塑料CNC加工VS 3D打印, 最好的选择是什么?
In the previous article SUN-YEE TECH introduced two common ways of processing plastics in small quantities, 塑料CNC加工和3D打印. 两个方案各有优势. 如何选择最适合的方式?
在考虑原型和小批量生产时, 低成本, 快速交货, 而品质卓越的生产方式无疑是最理想的选择. 然而, 制造原型和批量零件是一个复杂的生产过程.
塑料CNC加工VS 3D打印
Depending on a variety of objective influences, we’ve compiled a list of 7 factors to help you understand plastic CNC processing and 3D printing.
- 精确 – Plastic CNC Processing
- Part Complexity – 3D Printing
- Speed – 3D Printing
- 尺寸 – CNC Plastics Processing
- Strength – CNC Plastics
- Material Selection – CNC Plastics Processing
- Environmental – 3D Printing
精确
There is no doubt that CNC machined parts have always been known for their precision.CNC machining controls the trajectory of the tool through a computer program, allowing for precision in every cut.3D printing, although also produced through a computer program, allows for precision, but it is not consistent. This is because 3D printing materials are susceptible to temperature and storage status.
Complexity of parts
CNC can machine parts with many complex surfaces. 然而, the more complex the part the more programming is required to design the tooling and movement paths increasing labor time and therefore price. In contrast, 3D printing has very few geometric constraints and is able to print freeform shapes in plastic with ease.
Speed
3D printing is superior in terms of speed. Once the file is prepared, the operator selects the part orientation, infill and support as needed, and it runs easily and unattended.CNC machining requires trained operators to program the computer before production can begin, which extends machining time.
尺寸
Both are not significantly restrictive in small-sized parts. For larger parts, 3D printing requires the design to be assembled by splitting multiple components and printing them together, while CNC machining machines are generally larger and take up more physical space, allowing them to be machined in a single pass.
Strength
While CNC-machined parts are structurally tightly integrated and exhibit better mechanical and thermal properties, 3D-printed parts have the potential for structural defects in the layer-to-layer structure, which can weaken the strength of the part.
Range of Material Options
CNC machining is capable of producing almost any plastic material, whereas 3D printing has a much narrower range of material options.
Environmentally Friendly
数控系统, as a subtractive machining process, inevitably wastes a portion of material through cutting. 3D printing’s additive manufacturing maximizes material savings and reduces material waste.