London-based 3DPRINTUK, a specialist service provider of polymer powder bed fusion (PBF) 3-D printing processes for manufacturing applications, has just installed the latest MultiJet Fusion (MJF) system supplied by Leicestershire-based HP distributor Matsuura. The purchase is the culmination of a £1 million strategic plan by 3DPRINTUK to expand its 3-D printing services.

The 5210 system is the most-advanced 3-D printing production system from HP and the first of its kind to be installed within a UK service bureau.

3DPRINTUK’s CEO Nick Allen said: “We have been watching MJF mature since 2015 and have been waiting for the right moment to add it to our portfolio. We believe the time is right to invest in MJF as it now meets the demands of our customers and their applications with the 5200 series.

“It is important to distinguish the investment in the 5210 system over previous systems in the original 4200 series of machines as it represents a considerable leap forward with the MJF process.

“This is based on our extensive in-house testing of parts from both series and there are big improvements with the 5210 in key areas such as part quality, repeatability, Z-axis scaling, heating control and accuracy.”

During the last decade, 3DPRINTUK has established itself as a leading provider of 3-D printed polymer parts using PBF processes, specifically SLS. This has generated a wealth of experience and expertise that transfers extremely well to the MJF process and a move taken to meet client demands.

For batch production and highly functional parts using 3-D printing both the SLS and MJF processes compare well with each other, with each tipping the other in a few key areas.

By running both SLS and MJF systems 3DPRINTUK says it is now in a position to deliver the very best polymer parts specific to clients’ individual needs.

Customers can either specify their chosen production systems or, using the expertise of 3DPRINTUK, make use of the company’s quoting system that will funnel priority requirements to ensure the best possible outcome in terms of the quality and functionality of the parts together with value for money and delivery times.

The initial installation of the new MJF 5210 machine was quickly followed by some extensive testing by the 3DPRINTUK team to assess the output in the real world against HP’s specifications.

In adddition to the MJF system, the company has invested in two large-scale SLS P396 systems to the production portfolio; new DyeMansion equipment to provide professional post-processing and finishing services, including shot peening and multiple new colour options; together with the new SLS Flexible material option.

3DPRINTUK will continue to address the needs of its customers in every way possible. The addition of the 5210 Jet Fusion system opens up even more avenues for batch production applications with 3-D printing, backed up by unmatched levels of experience and expertise with PBF processes and professional post-processing options.