3D printing service provider 3DPRINTUK, recently acquired by UK-based Solid Solutions in 2023, has increased its array of in-house Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) printers from HP. With a surge in requests for large-scale batch production with fast turnaround times, the addition of more MJF 3D printers enables 3DPRINTUK to better satisfy customer requirements. Moreover, a specialized maintenance team has been established to focus on their HP 5210 Pro 3D printers.
“We’re thrilled to enhance our MJF capabilities with two new machines. This expansion helps us cater to client needs with increased efficiency, accuracy, and flexibility. With these advanced machines, we commit to upholding our turnaround promises, improving precision, and boosting our production capacity while maintaining the high quality our customers expect,” stated Nick Allen, Managing Director of 3DPRINTUK. “This investment reiterates our dedication to adopting forefront technology to address our clients’ growing demands and propel additive manufacturing into the future.”
3DPRINTUK excels in on-demand production and prototyping utilizing powder bed fusion (PBF) technology. Over the past decade, the company has perfected polymer powder 3D printing, delivering parts swiftly with minimal layer visibility and without the need for supports. After observing the evolution of HP’s technology, in 2020, 3DPRINTUK decided to integrate the MJF platform alongside their existing SLS capabilities, becoming the first service bureau in the UK to offer specialized MJF parts. Further expansion in early 2023 saw the addition of a third MJF printer, raising their total to five. These systems now complement their SLS printers from EOS and DyeMansion’s post-processing equipment, showcasing the versatility of the service bureau in offering a range of processes and technologies for top-notch part production.
Nonetheless, challenges persist in the realm of mechanical equipment operation. Machine breakdowns are an unfortunate reality, leading to downtime and resulting hitches such as production delays, adversely impacting project schedules. This not only inconveniences clients needing a steady flow of quality parts but can also inflict financial losses and extend lead times, thereby affecting market readiness and schedules. Frequent breakdowns can mar the consistency and quality of 3D prints, occasionally resulting in defects.
To ensure its customers avoid operational delays, 3DPRINTUK now employs three dedicated maintenance engineers specifically for its MJF systems. According to Allen, these engineers possess “unparalleled experience and knowledge of the systems.”
“In addition to our existing maintenance team for SLS machines, we established this MJF-specific group. Having in-house engineers enables us to swiftly resolve any technical issues, minimizing our dependence on external support and ensuring quicker service times,” Allen explained. “This proactive strategy not only prevents downtime but also improves the lifespan and functionality of the machines, guaranteeing that our clients receive dependable and timely services with exceptional product quality.”
HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology is ideal for quickly producing functional prototypes and end-use parts that require smooth surfaces, precise details, and uniform mechanical properties. It has been applied in numerous fields, including pickleball equipment and footwear, as well as components for drones, the automotive sector, and even filtration screens for wastewater treatment. More information is available in the HP Zone on our website.
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