufacturing process at Proto Labs, we execute thorough testing to
develop a repeatable process and ensure we can meet our quality
standards,” said Greg Thompson, global product manager of 3D printing at
Proto Labs. “We are extremely confident with the feature resolution and
quality surface finishes we have seen with HP’s Multi Jet Fusion and are
excited to offer our customers another tool to accelerate product
development and reduce manufacturing costs.”

Proto Labs now offers five different industrial 3D printing processes,
producing plastic, metal, and elastomeric components in as fast as one
day.

About Proto Labs
Proto Labs is the world’s fastest digital
manufacturing source for custom prototypes and low-volume production
parts. The technology-enabled company uses rapid 3D printing, CNC
machining, and injection molding processes to produce parts within days.
The result is an unprecedented speed-to-market value for designers and
engineers and an on-demand resource throughout a product’s life cycle.
Visit protolabs.com
for more information.

Contacts

Proto Labs
Sarah Ekenberg, 763-479-7560
Public Relations
Manager, Proto Labs
[email protected]
or
Media
Contact
Padilla for Proto Labs
Tim Nelson, 612-455-1789
[email protected]