Key principles.
3D printing wins curves
Complex curves, internal features, lattices: 3D printing. Simple prismatic: CNC.
CNC scales
CNC scales to production volumes. 3D printing per-part cost similar at any volume.
CNC smoother
CNC Ra 0.4-1.6 µm. 3D printing rough as-built (Ra 5-15 µm).
CNC tighter
CNC ±0.025 mm. 3D printing ±0.1-0.2 mm typical.
CNC wider
CNC: any solid stock. 3D printing: limited polymer/metal range.
3D fastest
3D 2-5 days. CNC 1-3 weeks. Tooling adds 8-16 weeks.
FAQ
Prototype 1-10 pcs, complex impossible-to-machine geometry, lattice structures, custom anatomical implants.
Production 100+ pcs, tight tolerance ±0.05 mm, smooth surface, broad material selection.
3D print near-net + CNC critical features. Combines geometry freedom with precision.
Simple part: CNC cheaper. Complex part: 3D cheaper. Crossover depends on geometry.
3D printing 60-90% of equivalent wrought material. CNC bar stock has full properties.
3D for 1-100 typically. CNC 1-10000+. Injection molding 10000+ if geometry molds.
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