Submitted by: Greg Conder, PE
The Costs of CNC Machining Compared to 3D Printing
At C&C Machine, we have CNC machining, manual machining and 3D printing capabilities. This article from manufacturing.net describes how sometimes machining is the ideal choice of manufacturing method, while at other times, 3D printing is the best choice.
From our perspective, the set-up time and tooling costs are less with 3D printing. However, the per part processing time is slower with 3D printing. Therefore, one consideration of method choice is the volume of parts needed.
Another consideration is that of required raw materials. Currently, our 3D printed materials are limited to plastics, although new printing materials and printers are being developed rapidly. Our customers have found that the 3D printing materials are great for prototyping. On occasion, the materials have the needed mechanical and chemical properties for low volume production.
Contact us today for your CNC machining, manual machining and 3D printing needs.
