Comparison of CNC machining and 3D printing

CNC machining, on the other hand, uses sheet metal. The length, width, height, and wear parameters of the component are measured, and the corresponding sheet metal is cut for processing. Cnc Machining offers a wider range of material options than 3D printing, including general metal and plastic sheet metal. Furthermore, the resulting molded parts are more dense than those produced by 3D printing.

Part differences due to molding principles

3D printing involves cutting a model into multiple layers or points, then stacking them up sequentially, layer by layer or bit by bit, like building blocks. This makes 3D printing highly effective for producing complex parts, such as hollow parts, which are difficult to achieve with CNC machining.

CNC machining is a subtractive manufacturing process, using various high-speed cutting tools to cut the desired parts according to programmed tool paths. Therefore, CNC machining can only produce rounded corners with a certain degree of curvature. While CNC machining can easily produce external right angles, it cannot directly produce internal right angles, requiring processes such as wire cutting and electrical discharge (EDM). Furthermore, CNC machining is time-consuming for curved surfaces, and if the programmer and operator lack experience, it can easily leave noticeable marks on the part. 3D printing presents no processing difficulties for parts with internal right angles or large curved surfaces.

The difference between CNC and 3D printing process principles

Some people compare 3D printing to piling up cake flour to make a cake, while CNC is cutting the big cake into small pieces. This metaphor is quite appropriate.

Differences in operating software

Most 3D printing slicing software is easy to use, and with professional guidance, one can become proficient in it in just one or two days. Slicing software is currently optimized for simplicity, with automatic support generation, which is why 3D printing has become so popular among individual users. 3D printing data processing software, such as Magic s, and CNC programming software, are much more complex and require specialized expertise. A beginner typically needs about six months to learn. Furthermore, a skilled CNC operator is required to operate the machine. Commonly used software include UG, MASTERCAM, CIMATRON, and domestic Jingdiao. Learning these software programs is challenging.

The CNC programming interface allows for numerous CNC machining options for a single part, making programming quite complex. However, 3D printing, on the other hand, only slightly affects machining time and consumables depending on placement, making it relatively straightforward. Differences in post-processing: 3D printed parts have limited post-processing options, typically consisting of grinding, sandblasting, deburring, and dyeing. Post-processing options for CNC machined part are diverse, including polishing, oil spraying, and deburring, as well as electroplating, silk screen printing, pad printing, metal oxidation, laser engraving, and sandblasting. CNC machining and 3D printing each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right processing method is crucial.