CNC Machining vs 3D Printing: Which Manufacturing Method is Best for Plastic Prototypes?

Moreover, the product development process always involves the creation of plastic prototypes. This means that choosing an appropriate production technique is crucial for this stage. CNC Machining and 3D printing are commonly used approaches for producing such items. However, which one is a better choice? The paper will compare these two methods in detail, highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and significant distinctions. In terms of accuracy, efficiency rate, range of materials available, and cost-effectiveness, this manual can guide your selection while weighing CNC versus 3D printing as alternatives for prototyping.

What are the key differences between CNC machining and 3D printing?

There are significant differences between CNC machining and 3D printing regarding processes, applications, and material utilization.

• Process: In contrast to the additive nature of 3D printing, CNC machining is a subtractive method that involves removing materials from a solid block to achieve the desired shape. On the other hand, 3D printing is an additive process in which parts are built layer by layer from a digital model.
• Material Compatibility: CNC machining supports different types of materials, including metals, plastics, and composites, which makes it ideal for creating durable, functional parts. However, depending on the type of printer used, 3D printing can only work with some specific materials, such as certain plastics, resins, and a few types of metals.
• Precision and Surface Finish: Unlike most 3D printing technologies with low-quality surface finishes and inaccuracies in their prints, CNC machining usually offers better precision and superior surface finish levels, making it suitable for parts needing high tolerances.
• Complexity of Design: Unlike CNC machining, which cannot produce complex geometries or intricate details, 3D printers can create more complex structures with irregular shapes.
• Production Speed and Cost: Though both may require initial investment costs, if this was excluded, then mass production would be cheaper using CNC, while lower volume production runs, as well as quick prototyping, will be better off through utilizing any type or form of an affordable 3-D printer.

How do the manufacturing processes differ?

CNC machining and 3D printing differ in how they utilize materials and create products. The former is a subtractive process that commences with a solid material blank and then strips away to obtain the final shape. At the same time, the latter builds up layers of polymers, metals, or composites, thus making it an additive manufacturing process. Furthermore, CNC machining usually gives parts of higher accuracy and surface roughness whereas 3D printing has unique advantages for producing complex designs requiring minimal waste of materials at the prototype stage. Consequently, each method is particularly applicable to given uses or production requirements.

What materials can be used in each method?

CNC machining is compatible with various materials, including metals, plastics, wood, and composites. Typical metals used include aluminum, steel, titanium, and brass, favored for their durability and strength in applications needing high accuracy. Plastics like ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), polycarbonate, or nylon are also widely used for lightweight or corrosion resistance components. CNC machining often uses wood and specific composite materials for customized industrial or artistic products.

On the other hand, 3D printing supports an expanding selection of materials categorized broadly into polymers, metals, ceramics, and even bioprinting media for specialized applications. Among polymers, there are commonly used ones such as polylactic acid (PLA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) utilized for prototyping and functional parts. Metal 3D printing encompasses stainless steel aluminum titanium cobalt-chromium that enables the production of aerospace and medical industry’s complex, lightweight, strong parts, respectively. Moreover, ceramic materials made of 3D printing are also used in heat-resistant electrically insulating parts that are ideal for industrial use. There are also emerging developments like composite filaments containing carbon fiber or glass-reinforced polymers, which enhance their structural properties.

On the other hand, each method’s specific compatibility with the materials indicates its strength; this allows all industries to optimize their manufacturing processes based on design requirements, performance expectations, and cost-effectiveness.

How do production times compare?

Production times within 3D printing vary depending on the applied technology, material, and complexity of the object under production. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), for example, is generally slower in output due to a layer-by-layer method of deposition that takes a few hours up to several days for complex designs. Stereolithography (SLA), on the other hand, is faster in terms of high-detail objects because the photopolymer resin cures efficiently in layers.

Compared to traditional manufacturing techniques, such as injection molding or CNC machining, 3D printing is very good at prototyping and small-scale production because it takes little time to set up. For example, traditional injection molding may take weeks to prepare molds for mass production, while 3D printers can make a tool or part overnight. Nevertheless, conventional methods are still better than 3D printing in terms of speed and efficiency when dealing with large quantities of products. Based on recent reports, improvements in throughput from modern developments such as Multi Jet Fusion (MJF), Continuous Fiber 3D (CF3D) printing allows some applications to have production rates as high as ten times faster than older 3D printing methods. These advances continue to narrow the difference between additive manufacturing and conventional approaches, indicating CNC’s benefits over 3D printing.

Which method offers better dimensional accuracy and surface finish?

What is the typical tolerance for CNC machined parts vs 3D printed parts?

Most 3D printing methods tend to have higher dimensional accuracy and tighter tolerances than CNC machining. CNC machining, in general, can achieve tolerances in the region of ±0.005 inches (±0.127 mm) or even finer depending on the material, equipment, and part design. Sophisticated CNC machines can often operate within tolerances as narrow as ±0.001 inches (±0.025 mm), which makes them ideal for highly detailed components or those that must be made precisely.

On the flip side, different 3D printed parts have varying levels of their dimensions’ accuracies and tolerance based on the technique employed for printing. For example, fused deposition modeling (FDM) usually attains tolerances ranging from ±0.005 to ±0.02 inches (±0.127 to ±0.5 mm), dependent on layer height and material used [4]. Among other things, Stereolithography (SLA) and selective laser sintering (SLS) exhibit better accuracy where tolerances are kept at approximately ±0.002 – ±0.01 inches (±0.05 to ±0.25mm). New methods like Multi Jet Fusion (MJF), however, are now closing in on their traditional counterparts with capabilities of achieving up to ±00 2 inch limit, including small-sized or medium-sized parts especially [4].

The ultimate choice of a method is based on the unique demands of an application. In cases where extreme accuracy and good surface finishes are needed, CNC machining is the preferred method; however, additive manufacturing methods are becoming more advanced, thus closing in on this gap while offering other benefits, such as intricate shapes and less material use.

How does surface finish quality differ between the two methods?

For surface finish quality, it is important to consider CNC machining and additive manufacturing techniques. The surface finish offered by CNC machining is superior, with achievable roughness levels of about 0.4 µm Ra depending on the material and cutting parameters, which can be a requirement for selective parts. CNC processes like milling or turning are exact in removing materials and leaving smooth, consistent surfaces (Schneider et al., 2013). In addition, tools such as diamond-tipped cutters could enhance the finish for highly demanding applications.

Conversely, additive manufacturing typically generates rougher surfaces due to its layer-by-layer building process. Common types of 3D printing technology, such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) or Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) have a surface roughness that varies between 5 µm up to 20 µm Ra depending on the layer height and material properties, etc.. Still, the surface qualities have been greatly improved by additives manufacturing methods such as resin-based Stereolithography (SLA) or Multi Jet Fusion (MJF), achieving values as low as 0.8 µm Ra in some instances; this may also involve post-processing procedures aimed at achieving better surface finishes such as sanding, polishing or chemical smoothing at an added time and cost for making these parts (Islam et al., 2020).

In summary, CNC machining is still the best choice for applications that require a top-quality surface finish and strict tolerances. Nonetheless, additive manufacturing is changing, and advancements in technology and post-processing methods are gradually reducing disparities in surface quality.

What post-processing options are available for each method?

Post-processing Alternatives for CNC Machining.

• Deburring – the process of smoothing surfaces by removing burrs or burs that are left from machining.
• Polishing – results in a smooth or glossy surface finish.
• Surface Coating – enhances aesthetics and durability with protective layers such as anodizing, plating, and powder coating.
• Grinding – Grinding, if necessary, can improve the flatness and texture of the surface further.
• The post-processing options for additive manufacturing, including CNC versus 3D printing methods, can significantly affect the final quality of parts.

Support Removal – getting rid of support structures used during printing

• Sanding – which is necessary in 3D printing to minimize visible layer lines
• Chemical Smoothing – application of steam and/or liquid agents to get a polished appearance
• Painting or Coating – coloring/finishing printed parts
• Heat Treatment- this increases the strength and performance characteristics of metal-printed components.

How do CNC machining and 3D printing compare in terms of cost?

What factors influence the cost of each manufacturing method?

Factors affecting the cost of CNC machining

• Type of Material- The cost varies with the material being machined with metals like titanium and stainless steel, which generally cost more than plastics.
• Complexity of Parts – More delicate designs often call for more time for the machine and may require special tools, making it costly.
• Volume– Higher quantity reduces the cost per unit since the initial set-up costs are shared out among all parts.
• Time on Machine Tool – Increased production times lead to a direct increase in operating costs.

low-volume

• Material Type- Costs vary depending on materials such as common resins, thermoplastics, or metal powders.
• Printing Technology – Different technologies (for example, FDM, SLA, SLS) exist with varying associated costs depending on the equipment and materials used.
• Size/Geometry Of Part – Greater part sizes or complexity consume a greater amount of material and take longer to produce, resulting in higher prices.
• Post Processing Needs – There are additional steps required, for instance, sanding or painting, which make the final printed part costly.

Which method is more cost-effective for small-batch production?

Various factors determine whether traditional manufacturing methods, such as injection molding or additive manufacturing techniques, for example, 3D printing, represent the most cost-effective way to produce in small batches:

• Setup and Tooling Costs – Injection molding is an example of a traditional method that incurs high costs in tooling at the start, hence not appropriate for small batch production. For instance, depending on its complexity, producing a custom mold can cost anything between $5,000 and more than 50,000 dollars. On the contrary, 3D printing does away with tooling requirements but uses CAD designs to start the production process, which saves much money, especially in smaller quantities.
• Per-Unit Cost – In large-scale manufacturing of products, the cost per unit is reduced significantly through injection molding compared to other processes. However, smaller runs have a higher per-unit cost because of divided tooling costs. On the flipside, 3D Printing maintains near-constant per-unit pricing, making it more attractive within one to thousand units.
• Turnaround Time – As opposed to regular production methods, which may take hours or even days, sometimes depending on part complexity, additive manufacturing techniques perform faster, especially when using 3D printers. The fabrication alone of molds used by injection molding may take weeks or months, delaying production activities.
• Material Flexibility: Various materials, such as polymers, composites, and metals, can be used for additive manufacturing without altering tooling setups. Some traditional methods may require specific changes in the tooling to accommodate a material change, further complicating the process and increasing costs for short production runs.
• Facts: Numerous studies indicate that 3D printing often saves 30% -50% on costs compared to conventional methods where production volume is below 500 units due to its low start-up cost and reduced wastage. Furthermore, additive manufacturing allows inexpensive customization without affecting efficiency for some geometries and custom designs.

Conclusion

Sometimes, 3D printing is better than traditional manufacturing methods for small-batch production. The technology’s ability to reduce initial investments, maintain competitive per-unit costs at low volumes, and shorten production lead times has made it suitable for prototyping purposes, unusual geometries, and limited-edition products.

How does scaling production affect costs for each method?

When assessing the cost implications of scaling production, it is critical to consider the primary cost drivers in traditional manufacturing and 3D printing.

Scaling production in traditional manufacturing processes, e.g., injection molding or CNC machining, generally results in decreased unit costs. This phenomenon is largely due to economies of scale. After extensive amortization of upfront costs, including tooling and setup, over numerous units, per-item production expenditure decreases significantly. For example, injection molding can incur an initial investment on tooling that will range between $5,000-$50,000 depending on part complexity but subsequent units may cost as little as a few cents or even a few dollars each in high-volume production. Traditional methods tend to be more cost-effective beyond a particular output level, usually at thousands of units, where fixed costs are evenly spread out among them all.

This is not the case with 3D printing. On the other hand, the expense of each 3D print object remains rather consistent irrespective of how many are printed due to this method being a layer-by-layer production technique with no significant reductions in material usage or time required per unit when output increases. This is a positive thing compared to large upfront investments into molding or tooling for small through medium run lengths. It means that by incorporating design flexibility and shorter lead times into the equation, 3D-printing can often remain competitive for production volumes less than about 500-1000 units but begins to become less cost-effective beyond this range as it cannot scale up like traditional manufacturing.

Clearly, scaling production represents a big difference between these approaches. For instance, traditional manufacturing works best in scenarios where high volume offsets costs resulting from economies of scale, whereas low to medium-level productions that require complicated customization without any additional cost consequences are better suited for 3D printing. Based on their specific production needs, organizations should consider this compromise while settling on an appropriate approach to manufacturing.

What are the limitations of each manufacturing method?

What geometric constraints exist for CNC machining?

Concerning CNC machining, I know its geometric constraints mainly arise from the cutting tools and machine access. The difficulty of internal sharp corners is often due to tool roundness, resulting in radii in such places. Moreover, very deep pockets or complex undercuts may be very difficult or even impossible to machine because of the limitations of tool reach and interference. Similarly, I also appreciate that some designs can be improved so they are more accessible by the machine to all surfaces as quickly as possible.

What are the size limitations for 3D printing?

Depending on the printer type and technology being used, there is a significant variation in the size limitations of 3D printing. One example is that desktop FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers usually have build volumes measuring 150 x 150 x 150 mm to about 300 x 300 x 400 mm. However, industrial-grade 3D printers can support larger dimensions, with some having build sizes exceeding or approaching dimensions of approximately 1,000 x 1,000 x 1,000 mm. For instance, big-dimension FDM printers often used for prototyping and manufacturing can accommodate sizes close to two meters along one axis.

Optical systems, including resin vats, limit the print sizes of SLA (Stereolithography) or DLP (Digital Light Processing), thus making them possess smaller build areas than others. Typically, the sizes range from a little over one hundred millimeters on each side at the low end for small office versions up to nearly three hundred millimeters on one axis for industrial models.

Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) and Electron Beam Melting (EBM), which are metal 3D printing processes, involve print chambers measuring roughly twenty-four inches on each side to about nineteen inches. Meanwhile, these limits are already being exceeded by new technologies for large-scale metal printing;

These size constraints usually necessitate their segmentation and post-assembly despite their impressive capabilities. Factors such as the design of the printer, compatibility with materials used, or thermal /structural stability in the build system also matter when considering realistic size limits for any given application.

How do material properties affect the choice between CNC and 3D printing?

The properties of materials play a crucial role in choosing between CNC machining and 3D printing as the most suitable manufacturing method for a particular application. CNC machining applies to metals (e.g., aluminum, steel, titanium) and some plastics, as it performs best in terms of producing parts with high strength, resistance to heat, and toughness. It can machine dense and hard materials with great accuracy; hence, it’s a choice for different applications in the aerospace industry, automotive sectors, and medical fields where mechanical properties are needed.

3D printing works differently by using additive manufacturing techniques that allow the use of photopolymer materials like thermoplastics (e.g., PLA, ABS, Nylon), selective metals, or composite powders. Recent improvements in materials science have resulted in the production of high-performance substances with enhanced flexibility, tensile strength, and tolerance to harsh conditions. Nonetheless, unlike those manufactured by computer numerical control machining, these materials often do not exhibit isotropic mechanical properties because they are built up layer by layer.

CNC-machined aluminum, for example, is noted in research findings to achieve yield strengths exceeding 400 MPa; this makes it necessary for load-bearing components, while 3D-printed aluminum normally has tensile strengths ranging from around 210-220MPa depending on the print method used. Similarly, common thermoplastics such as PLA usually have a tensile strength of around 60 MPa, which is good for prototyping but unsuitable for heavy-duty applications like CNC-machined Delrin or Nylon, which easily surpasses 70-80MPa.

Moreover, material compatibility also affects cost considerations, especially when parts require unsuitable materials for traditional CNC machining processes. Whereas subtractive techniques of CNC machining often result in increased material wastage, 3D printing minimizes the wastefulness of materials. On the other hand, some 3D printing materials, including high-performance polymers and metal powders, may be more expensive and require specialized post-processing methods to add functional properties.

Finally, decision-making between CNC and 3D printing substantially depends on specific material needs involving mechanical properties, surface finish, thermal performance, and cost limits of an intended application.

When should you choose CNC machining over 3D printing for plastic parts?

What types of projects benefit most from CNC machining?

CNC machining is particularly useful for projects requiring high precision, close tolerances, and excellent surface finishes. Aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing industries depend on CNC machining, which produces components with an accuracy of up to 0.001 inches in many cases. It can, therefore, be used in applications where even minute errors could compromise its functionality or safety.

CNC machining is also suitable for manufacturing plastic parts with high material stability and deformation resistance. For instance, advanced plastics such as industrial grade PEEK, Delrin, or PTFE can be machined to yield consistent mechanical properties and performance. Based on recent industry data, CNC machining has faster production speeds for low- to medium-volume projects for hundreds or thousands of exact replicas compared to additive manufacturing technology (AM), thus making it an economical choice if hundreds or thousands of identical parts need to be produced.

The capability and repeatability of CNC machining are other critical aspects that differentiate it from the 3D printing process. In cases where complex designs need to be replicated in large quantities, CNC machines ensure consistency is retained across all iterations. Also, when dealing with parts under tough strains, they provide uniform density within their structures devoid of weak points, producing fault-free components compared to those made by 3D printers. This makes it perfect for supporting or carrying heavy loads during construction.

How does part complexity influence the decision?

When creating delicate and accurate designs, the decision to use CNC machining is heavily determined by part complexity. CNC machines allow for a high level of detailing and stringent tolerances, making them suitable for producing parts with intricate features. However, this increases both the time spent on machining and its cost—factors that should be adequately considered. Nevertheless, CNC machining is still often chosen for applications demanding exact outcomes.

In what scenarios is 3D printing preferable to CNC machining?

What advantages does 3D printing offer for prototyping?

3D printing offers several significant prototyping benefits: speed, cost efficiency, and design flexibility. It allows for fast prototype production, reducing lead times compared to conventional methods. Furthermore, the low-cost technology eliminates expensive tooling or molds for small-volume productions. Besides, it supports intricate and custom designs that enable engineers to iterate and improve models quickly. All these advantages make it an ideal choice for early-stage product development and innovation.

When is 3D printing more suitable for end-use parts?

Custom-made part designs or detailed end-use 3D printing are more appropriate when producing small quantities of parts. These industries include health care, automotive, and aerospace, as they mostly require small-batch production runs or individualized components. Also, 3D printing lowers inventories and lead times by enabling on-demand manufacturing.

Can CNC machining and 3D printing be used together in a project?

How can these methods complement each other in the manufacturing process?

Several ways exist in which CNC machining and 3D printing can work together to optimize manufacturing. In the creation of rapid prototypes and complex geometries, 3D printing is unrivaled, but CNC machining takes the cake when it comes to accuracy, surface finish, and precision. The most common way is using 3D printing to make a near-net shape element before using CNC machining for finishing operations. This hybrid approach reduces material wastage and production time, hence its popularity between the two options.

In aerospace industry, internal components with intricate lattice structures are often produced using 3D printing so as to minimize their weight without compromising strength. Such products are then finished up through the CNC machining process, thereby ensuring that critical tolerances are met and final surfaces look smooth. Moreover, these methods boost the capabilities of materials;. At the same time, advanced composites or lightweight polymers have been used in 3D printing, such materials can be refined by employing CNC machining for use in high-performance applications.

As recent case studies have shown, small-to-medium production runs that take advantage of both processes at once may incur up to fifty percent fewer costs and achieve thirty percent shorter lead times. When additive manufacturing strengths are integrated with subtractive machining, increased efficiencies, flexibility, and innovation in rapid prototyping or end-use part production can be realized.

What are some examples of hybrid manufacturing approaches?

Tool Manufacturing in the Automotive Industry

Hybrid manufacturing is exemplified by custom tooling production in the automobile sector. Manufacturers have increasingly employed 3D printing to develop dies and molds via metal additive manufacturing, which results in near-net-shaped structures with minimum material waste. The latter are then fine-tuned through CNC machining to achieve the desired dimensional accuracy for injection molding or stamping processes. Such a way of doing things has proved able to reduce tooling production time by around forty percent while at the same time reducing material consumption by approximately thirty percent, hence making it cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Metal Component Manufacture for Aerospace Applications

Aerospace companies have utilized the hybrid manufacturing process for turbine blades and other jet engine parts. For instance, 3D printing builds up complex geometries like internal cooling channels typically made from heat-resistant superalloys. Post-machining using CNC ensures the product meets tight tolerances and surface finishes required for extreme operating environments. Research findings reveal that this method can decrease weight by up to twenty-five percent with improved or unchanged mechanical properties, enhancing fuel efficiency in modern aircraft.

Custom Made Medical Implants

This is where the health sector applies mixed manufacturing techniques to create customized implants such as hip replacements or cranial plates. 3D printing provides an avenue through which parts can be designed to match a patient’s specific anatomy using biocompatible materials like titanium alloys. Milling machines finish critical surfaces, including interfacial areas, for perfect fitting and smoothness. This process results in higher levels of customization that enhance patient outcomes and reduce production time by almost 30% compared to conventional methods.

Energy-Related Applications

Additionally, hybrid manufacturing is widely adopted when making critical components for the energy industry, like impellers and pump housings. Additive manufacturing helps build these parts with optimized internal features for fluid dynamics, while CNC machining achieves external precision plus assembly compatibility. The combination has led to lead time reductions, with some operations experiencing 45% faster production cycles than standard approaches.

Thus, organizations are able to secure the best performance, cost savings, and sustainability targets through the deployment of hybrid manufacturing across industries. Integration between additive and subtractive methods may improve fabrication accuracy and efficiency, thereby opening new dimensions in manufacturing workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do 3D printing and CNC machining differ in making plastic prototypes?

A: While 3D printing is an additive manufacturing process where objects are built up layer by layer, CNC machining is a subtractive manufacturing technique that cuts material from a solid block. 3D printing is generally preferable for complex geometries and small series, while CNC machining allows higher precision and more plastic prototype materials.

Q: When should I prioritize 3D printing over CNC machining for plastic prototypes?

A: When you have complex part geometry, small batch size, or need rapid prototyping time, go for 3D printing. Also, 3D printing is beneficial when the part has internal cavities or complex features that would be hard to obtain with CNC milling.

Q: What are some advantages of using CNC machining for building plastic prototypes?

A: Some advantages of using CNC machining to create plastic prototypes include higher accuracy, better surface quality, and materials availability. In addition, CNC machines offer tighter tolerances; thus, they are often used for parts that demand specific mechanical properties or closely mimic the final product, especially when metal parts are considered.

Q: How does part geometry affect the choice between 3D printing and CNC machining?

A: Part geometry influences whether using 3D printing or CNC machining is best. It is well-suited for producing parts with intricate details like those found in organic shapes and complex internal structures. CNC is more suitable for making parts with simple geometries and flat surfaces according to cutting tools that can be accessed easily. Look at the prototypes’ geometry when deciding between these methods.

Q: What materials can be used in 3D printing vs CNC machining for plastic prototypes?

A: 3D printing typically utilizes thermoplastic filaments like PLA, ABS, and PETG, as well as resin-based materials for SLA printing. On the other hand, CNC machining provides a wider range of material options, including engineering plastics such as nylon, acetal, and PEEK. For your prototype, CNC machining may be preferable if it has specific material properties or needs to be made from the same material as the final product.

Q: How do 3D printing and CNC machining compare in terms of production speed for plastic prototypes?

A: However, Production speed relies on numerous variables; generally speaking, 3D printing is swifter when it comes to small batches of complicated parts, while large figures with simpler shapes are produced quickly using CNC milling. For instance, a 3D printer builds parts one layer after another, which might consume time if they are big or solid objects. In contrast to that, rapid manufacturing is possible using CNC milling, especially when working with softer plastics, but setup time could take longer for more complex details.

Q: How do I determine if 3D printing or CNC machining is the best option for my plastic prototype?

A: When deciding which method to use, consider part geometry, needed accuracy, material characteristics, batch size, and production speed. Examine your needs against each process’s strengths using CNC versus 3D printing. For complex one-off prototypes, 3D printing could be chosen. CNC machining might be better for prototypes that have to meet tight tolerances or specific materials. In certain instances, both approaches may be used for optimum outcomes.

Reference Sources

1. Title: The effect of 3D printing assumptions and CNC machining conditions on the mechanical parameters of a chosen PET material

• Authors: P. Krawulski, T. Dyl
• Publication Date: 2023-03-01
• Summary: The current study investigates the mechanical properties of parts made of PET material using FDM (3D printing) and CNC machining. It compares the strength and dimensional accuracy of each method.
• Methodology: The authors used both methods to sample different diameters and lengths, and they ran static compression tests on them. This research examined the difficulties of preparation, execution time, cost, accuracy, and material characteristics.

2. Title: Determining the Best Suitable Cutting Tool for 3D Printed PLA Parts Using CNC Milling

• Author(s): F. Kartal, Arslan Kaptan
• Publication Date: 27 May 2023
• Summary: This research aims to determine a suitable cutting tool for CNC milling of 3D printed PLA parts and its impacts on machining parameters and outcomes compared to conventional CNC materials.
• Methodology: A plastic plate was printed using a 3D printer, and different tools were used to obtain the desired diameter dimensions. Optimal milling parameters for PLA were established, including spindle speed, feed rate, and depth of cut.

3. Title: 3D Printing – A Promising Revolutionary Technology in Pharmaceutical Drug Development and Health Care

• Authors: A. Majumdar et al.
• Publication Date: 2023-02-14
• Summary: This paper delves into the merits of 3D printing in drug delivery systems vis a vis regular fabrication techniques, including computer numerical control (CNC) machining, underlining its flexibility and customization abilities.
• Methodology: The authors reviewed various studies on 3D printing technologies and their pharmaceutical applications, comparing them with conventional methods regarding efficiency, customization, and production speed.

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