Protolabs Boosts HP Multi Jet Fusion Capacity by 50% to Meet Drone Demand
Written with artificial intelligence.
Protolabs has increased its capacity for the HP Jet Fusion 5600 series by 50% in response to growing demand from the aerospace and drone sectors. This expansion aims to provide lightweight, complex parts necessary for modern drone manufacturing.
Significant Capacity Increase
Minneapolis-based Protolabs has announced a 50% increase in its capacity for the HP Jet Fusion 5600 series, a move driven by rising demand from the aerospace and drone industries. This enhancement is geared towards meeting the needs of emerging sectors that utilize Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) for producing lightweight and intricate prototypes as well as production components.
Growth in MJF Revenue
Protolabs has experienced substantial growth, with MJF revenue from its U.S. factories increasing by over 40% year-over-year through Q3 2026. The company serves more than 100 drone manufacturers, with revenue from this segment soaring by more than 90% since 2023, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of nearly 40%. Suresh Krishna, President and CEO of Protolabs, emphasized that the expansion aims to support the scaling production needs of drone and aerospace customers.
Advanced Production Capabilities
The HP 5600 series is noted for its higher build density compared to previous models, allowing for more parts to be produced per cycle. This efficiency reduces wait times for customers, as parts made from Nylon PA-12—known for its strength-to-weight ratio—are particularly suited for drone applications, enhancing flight duration and payload capacity. Protolabs’ production facility in North Carolina is compliant with U.S. ITAR regulations and holds AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certifications, ensuring quality standards for defense-related projects.
Competitive Landscape
This latest expansion is Protolabs' second increase targeted at the drone market in 2026, following an earlier enhancement of CNC machining capabilities. As demand for drone components grows, other manufacturers are also stepping up their MJF capacities. Companies like AMufacture and Unusual Machines are positioning themselves to meet this demand with innovative production strategies, emphasizing the competitive nature of the industry.
Drone manufacturers are increasingly integrating MJF into their designs, with examples like UAV Works and Firestorm showcasing the advantages of 3D printing in optimizing drone production processes. Protolabs faces the challenge of keeping pace with its customers' expanding needs in this fast-evolving market.