Just like SLS technology, MJF lays down material in powder form with a thickness of 0.08 mm. But there the similarity ends.
In the next steps of the process, two different liquid agents are applied via the print head with a resolution of 1200 dpi. A “fusing agent” is applied where the material is to be fused and a “detailing agent” is applied on areas which are not intended for fusion.
Then energy in the form of heat is added, which makes the powder fuse where the fusing agent has been applied. The process is subsequently repeated with a new layer of powder. Once the process is complete, the parts are removed from the build surface, brushed down and blown clean of powder. Finally, the agreed post-processing is carried out, e.g. polishing, dying or lacquering.
Tolerances for MJF: min ± 0.2 mm and ± 0.25% of dimension. Finer tolerances by special arrangement. Minimum wall thickness in x/y/z is 0.5 mm. Level of detail down to 0.1 mm.
There is a risk of increased tolerances in the case of split and glued parts.