3D Printing: Different Technologies : PolyJet

✦ Principle ✦ PolyJet technology utilizes inkjet-like printheads to jet layers of liquid photopolymer onto a build platform. Each layer is then cured instantly with UV light, allowing for the creation of complex geometries and multi-material parts in a single build process.

✦ Accuracy ✦ PolyJet technology can achieve high levels of accuracy and resolution, it can produce parts with fine details, smooth surfaces, and intricate features. PolyJet's ability to print in multiple materials simultaneously can result in parts with varying textures, colors, and properties, adding to its versatility.

✦ Strength ✦ PolyJet parts generally exhibit good strength and durability, although specific properties can vary depending on the chosen material formulations. Parts may not be as strong as those produced with SLS using certain materials like nylon or metals. Compared to FDM, PolyJet parts may have comparable or better strength, depending on the material chosen and the intended application. SLA parts can sometimes have superior surface finish and detail resolution, but PolyJet's ability to print multi-material parts can outweigh this limitation.

✦ Cost ✦ PolyJet printers tend to be more expensive than FDM printers but are often comparable to SLA and SLS printers in terms of initial investment. Material costs for PolyJet can also be higher than those for FDM but may vary depending on the specific materials used.

          ✦ Materials ✦



PolyJet 3D printing uses a variety of photopolymer resins to produce parts with different properties. These materials can simulate a wide range of characteristics, from rigid and durable to flexible and rubber-like.

• Rigid:
  DraftWhite ✦ RGD720 
  Biocompatible ✦ Durus
  Digital ABS Plus ✦ Vero
   
• Flexible:
  Vero Vivid Colors ✦ DraftWhite ✦ 
  TissueMatrix ✦ Biocompatible ✦ 
  VeroVivid Color Family
   
• Biocompatible:
  MED610™ Bio-compatible material ✦
  TrueDent™ Resin ✦
  Biocompatible VeroGlaze™ MED620 ✦

PolyJet 3D printing technology was developed by Objet Geometries company, founded in 1998. In 2000, Objet introduced the first PolyJet printer, which utilized a process similar to inkjet printing but with photopolymer materials, allowing for the creation of highly detailed and smooth parts. The technology gained traction for its ability to print multi-material and multi-color objects in a single build. In 2012, Objet Geometries merged with Stratasys to become one of the largest 3D printing companies in the world.

PolyJet 3D printing is a technology that creates high-resolution, multi-material, and multi-color parts by jetting photopolymer droplets onto a build platform and curing them with UV light. It is known for its precision and smooth surface finishes, making it ideal for producing detailed prototypes, complex geometries, and realistic models. PolyJet can simultaneously print different materials, enabling the creation of parts with varying mechanical properties and colors in a single print. This versatility makes it popular in industries such as medical, dental, consumer products, and design.

The PolyJet 3D printing process involves several key steps:

✦ Material Loading:

• Resin Cartridge Loading: Photopolymer resin cartridges are loaded into the printer. PolyJet
  printers can hold multiple cartridges for different materials and colors.

✦ Printing:

• The printer's print head jets tiny droplets of photopolymer resin onto the build platform,
  layer by layer.
• UV lamps immediately cure the resin droplets, solidifying the material and forming each layer.
• Support structures are printed simultaneously with the model using a gel-like support material,
  which is also cured by UV light.

✦ Layer Building:

• The process repeats, with the print head depositing and curing successive layers of material
  until the entire object is formed.

✦ Post-Processing:

• The printed object is removed from the build platform, and the support material is washed
  away with water or dissolved using a specialized solution.
• Additional post-processing steps, such as sanding, painting, or polishing, can be applied
  to enhance the appearance and functionality of the printed part.

Enhancing Medical Simulation
and Surgical Planning with PolyJet 3D Printing
 

PolyJet 3D printed models are precious for medical simulation and surgical planning due to their
precision and ability to replicate complex anatomical structures. These models enable:

• Detailed Visualization: PolyJet technology produces high-resolution models with intricate details, allowing medical professionals to closely study and understand patient-specific anatomy.
• Multi-Material Printing: The capability to print with multiple materials simultaneously means models can mimic the different textures and densities of human tissues, providing a more realistic simulation experience.
• Color Accuracy: The ability to print in full color helps distinguish between various anatomical features, enhancing the clarity of the models.
• Pre-Surgical Planning: Surgeons can use these models to plan and rehearse complex procedures, improving accuracy and outcomes by allowing them to practice on realistic replicas of patient anatomy.
• Patient Communication: Detailed models help explain procedures to patients, improving their understanding and comfort with the upcoming surgery.

PolyJet 3D printing thus significantly enhances the precision, effectiveness, and safety of medical procedures through improved visualization, planning, and communication.

✦
✦ Education ✦
Producing teaching aids and demonstration models for educational purposes. Also, developing prototypes for research and development projects.

✦ Architecture ✦
Building precise architectural models for visualization and client presentations. Also, crafting custom fixtures and fittings for interior design projects.

✦ Engineering ✦ 
Rapid Prototyping, complex Geometries, molds, and customized Jigs and fixtures

                                                 ✦ 3D Fashion Technology ✦



PolyJet 3D printing revolutionizes the fashion industry by enabling the creation of intricate, customized, and high-quality pieces. It allows designers to produce detailed jewelry, personalized footwear, unique fashion accessories, and experimental textiles with complex geometries and multi-material capabilities. This technology facilitates rapid prototyping for design validation and quick iteration, making it ideal for runway and haute couture statement pieces. By offering unparalleled precision and flexibility, PolyJet 3D printing empowers fashion designers to push creative boundaries and bring innovative concepts to life.