To get the desired functional parts, the use of the right 3D printing technology is crucial. Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) are the common printing methods that ensure high accuracy, strength and flexibility. But which one is best for your project?
In this guide, we’ll explore the difference between MJF and SLS, including their materials, surface finish, strength, cost, and time needed for processing. So, just keep reading!
1) An Introduction to MJF and SLS 3D Printing Technologies
No doubt Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) are two of the most popular 3D printing technologies today. Both have the capability of making strong detailed parts but differ in speed, the cost of production and the available materials. Their advantages and limitations determine which method will be suitable for your project.
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Pros and Cons of SLS
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Pros:
+ Strong and tough parts: SLS enables the production of high-strength parts that are functional in nature.
+ Complex designs possible: Allows for intricate geometries that other methods struggle with.
+ No support structures needed: Surrounding powder takes the place of support structures enabling features with undercuts while conserving material and making post-processing simple.
+ Versatile material options: Capable of working with nylon, TPU and composites, makes is suitable for functional prototypes and end-use parts.
+ Batch production efficiency: Batch production is more impressive as multiple parts can be produced at the same time, significantly improving the production time and the cost for bigger runs.
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Cons
Let’s discuss what are the disadvantages of SLS;
– Post-processing expensive: Often the powder needs to be blasted with a lot of pressure to create a smoother surface which requires extensive expensive post-processing.
– Printing time increases due to cooling: Production time is further extended due to printed parts needing to remain within the printer to cool down.
– Higher Cost Per Parts: SLS machines tend to be pricey, which limits their cost effectiveness for smaller batches.
Antonia Garza shared on a Quora post that SLS printing is really the costliest type of 3D printing. She further talked about the slow speed of SLS compared to other 3D printing methods. SLS printing can take many hours to a few days to complete the process.
– Difficult to manage powders: Excess powders require delicate material management and post-processing to dispose of. So, it is also a drawback of SLS printing.
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Pros and Cons of MJF
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Pros:
+ Mass production ready: MJF’s adoption of a bulk production approach enables mass production with ease.
+ Low-effort smooth results: MJF printing offers high-resolution parts. Apart from this, minimal post-processing means the workload greatly decreases.
+ Low costs: Less powder is used in MJF which means less waste is generated, and costs are lower.
+ Quality assurance: The strength of MJF parts is consistent throughout the body ensuring strength and reliability.
+ Easier Adaptation: The tech is a perfect fit for mass production while ensuring high quality.
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Cons
– Color usage restrictions: Prints are limited to a primary color palette of grey and black which reduces aesthetic choices.
– Investment in machinery: Debatably a small business cannot afford the pricey initial costs required to purchase machines.
– Limited variety of materials: MJF has a limited selection of materials, compared to SLS, which inhibits some specialized uses.
Regardless, SLS and MJF both deliver exemplary quality 3D printing suitable for industrial use. The choice is made depending on the financial resources, desired materials, production time, as well as the complexity of the parts to be fabricated.
2) Comparisons Between MJF and SLS
MJF and SLS are two widely adopted 3D printing techniques that fabricate parts using powdered materials due to their strength and functionality.
They differ, though, in terms of material usage, finishes, strength, print size, processing duration, and costs. SLS uses a laser to sinter each layer of powder, while MJF applies a binding material and infrared heat. These factors influence efficiency and application suitability.
The table below summarizes sls vs mjf:
| Factor | MJF | SLS |
| Materials | MJF uses nylon-based powders, for example, PA12 and PA11. Fewer material options. | Supports a wider range of materials, including flexible and composite powders. |
| Surface Finish | Produces smoother surfaces with fine details, reducing post-processing needs. | Has a rougher texture that often requires additional finishing steps. |
| Strength | It often provides strong, consistent mechanical properties due to uniform heat application. | Produces durable parts but may have slight variations in strength. |
| Print Volume | MJF is suitable for large batch production with consistent quality. | No doubt it can handle both small and large prints but requires longer cooling time. |
| Processing Time | Faster than SLS due to its efficient heat application. | Slower because the laser sinters each layer separately, requiring longer print times. |
| Cost | More cost-effective for large production runs due to material efficiency and speed. | Higher costs due to expensive materials and longer production times. |
MJF vs. SLS 3D printing Materials
- MJF
MJF focuses on nylon powders, like PA12 and PA11 that are great for functional pieces because of their impressive mechanical properties. Nonetheless, the selection of usable material is not as extensive as SLS.
- SLS
SLS has the ability to use more materials, such as flexible and composite powders, making it more useful for varying applications.
In cases where specific material selection is needed, SLS most definitely is the best option.
MJF vs. SLS Surface Finish
- MJF
MJF’s greatest strength is the surface finish which is really smooth. The fusion process is carried out in such a way that construction is free of granules because heat is applied uniformly. Like other processes, it does not require much in terms of post-processing procedures.
- SLS
Comparatively, SLS typically has a more rough finish because of the texture of the part that comes from the laser sintering process. SLS-printed parts often need further detailing like sanding, vapour smoothing, or coating to enhance the look and feel of the final product.
MJF vs. SLS Strength
- MJF
MJF and SLS are equally great at making robust and durable parts, but MJF is famous for its distinct and identifiable mechanical features. Uniform contour ensures that the strengths of the parts differ little from one another.
- SLS
While SLS also makes strong parts, the sequential laser sintering method can create harsh variations in strength between different parts of the print. For situations where strength consistency is crucial, MJF tends to be the most effective.
Print Volume
- MJF
MJF is highly effective when it comes to producing large batches, as it provides the ability to perform quick high-volume printouts without compromising quality. It makes for a great choice for mass production as several components can be printed at once without wasting time.
- SLS
SLS also manages both small and large builds, but it can take longer due to the increased cooling time needed in excess-demand situations. However, MJF does seem to be more efficient and output-friendly whenever a company is attempting to scale at a rapid pace.
Processing time
- MJF
Because MJF applies extensive heat all over a specific layer, it is far more effective and quicker than SLS. MJF is able to apply heat to multiple layers at the same time, which drastically cuts down the print time.
- SLS
On the other hand, SLS operates with a laser that sinters each layer which greatly delays the overall process. Furthermore, SLS requires the parts to be cooled inside the printer before removing them, adding to the total time.
Multi jet fusion vs SLS Cost
- MJF
Because of MJF’s speed combined with its efficiency with material, it is cost-effective for large-scale production.
- SLS
SLS tends to have a higher cost of machine and material which makes it more difficult financially. Although, it is very useful for small-scale or low-volume production. Though, if low-volume SLS flexibility is a concern then, SLS could be a good investment.
3) How SLS and MJF 3D Printing Processes Operate
Both SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) and MJF (Multi Jet Fusion) are types of 3D printing using powder as a raw material, although they have distinct approaches. Both processes melt the powder to create solid objects, but differences in their approach to printing alter their speed, material characteristics, and surface finishes. Each procedure is described in detail below.
- SLS 3D Printing Method
Step 1) Distribution of the Powder: A nylon powder is spread in a single, thin layer on the build platform by a printer.
Step 2) Laser Sintering: Based on a digital model, a laser is powerful enough to selectively sinter (fuse) specific parts of the powder across it.
Step 3) Layer-wise Construction: A layer of powder is then spread again after the build platform has been lowered slightly. The laser keeps sintering, uniting the layers.
Step 4) Cooling period: It is crucial to cool the entire build chamber gradually to prevent the warping of the model and achieving consistent mechanical strength in the printed parts.
Step 5) Post Processing: The printed parts can be taken out after cooling and any excess powder can be blasted off using air or brushes. Other measures like sanding or dyeing can be done to improve the visual appeal of the item.
SLS is well-known because there is no need for external support structures due to the fact that the surrounding powder holds the object in place while printing. Because of this, it is perfect for intricate shapes and detailed prototypes.
- MJF 3D Printing Method
Step 1) Distribution Of Powder: Just like in SLS, a thin layer of nylon powder is spread across the build platform.
Step 2) Fusing And Detailing Agents: MJF, unlike SLS, does not use a laser. Instead, spray heads that work using an inkjet system release a fusing agent on the parts that need to be combined. A detailing agent is sprayed around the edges to add sharp details.
Step 3) Heat Application Infrared: A lamp powered by infrared energy drapes over the construction area, fusing the chosen powder into a solid layer.
Step 4) Building Layer by Layer: This routine continues until the entire object has been printed, new layers of powder are added each time, and then selectively fused.
Step 5) Post-Processing And Cooling: Parts are required to cool down within the chamber in order to maintain its durability and precision. Excess powder is removed after cooling and post-processing like polishing or dyeing can be completed.
Compared to SLS, MJF is quicker, produces smoother surfaces, and has high uniformity in mechanical properties which makes it perfect for parts which are production-grade. The contrary is true for SLS because MJF does not do well under production parameters.
Okay! Now you will a clear about the difference between MJF and SLS. Well, let’s move ahead!
4) Alternatives to SLS and MJF 3D Printing
Despite SLS and MJF being some of the most advanced methods of 3D printing, other methods exist depending on the material, details, and how the part will be used. Some of these alternatives are listed below:
i) Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
FDM is among the most common 3D printing techniques. It involves cutting or burning plastic filaments into layers and using them to make a solid model. FDM is economical and excellent for prototype development. However, the model’s strength as well as the surface finish will be below SLS or MJF technology levels.
Manufacturers are also focusing on this type of 3D printing due to its low-cost production. Koonze also provides services for FDM printing. Koonze has highly technological machines which can provide you with high-precision FDM parts without any hassle.
ii) Stereolithography (SLA)
In this method, SLA technology prepares layers using a liquid coating and hardens the coating layer by layer using a laser. It features high accuracy and smooth surface finishes. It is widely utilized in the production of jewellery, dental models, and prototypes with intricate details. SLA parts are generally very brittle, and they tend to degrade in quality over time.
A happy news from Koonze: We also offer SLA services to our customers. The best thing is that Koonze SLA parts are always appreciable as they can carry and manage intricate details of parts with unmatchable precision.
iii) Digital Light Processing (DLP)
This works like SLA, but instead of the laser, it employs a digital light projector much like the ones we use at offices. This method allows for faster printing without compromising the quality of the print. Its popular applications are in dentistry, miniature sculptures, and engineering prototypes but it lacks variety in materials. It is, however, equally as restrictive as SLA.
iv) Binder Jetting
As with some other procedures, Binder Jetting begins by spraying a liquid binder into a powder bed, which merges layers together. It is capable of producing models with full colors and making metal components. Nonetheless, it is necessary to perform supplementary work to enhance the strength of the components, and their mechanical properties are inferior to those produced by SLS and MJF systems.
v) Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) / Selective Laser Melting (SLM)
These methods are used for producing metal parts where the laser melts the metal powder. This technique produces strong and heavy components, however, it is quite costly and requires accurate temperature management.
All of them are different in the sense that they provide unique advantages and shortfalls which make them fit for particular uses depending on costs, materials, and intricacy of the sections.
Apart from FDM and SLA, Koonze also offers all other types of 3D printing. You can check out Koonze services here.
5) How to Choose the Right 3D Printing Technology
Choosing the best option out of the available 3D printing technologies analysis is directly influenced by material, budget, the intended speed, and overall part quality. Here are some major considerations that would assist your decision-making.
- Think About the Material
Different methods operate with different materials. For durable plastic components, SLS or MJF would be perfect. SLA is better, with smooth and detailed prototypes, as is DLP. If you are looking for metal components, you should choose DMLS or SLM.
- Evaluate Strength and Endurance
If the part is supposed to endure force, the best methods are MJF, SLS, or metal 3D printing. SLA, DLP, and FDM printing methods will suffice for light-duty or decorative pieces.
- Analyze Surface Finish Requirements
For detailed and smooth prints, SLA and DLP are perfect. MJF and SLS do functional parts better, but their surfaces are somewhat rough. So, you should choose the printing type according to the requirements.
- Evaluate the Speed of Printing
In this case, speed is important, and MJF and DLP are faster than SLS and SLA. FDM has a slow speed for printing large detailed parts, while binder jetting can use high speed for bulk printing.
- Analyze the Expense
SLS and MJF have a higher expense, they provide stronger and better quality parts. But, DMLS and SLM metal printing are the most costly due to the material and processing requirements.
- Relevance Is Important
For prototypes, SLA, DLP, or FDM will suffice. MJF, SLS, or metal printing are better for functional parts.
Knowing your needs is crucial for picking the highest quality 3D printing technique for your project.
6) Order MJF and SLS Parts from Koonze Model
Koonze Model offers 3D printing services using Multi Jet Fusion and Selective Laser Sintering. The parts produced are accurate and very durable. We have significant experience with these technologies, so we are able to produce parts with high mechanical strength. With our high accuracy and surface finish, our parts are perfect for both prototyping and final product uses.
- What Benefits Can You Get When Working With Us?
We are aware that no two projects are alike and each of them has specific requirements, so we offer both MJF and SLS printing.
- MJF Printing: Our MJF process guarantees high-speed production and consistency when it comes to mechanical properties. It is best suitable for functional prototypes and production components that have delicate features.
- SLS Printing: Our SLS technology is great because of its design freedom, strength, and more advanced material options. Since it does not need support structures, it is ideal for complex geometry and lightweight designs.
Beyond MJF and SLS, we support SLA, FDM, and CNC Machining to meet wide-ranging services for rapid prototyping and production requirements.
- Why Choose Us?
Our clients particularly appreciate working with the Koonze Model because we guarantee top-notch service, excellent pricing, and quality delivery. Customers appreciate us because:
✔ Quick Turnaround Time: We guarantee fast production and orders will be delivered as fast as possible, possibly in 1 day. Koonze has a record of delivering 96% of parts on time.
✔ High Quality Is Always Achieved: The precision of our parts is of the utmost accuracy.
✔ Various Material Choices: Different materials are available for various uses.
✔ Focus on the requirements: We partner with our customers to address the particular needs of the projects.
✔ Standard tolerance: Koonze standard tolerance is ±0.1mm. But it also depends on the complexity of the part to be printed.
- How To Get Started
You can get started on the Koonze Model website, add your if you require a prototype or manufacturing at scale, we are able to assist using the best avdesigns, and our professionals will get back to you with a quote. Regardlessailable 3D printing technology.
7) Conclusion
In a nutshell, MJF and SLS are both powerful 3D printing technologies; however, each offers its own unique benefits and features. MJF offers the fastest and most efficient prints with smooth surface finishes, which makes it ideal for mass production. SLS offers a wider arsenal of materials as well as the ability to create strong, complex parts, but requires more time for processing and cooling.
Good to remind you that to avail best 3D printing services, Koonze is always here for you!
