If 3D Printing Will Be Replaced CNC Machining in the Future

Along technology developing, similar CNC machining, 3D printing also can be printing many of these plastics raw materials: resin, PMMA, ABS, PC, Nylon, Rubber a few just a name, and metal such as aluminum, stainless steel, brass, etc.. Processing by SLS, SLA, MFJ, FDM in a superfast speed and delivery time. How to operation a 3d printer is easier than CNC machines, even some 3D printing fans buy printers at home. It relies on 3D printers machines pricing have a broad range to choose too. From personal use only spend us$200 get one, to precision industrial grade application 10 million US dollars for a prototypes manufacturer. Not like CNC machines, the lowest price will take us $2,000 at least. Therefore, some people may wonder if 3D printing will be replaced CNC machining in the future?

In fact, the answer is nope. The main characteristic of 3D printing is complex geometry and structure components, which is difficult to manufacture if without molds. However, these samples most of the purposes of testing or as prototyping. Because 3D printing produce parts is superimposed layer by layer. That is means layers may separate under stress, or the connected may not stable, aging and other problems.

 

CNC machining milling any plastic and metal parts, even wood raw materials, no matter how big of size. On the other hand, reach precision accuracy up to 0.001 mm and support more surface treatments, the another one of the advantages is parts can be used to standard products as like mass if by CNC process. Due to stable substantial properties, good appearance. At the same time, if batch production, CNC machining is more cost-competitive than 3D printing, because 3D printing is additive manufacturing, each part takes production cost and time are similar, it’s difficult to reduce them although big quantities. But CNC milling is different, the costs will decrease as the quantity increases, thanks to less labor, fixture tools and so on costs.

3D printing will be as an option besides CNC machining, and more and more popular, but cannot to replace CNC.