When the handboard project quotation needs to choose the right processing method for the characteristics of the parts in order to complete the handboard project faster and better. At present, the main hand plate processing is CNC machining, 3D printing, lamination, rapid mold and so on. Today let’s talk about the difference between CNC machining and 3D printing.
First of all, 3D printing is an additive technology, and CNC machining is a reduction technology, so they are very different in terms of materials.
1.Differences in materials
3D printing materials mainly include liquid resin (SLA), nylon powder (SLS), metal powder (SLM), gypsum powder (full color printing), sandstone powder (full color printing), wire (DFM), sheet (LOM) and so on. Liquid resins, nylon powders and metal powders account for the vast majority of the market for industrial 3D printing.
The materials used in CNC machining are all plates, that is, plate-like materials, through measuring the length, width and height of the parts + loss, and then cutting the corresponding size of the plate for processing. CNC machining material selection is more than 3D printing, general hardware and plastic sheets can be CNC machining, and the density of molded parts is better than 3D printing.
2. Differences in parts caused by forming principles
As we mentioned earlier, 3D printing is a kind of additive manufacturing, its principle is to cut the model into N layers /N points, and then pile up layer by layer/bit by bit in order, just like building blocks. Therefore, 3D printing can effectively process and produce parts with complex structures, such as hollow parts, while CNC is difficult to realize the processing of hollow parts.
CNC machining is reduced material manufacturing, through high-speed operation of various tools, according to the programming tool path to cut out the required parts. Therefore, CNC machining can only process a rounded corner with a certain arc, and can not directly process an internal right Angle, which can be achieved by wire cutting/sparking and other processes. External right Angle CNC machining is no problem. Therefore, parts with internal right angles can be considered to choose 3D printing processing production.
There is also the surface, if the parts surface area is more, it is also recommended to choose 3D printing, CNC machining surface is time-consuming, and if the programming and operator experience is not enough it is easy to leave obvious lines on the parts.
3. Differences in operating software
Most of the 3D printing slicing software is simple to operate, even if the layman can skillfully operate the slicing software in a day or two under professional guidance. Because the slicing software is currently optimized very simply, the support can be automatically generated, which is why 3D printing can be popularized by individual users.
CNC programming software is much more complex, and requires professionals to operate, and zero-based people generally need to learn about half a year. In addition, a CNC operator is required to operate the CNC machine.
Because the programming is very complex, a part can have many kinds of CNC machining solutions, and 3D printing will only have a small impact on the processing time consumables because of the placement position, which is relatively objective.
4. Differences in post-processing
There are not many post-processing options for 3D printed parts, and they are generally grinding, oil spraying, deburring, dyeing, and so on.
The CNC machining parts post-treatment options are varied, in addition to grinding, oil injection, deburring, as well as electroplating, screen printing, pad printing, metal oxidation, radium carving, sandblasting and so on.
Smell the way has successively, the profession has specialized. CNC machining and 3D printing have their own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right machining process plays a crucial role in your handboard project. Choose Welltech and our engineers will analyze and recommend your project.