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 a shorter period of time, and 3D printing takes hours to create a product. Compared with 3D printing, what advantages does CNC machining have? The main points are as follows:
One, surface treatment advantages
CNC machine tools provide a better surface finish than 3D printing, because the material will not be deformed during processing. The rigid material and cutting action keep the product together, and there is less chance of error or deformation. The surface finish of 3D printing is poor. The material is bent, twisted or twisted because the material is layered to heat the plastic.
2. The prototype integrity is improved
The material is not heated by the CNC machine and modified. Compared with 3D printers, where the material remains stronger and has better structural integrity, the 3D printer must heat the material to build the desired product. 3D printers may also need to add foreign matter to the mixture to make prototypes, while CNC machines do not.
3. Prototyping becomes easier
CNC machine tools are more suitable for prototypes that can withstand structural testing because they engrave designs from materials. 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, because the change will be the design rather than the material. 3D printers do not make prototypes with structural strength, so they cannot be physically tested.
Four, price and volume do not represent price
The cost of 3D printing depends on the volume of materials required. The final product quantity does not determine the price of CNC machine tools. For larger orders, 3D printing is not cost-effective, and this is where CNC machine tools are flourishing.
Five, the level of tolerance rises
CNC machining accuracy is higher, so the parts have better tolerances than 3D printers. Due to tolerance levels, prototypes with shafts or connections to other components will be of higher quality and are more likely to fit other components.
6. Quality is in favor of CNC
The larger layer of the 3D printer is faster, but not as high quality as the smaller layer. If you need a prototype, you can choose to get it quickly but with a slightly lower quality, or wait longer to get the best quality prototype that the printer can provide. The CNC machine allows you to choose the resolution of the item. They can provide different qualities in a short period of time, making them ideal for rapid construction and instant test results.
Seven, reduce costs
If you can choose which manufacturing method to use for your product, CNC machining is usually cheaper than 3D printing.
Generally speaking, CNC machining has the above seven advantages compared with 3D printing in the field of precision machining.
