3D printing has made headlines now for some time, and CNC machining is right beside it as the main competitor. Both can create parts and prototypes out quickly and efficiently out of nothing, and until recently it was unlike anything the world had ever seen. Here are the differences between CNC Machining and 3D Printing to compare these up-and-coming giants of the industry.
Two Styles of Printing
3D printing and CNC machining are two huge competitors within the print manufacturing market, and there is a distinct trade-off between their strengths and weakness and what makes them unique. 3D printing is done by application of layers of filament—typically made from plastics, resins, and cement—to create things like prototypes and whole pieces. CNC, or computer numerical control, begins with one whole object, such as metal, plastic, and other elements.
Both 3D printing and CNC work with what are called additive and subtractive manufacturing. CNC machining starts with a solid block of the chosen material and cuts away at it until the desired construction is completed. This is known as subtractive manufacturing.
3D printing works in the opposite way. The printer starts with a blank slate and then builds upon itself one layer at a time until the desired product is completed. This is known as additive manufacturing.
Similarities and Differences
Some of the most common differences between CNC and 3D printing are that—while they are both capable of printing with the same materials—3D focuses more on using thermogenic plastics. CNC uses metals more often to mass-produce tools and parts. 3D printing makes a lot of prototypes and models, so it makes more sense that they stick to plastics.
CNC plastic machining services can mass produce products as it works via conveyer belts in assembly-line production, where 3D is limited to the size platform of the printer available. So, to print more using a 3D printer, it must be upgraded for large-scale 3D production. CNC is also more labor-intensive since an operator is needed. 3D is more automated because you only need to fill it and order it to complete your task.
Depending on the job, 3D printing is generally the most ethical as there is less waste. While it’s assumed that 3D is more cost-effective, large-scale production is usually much cheaper to produce through CNC machining, which gives a new perception to cost-effectiveness. CNC machining is a much faster process due to its industrial capabilities for assembly line work and consistency as its products are generally heat-tolerant. These are only some of the differences between CNC machining and 3D Printing, but you will have to determine for yourself what works best for your business.
