What Is the Difference between CNC and 3D Printing?

2021-10-11

CNC machining is a subtractive technology, and 3D printing is an additive technology.
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), etc. Liquid resin, nylon powder and metal powder Occupies most of the market for industrial 3D printing.The materials used for CNC machining are all plates, which are plate-like materials. By measuring the length, width and height of the parts + consumptionIf it is damaged, cut the plate of the corresponding size for processing. There are more choices of CNC machining materials than 3D printing, general hardware and plastics Such plates can be CNC machined, and the density of the molded parts is better than that of 3D printing.

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2. Differences in parts due to the forming principle
As we mentioned earlier, 3D printing is a kind of additive manufacturing, its principle is to cut the model into N layers/N multi-points, and then follow the order Layer by layer / little by little, like building blocks. Therefore, 3D printing can effectively process and produce parts with complex structures. For example, hollow parts, while CNC is difficult to realize hollow parts processing. CNC machining is subtractive manufacturing, through various high-speed tools, cutting out the required parts according to the programmed tool path. Therefore CNC Machining can only process rounded corners with a certain radian, but cannot directly process inner right angles. It must be processed through wire cutting/sparking and other processes. to fulfill. Outside right-angle CNC machining is no problem. Therefore, parts with internal right angles can be considered for 3D printing processing. There is also a curved surface. If the surface area of the part is relatively large, it is recommended to choose 3D printing. CNC machining of the curved surface is very time-consuming, and If the programming and operator experience is not enough, it is easy to leave obvious lines on the parts.

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3. Differences in operating software
Most of the 3D printed slicing software is easy to operate, even a layman can operate the slicing proficiently in one or two days under professional guidance. Software. Because the slicing software is currently optimized to be very simple, the supports can be automatically generated, which is why 3D printing Can be popularized to individual users. CNC programming software is much more complicated and requires professionals to operate it. People with zero basic knowledge 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 complicated, a part can have many kinds of CNC machining schemes, and 3D printing will only be due to the correct placement. The processing time and consumables have a small impact, which is relatively objective.

4. Differences in post-processing There are not many post-processing options for 3D printed parts, generally polishing, spraying, deburring, dyeing and so on. The post-processing options of CNC machined parts are varied, in addition to polishing, oil injection, deburring, and electroplating. Silk screen, pad printing, metal oxidation, laser carving, sandblasting, etc.
There is a sequence of hearing the truth, and there is a specialization in the surgery industry. CNC machining and 3D printing have their own advantages and disadvantages. Choose the right processing technology Your prototype project plays a vital role. Choose Qi Le, our engineers will analyze and suggest your project.

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