3D printing and CNC milling each provide distinct advantages to those looking to rapidly prototype and iterate their designs. Rapid prototyping services like WayKen offer both, but it’s important to know the differences between what the two technologies have to offer.  

Most people that have a basic understanding of manufacturing technologies know that 3D printing and CNC machining are vastly different methods. Also known as additive manufacturing, 3D printing is capable of iterating a CAD design by building it up layer-by-layer. On the other hand, computer numerical control (CNC) machining is a subtractive manufacturing technology, meaning that it produces a 3D model by carving away at a solid block of material.

Those primary differences are simple enough to comprehend, but what most people don’t have a clear idea of –particularly when using rapid prototyping services– is whether they should use 3D printing or CNC machining for their design needs. Professional services like WayKen Rapid Prototype Manufacturing offer a choice between these two production methods (along with many others), but which is best for your specific application? It’s important to know what each technology is capable of, that way you can optimize your design to get the most out of your prototype.

3D Printing vs CNC Machining: Which Technology to Use With Rapid Prototyping Services

There are a number of things to consider when deciding between 3D printing and CNC machining for the prototyping phase of design. For instance, additive manufacturing is capable of producing complex geometries that would either be impossible or too costly to do with traditional techniques. 3D printing is also ideal in situations that require fast turnaround time, as a number of rapid prototyping services are able to produce and deliver 3D printed parts in just a few days.

Perhaps the most important factor in whether you should use 3D printing or CNC machining is the volume of your production. The best time to use additive manufacturing for prototyping is when you only need a small number of iterations at an affordable price. CNC machining, on the other hand, is more cost-efficient with slightly larger volumes, although higher part quantities that exceed 100 units might be best suited for injection molding or investment casting.

For prototypes that need to be highly functional and will undergo immense stress or strain, CNC machining might be the most viable technique. Generally speaking, CNC machining offers greater dimensional accuracy and utilizes materials that have much better mechanical properties than 3D printing. However, CNC services will usually end up being more expensive, so it’s important to weigh out cost vs quality when making this decision. At the same time, if you need to customize your design and produce parts that are not identical, 3D printing is by far the most efficient manufacturing technology to utilize.

To summarize, 3D printing is the best choice when you need a small number of prototypes at a low cost, especially if the design is complex and will be customized. CNC machining is the optimal method for medium to high volume prototyping production, as it offers superior repeatability, high accuracy and an all-around better surface finish.

WayKen Rapid Prototyping Service Offers the Best of Both Worlds

Of course, if you’re having a difficult time deciding between CNC machining and 3D printing, you can always opt to discuss the matter with a rapid prototyping service firm. WayKen Rapid Prototyping Manufacturing is comprised of an expert team that can help you figure out whether you should use CNC machining or 3D printing to produce your design.

The manufacturing service offers rapid prototyping in both stereolithography (SLA) and selective laser sintering (SLS), two highly distinct methods of additive manufacturing. SLA 3D printing is a UV curable resin-based process, and is most advantageous for speedy prototyping or master models that will be used to create urethane castings. Instead of using a high-powered laser to cure resin, like SLA, SLS technology utilizes a laser to sinter together powdered material into solid parts. For functional prototyping, SLS is the premier option due to the mechanical properties of Nylon material. Unlike the epoxy resin used with SLA, SLS materials are much more robust, and typically provides better resistance to chemicals, high temperature, wear and abrasion.

If you opt to use CNC machining for your prototyping needs instead of additive manufacturing, you will have the ability between producing your design in plastic or metal. This process is typically used in situations where a prototype needs to replicate the functionality and aesthetic of the final product or part. Although 3D printing is faster for small volume and short-run manufacturing, CNC machines can continuously run without human supervision, making it perfect for larger volumes.

Now that you know the basic differences between 3D printing and CNC machining, as well as the advantages to each one, it will be easier to select which manufacturing technique you should us to bring your design to production. If you still need assistance or want to learn more about the rapid prototyping services offered by WayKen, you can contact their team of experts here.