Multiple Materials. One Print. Zero Assembly.
PolyJet technology jets microscopic droplets of liquid photopolymer onto a build tray and cures each layer with UV light — similar in concept to SLA, but with a critical difference: PolyJet can deposit multiple materials simultaneously in a single build.
That means a single part can combine rigid and flexible zones, different colors, clear and opaque regions, or varying durometers — all printed at once with no assembly required.
How PolyJet Works
- Multiple inkjet print heads jet different photopolymer resins onto the build tray simultaneously
- UV light instantly cures each layer
- The platform drops by 16–32 microns (thinnest layers in commercial 3D printing)
- Support material is jetted in parallel, then washed away after the build
The result is an exceptionally smooth surface finish with layer lines that are essentially invisible — and material combinations that no other process can achieve in a single operation.
When to Choose PolyJet
PolyJet is the right choice when:
- Multi-material prototypes — rigid housing with rubber-like gaskets, buttons, or grips printed as one piece. Simulates over-molded assemblies before committing to multi-shot tooling.
- Realistic visual prototypes — full-color, photo-realistic textures, smooth surfaces. Consumer product presentations, marketing samples, crowdfunding visuals.
- Simulated rubber/elastomer — PolyJet can produce parts ranging from Shore 27A (very soft) to Shore 95A (firm rubber) and rigid — in a single part with gradient transitions.
- Medical and anatomical models — multi-color, multi-durometer models for surgical planning. Hard bone, soft tissue, and vasculature in one print.
- Clear/transparent parts — optical clarity approaching injection-molded acrylic (with polishing).
- Very fine details — 16-micron layers deliver the highest resolution of any commercial 3D printing process.
Common applications:
- Consumer electronics prototypes with rubber buttons, seals, and rigid housing
- Footwear prototypes with variable-hardness soles
- Medical simulation models (tumors, organs, bone) for surgical planning
- Automotive interior trim prototypes with soft-touch surfaces
- Full-color architectural models
- Snap-fit and living hinge prototypes in multi-material
PolyJet Materials
| Material Category | Properties | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Rigid Opaque (Vero) | Stiff, smooth, available in multiple colors | Visual prototypes, form/fit testing |
| Clear (VeroClear) | Optically transparent, polishable | Light pipes, lenses, flow visualization |
| Rubber-Like (Agilus30) | Shore 30A–95A, tear resistant, flexible | Gaskets, grips, seals, wearables |
| Digital ABS | Simulates ABS — higher heat and impact resistance | Functional prototypes, snap-fit testing |
| Bio-Compatible (MED610) | USP Class VI certified | Medical devices, dental, surgical guides |
| High Temperature (RGD525) | HDT of 75–80°C | Under-hood, hot-air ducting prototypes |
The multi-material advantage: These aren’t just separate materials — they can be blended digitally. You can specify a gradient from rigid to flexible within a single part, or blend colors for photorealistic textures.
PolyJet Limitations (Be Honest)
- Not for functional load-bearing parts — PolyJet resins are photopolymers, not engineering thermoplastics. They’re brittle compared to FDM ABS or SLS nylon.
- UV degradation — parts yellow and become brittle with prolonged UV/sunlight exposure. Not suitable for outdoor use.
- Cost — PolyJet is among the most expensive 3D printing processes per part. Justified for visual/multi-material prototypes, not for production.
- Support removal can be labor-intensive — water-soluble supports need soaking and manual cleanup, especially in complex internal geometries.
- Not dimensionally stable long-term — parts can warp or shift over months. Great for prototyping, not for fixtures or long-term tools.
How PartSnap Delivers PolyJet
PolyJet is available through our production partners. We manage:
- Material selection — helping you choose the right combination of rigid, flexible, and clear materials for your specific prototype
- Design optimization — ensuring your multi-material boundaries, wall thicknesses, and support access are set up for success
- Honest process guidance — if SLA or FDM achieves the same goal at lower cost, we’ll tell you
info@partsnap.com · 214.449.1455