Rapidly growing technology has placed designers and manufacturers at a crossroads. With the introduction of new manufacturing techniques, individuals have to make an influential decision to determine what production process works best for their projects. Currently, there is an ongoing debate between 3D Printing and CNC machining. With each technique having its proponents and opponents, the bugging question remains to be, which of these computer-controlled methods is ideal for your kind of business. In this piece, we'll share our informed input on the CNC Machining vs. 3D Printing debate by taking an in-depth look at the key differences between the two. This will, in turn, help designers and manufacturers make an informed decision.  

What is the Difference Between CNC Machining and 3D Printing?

Before we jump straight into the differences, let’s start by finding out what is CNC, and what 3D printing entails. For starters, CNC is the short form for "Computer Numerical Control," and it is a software-controlled Machining technology that helps designers create a finished product from a solid block of material by cutting and removing the unwanted material. On the other hand, 3D Printing is a rapidly growing technology that helps manufacturers build three-dimensional products layer by layer from scratch.   

Differences in Processes

Although both 3D printers and CNC Machining work with computer-aided design software, the methods follow different processes to yield outputs. CNC Machining uses a technique that is the opposite of how the 3D printers work by removing the unwanted material as opposed to only laying the wanted material as 3D printers do. While CNC Machining Centers support a subtractive manufacturing technology, 3D printing follows an additive manufacturing technology.

Additive and Subtractive Manufacturing

As mentioned earlier, CNC Machining is a form of subtractive manufacturing that starts with a solid block of material, cuts out the unwanted parts, and creates a smoothly finished end product. 3D printing, on the other hand, is a form of additive manufacturing that involves the creation of an object from scratch using materials such as resins, plastic filaments, or metal powders. CNC machining can be likened to calving an object from marble, while 3D printing can be compared to molding something out of clay. However, in this case, this is not done by a human but rather a computer-aided machine.  

Uses of CNC Machining Centers and 3D Printers

With their unique characteristics, both CNC machining routers and 3D printers are suited for particular uses. Since CNC machining can create heavy, precise, and large objects, they can be used in the manufacture of bulk machines, engines, and commercial and industrial equipment. Besides, they also can scale between large and small outputs.

On the other hand, the adaptability of 3D printing makes it essential for building authentic, personalized designs for specific purposes. Besides, the additive, layering method they follow makes it unsuitable for creating large items. 

CNC machining can also be used to create products using high-density materials. It can also make outputs from wax, plastic, wood, and almost every material. But since 3D printers use specialized resins, plastic, some metals, and other materials, it cannot create items for use in demanding environments such as vehicles, planes, and production machinery as of yet.   However, it is ideal for developing small items with intricate designs such as prototypes.  

Differences in 3D Printers and CNC Cost

Although the cost comparison between 3D printing and CNC machining is hard to come by, 3D printing is less costly when you are starting.  You'll find 3D printers that begin from as low as $500, but for CNC Machining Centers, they can start from $2,000 (for table top models) on up to hundreds of thousands depending on your production requirements. However, the amount you spend depends on the unique needs of your project and the range accompanying accessories.

The Bottom Line: CNC vs. 3D Printing

From what we've seen, CNC Machining and 3D Printing overlap in some capability. Therefore, there is no one-size-fits-all solution in metal machining and manufacturing. Asking to choose among the two is like deciding what is essential between a ballpoint pen and a lead pencil. In some instances, you’ll need a pencil, but the pen will be the necessary item in other cases. As such, the type of metal machining method you select will be highly contingent on the unique needs of your shop or company.  

At Southern Fabricating Machinery Sales our support team are experts in helping you determine whether your application is right for 3D Printing or CNC Machining. We also have a wide variety of machines to choose from when selecting your process. Visit us today at www.southernfabsales.com or call us at 813-444-4555 for more info on 3D Printing and CNC Machining.

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