Comparative Mechanical Performance of <scp>3D</scp> Printed Polyamide‐12 Using Selective Laser Sintering and Multi Jet Fusion for Automotive Application

ABSTRACT Selective laser sintering (SLS) and multi jet fusion (MJF) have emerged as advanced additive manufacturing (AM) techniques that offer improved surface finish and mechanical properties. This paper aims to experimentally evaluate and compare the mechanical, tribological, and microstructural performance of Polyamide‐12 (PA12) specimens fabricated using SLS and MJF methods. The performance characteristics included tensile strength, flexural strength, impact resistance, friction, wear rate, and surface roughness, which were critical for automotive interior components. While SLS employed a 30 W laser, 0.1 mm layer thickness, and chamber temperature of 171°C, MJF used a 3 kW fusing unit, 0.1 mm layer thickness, and chamber temperature of 170°C. Results indicated that SLS‐printed parts outperformed MJF in tensile, flexural, and impact behaviors. However, MJF exhibited better surface finish and more stable wear characteristics. The microstructural evaluation using a scanning electron microscope equipped with an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) confirmed the fusion of denser particles in SLS and smoother layer formation in MJF.