The Advantages of CNC Machining Compared to 3D Printing

3D printing and CNC machining are relatively common production processes in the field of precision machining. There are similarities and differences between the two. For example, CNC machining is suitable for mass production. It can create many products in less time than 3D printing takes hours to create one product. Compared with 3D printing, what are the advantages of CNC machining? The main points are as follows:

1, surface treatment advantages CNC machine tools provide better surface finish than 3D printing.

Because the material does not deform during processing. The rigid material and cutting action keep the product together with less chance of error or deformation. 3D printing has a poor surface finish. The material bends or twists as the material is layered with heated plastic.

2, prototype integrity is improved. 

CNC machines do not heat the material and transform it. The material remains stronger and has better structural integrity than a 3D printer, which must heat the material to build the intended product. 3D printers may also need to add foreign matter to the mix to make prototypes, which CNC machines do not.

3, Prototyping just got easier. 

CNC machines are better for prototypes that can withstand structural testing because they carve designs out of the material. They can also build prototypes using the exact materials that will be used to make the final product. Structural tests and changes will be more accurate because they use the same materials.  This can speed up the production process as the changes will be in the design rather than the material. 3D printers do not make structurally strong prototypes, so they cannot be physically tested.

4, Quality favors CNC. 

Larger layers for 3D printers are faster, but not as high quality as smaller layers. If you need a prototype, you can choose to get it quickly but with slightly lower quality, or wait longer for the best quality prototype the printer can offer. CNC machines allow you to choose the resolution of the item. They can deliver different qualities in a short amount of time, making them ideal for quick builds and instant test results.

5, Reduce costs. 

CNC machining is generally less expensive than 3D printing if you can choose which manufacturing method to use for your product. In general, CNC machining has the above five advantages over 3D printing in the field of precision machining.