{"id":22387,"date":"2024-12-06T10:39:01","date_gmt":"2024-12-06T09:39:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/"},"modified":"2024-12-06T10:39:01","modified_gmt":"2024-12-06T09:39:01","slug":"cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing","status":"publish","type":"articles","link":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/","title":{"rendered":"CNC Machining vs 3D Printing: Select the Best Plastic Manufacturing Method for Your Project"},"content":{"rendered":"<div role=\"navigation\" aria-label=\"Table of Contents\" class=\"simpletoc wp-block-simpletoc-toc\"><h2 class=\"simpletoc-title\">Table of Contents<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"simpletoc-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#h-quick-reference-table\">Quick Reference Table<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#checklist-choosing-between-cnc-machining-and-3d-printing-for-polymers\">Checklist: Choosing Between CNC Machining and 3D Printing for Polymers<\/a>\n\n\n<\/li>\n\n<li><a href=\"#material-properties-and-process-compatibility-matrix\">Material Properties and Process Compatibility Matrix<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#mechanical-property-comparison-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\">Mechanical Property Comparison: CNC Machining vs 3D Printing<\/a>\n\n\n<\/li>\n\n<\/li>\n\n<li><a href=\"#when-to-choose-injection-molding-over-cnc-machining-or-3d-printing\">When to Choose Injection Molding Over CNC Machining or 3D Printing<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#final-decision-guidelines-for-cnc-machining-and-3d-printing-of-polymers\">Final Decision Guidelines for CNC Machining and 3D Printing of Polymers<\/a>\n\n\n<\/li>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve ever debated whether to use CNC machining or 3D printing for a project, you\u2019re not alone. Both are powerful methods for manufacturing plastic parts, but they serve different purposes depending on your needs. CNC machining is like a sculptor, meticulously cutting away material to reveal your part, while 3D printing builds parts layer by layer, much like stacking bricks to create a solid structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"510\" height=\"459\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/subtractive-vs-additive-manufacturing.png\" alt=\"Subtractive manufacturing vs. additive manufacturing\" class=\"wp-image-65495\" style=\"max-width:461px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/subtractive-vs-additive-manufacturing.png 510w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/subtractive-vs-additive-manufacturing-300x270.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 510px) 100vw, 510px\" \/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/subtractive-vs-additive-manufacturing.png\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22387\" data-caption=\"\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/subtractive-vs-additive-manufacturing.png\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n    <aside class=\"article-content-aside\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/subtractive-additive-manufacturing\/\" class=\"aside-image sidebar__aside-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/3D-printer-manufacturing-big-question-mark.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/subtractive-additive-manufacturing\/\" class=\"aside-link\">Subtractive Manufacturing vs. Additive Manufacturing<\/a>    <\/aside>\r\n    \n\n\n<p>Each process has unique advantages\u2014CNC machining delivers high precision and material versatility, while 3D printing shines for complex geometries and rapid prototyping. Determining which method to use depends on a variety of factors, from design complexity and material requirements to production speed and budget considerations.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-quick-reference-table\"><strong>Quick Reference Table<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>The following quick check table provides an at-a-glance comparison to help you assess which process might best suit your needs or if a combination of both could be utilized for optimal results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"3251\" height=\"4056\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-plastic.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-65507\" style=\"max-width:713px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-plastic.png 3251w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-plastic-240x300.png 240w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-plastic-821x1024.png 821w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-plastic-768x958.png 768w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-plastic-1231x1536.png 1231w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-plastic-1642x2048.png 1642w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 3251px) 100vw, 3251px\" \/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-plastic.png\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22387\" data-caption=\"\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-plastic.png\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"checklist-choosing-between-cnc-machining-and-3d-printing-for-polymers\"><strong>Checklist: Choosing Between CNC Machining and 3D Printing for Polymers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Use this quick-reference checklist to evaluate which manufacturing process suits your project needs. For each question, find whether CNC machining, 3D printing (3DP), or both offer the best solution.<\/p>\n\n\n    <aside class=\"article-content-aside\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/3d-printing-strong-materials\/\" class=\"aside-image sidebar__aside-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/3D-printed-parts-with-strong-materials.jpg\" alt=\"3D printed parts with strong materials\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/3d-printing-strong-materials\/\" class=\"aside-link\">10 Strongest Materials for 3D Printing<\/a>    <\/aside>\r\n    \n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Do you need uniform mechanical properties throughout the part?<\/strong> If yes, <strong>CNC machining<\/strong> is the best pick. It produces isotropic components with consistent mechanical and thermal properties throughout the material, ideal for load-bearing applications or mechanical assemblies. 3D printed parts have anisotropic characteristics due to their layered construction.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Is high tensile strength critical for your part?<\/strong> Then <strong>CNC machining<\/strong> is the way to go. Components made with CNC machining often achieve 40\u201360% higher tensile strength than 3D-printed parts using the same materials, making it ideal for high-strength applications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Do you require a short production timeline? <\/strong>Choose <strong>3D printing<\/strong>. Processes like SLS typically take 3\u20135 working days, including setup, printing, and post-processing. In contrast, CNC machining requires longer lead times\u2014usually 10+ working days\u2014due to extensive setup, programming, and tooling preparation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Are you producing a low volume of parts (1\u201310 units)?<\/strong> Then <strong>3D printing<\/strong> is your best pick. It offers lower per-unit costs for small runs thanks to its minimal setup requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Are you producing high volumes (50+ units)?<\/strong> Opt for<strong> CNC machining<\/strong>. It becomes more cost-effective at high volumes as setup costs are distributed over a larger number of parts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Are flexible materials, photopolymers, or composite resins required?<\/strong> Your answer is 3D printing. It supports exclusive materials like TPU, TPE, specialized photopolymer resins, and composites not available in CNC machining.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Is cost a primary concern?<\/strong>\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>For low volumes (1\u201310 units), 3D printing is the more affordable option.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For high volumes (50+ units), CNC machining becomes the cost-effective choice due to amortized setup costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For medium volumes (10\u201350 units), consider MJF, which offers efficient build volume utilization at a reasonable cost.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Do you need a manufacturing method that can scale for future production? <\/strong>Then <strong>CNC machining<\/strong> is the better pick. It\u2019s well-suited for medium to high production volumes, where setup costs can be amortized across larger batches. On the other hand, 3D printing excels at one-offs and low-volume production but becomes less cost-effective as quantities increase.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colored-machined-parts-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"Colored plastic parts that were casted and CNC machined\" class=\"wp-image-65519\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colored-machined-parts-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colored-machined-parts-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colored-machined-parts-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colored-machined-parts-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colored-machined-parts-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colored-machined-parts-scaled.jpeg\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22387\" data-caption=\"\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/colored-machined-parts-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cost-drivers\"><strong>Cost Drivers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<p>Understanding the cost drivers for CNC machining and 3D printing can help you optimize your design and choose the most cost-effective process. From part geometry to required surface finishes, certain features significantly impact the production costs for each method.<\/p>\n\n\n    <aside class=\"article-content-aside\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-cost\/\" class=\"aside-image sidebar__aside-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/CNC-Machining-Services-1.webp\" alt=\"CNC Machining process\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-cost\/\" class=\"aside-link\">The Cost of CNC Machining<\/a>    <\/aside>\r\n    \n\n<div class=\"custom-table-block \" id=\"table-id-854\" >\r\n\t<div class=\"search-input-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<svg width=\"16\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 16 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\r\n\t\t\t<path d=\"M15.7812 13.833L12.6659 10.7177C12.5252 10.5771 12.3346 10.499 12.1347 10.499H11.6253C12.4877 9.39596 13.0002 8.00859 13.0002 6.49937C13.0002 2.90909 10.0911 0 6.50083 0C2.91056 0 0.00146484 2.90909 0.00146484 6.49937C0.00146484 10.0896 2.91056 12.9987 6.50083 12.9987C8.01006 12.9987 9.39742 12.4863 10.5004 11.6239V12.1332C10.5004 12.3332 10.5786 12.5238 10.7192 12.6644L13.8345 15.7797C14.1282 16.0734 14.6032 16.0734 14.8938 15.7797L15.778 14.8954C16.0718 14.6017 16.0718 14.1267 15.7812 13.833ZM6.50083 10.499C4.29167 10.499 2.50122 8.71165 2.50122 6.49937C2.50122 4.29021 4.28855 2.49976 6.50083 2.49976C8.70999 2.49976 10.5004 4.28708 10.5004 6.49937C10.5004 8.70852 8.71311 10.499 6.50083 10.499Z\" fill=\"#476175\"\/>\r\n\t\t<\/svg>\r\n\t\t<input type=\"search\" class=\"table-search-input\" id=\"table-search-854\" placeholder=\"Table search\">\r\n\t<\/div>\t\r\n\t<div class=\"table-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; height: 296px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><b>Description<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><b>CNC Machining (\u20ac)<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><b>3D Printing (\u20ac)<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 50px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Large, bulky geometries<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65568\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65556\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 50px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coring and lightweighting features<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65556\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65568\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 50px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Off-angle holes<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65556\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65568\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 50px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Organic features<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65556\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 50px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65568\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Precision and tight tolerances<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65568\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65556\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smooth surface finish<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65568\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65556\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Deep holes and channels<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-65556\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/red-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.2474%; height: 24px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-65568 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"30\" height=\"30\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1.png 184w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-84x84.png 84w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/green-arrow-1-102x102.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 30px) 100vw, 30px\" \/><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\t<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<style>\r\n\t.custom-table-block table{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper{\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 24px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper svg{\r\n\t\tposition: absolute;\r\n\t\ttop:50%;\r\n\t\tleft:12px;\r\n\t\ttransform: translateY(-50%);\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input{\r\n\t\tpadding: 0 0 0 40px;\r\n\t\tborder:1px solid #C1CAD1;\r\n\t\theight: 44px;\r\n\t\twidth: 201px;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input::placeholder{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\twhite-space:nowrap;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead{\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 14px;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody tr:nth-child(odd){\r\n\t\tbackground-color: #F6F9FF;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody, .custom-table-block thead, .custom-table-block tr, .custom-table-block td, .custom-table-block th{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tpadding: 7px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 700;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th:after{\r\n\t\tcontent:\"\";\r\n\t\tdisplay: inline-block;\r\n\t\tbackground-image: url(\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg width='12' height='8' viewBox='0 0 12 8' fill='none' xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%3E%3Cpath d='M10.585 0.585938L6 5.17094L1.415 0.585938L0 2.00094L6 8.00094L12 2.00094L10.585 0.585938Z' fill='%23476175'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E%0A\");\r\n\t\tmargin-left: 8px;\r\n\t\tbackground-position: center center;\r\n\t\tbackground-size: 12px 7.5px;\r\n\t\tbackground-repeat: no-repeat;\r\n\t\twidth: 24px;\r\n\t\theight: 12px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block{\r\n\t\tmargin: 20px 0;\t\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\twidth: 100%;\r\n\t\toverflow-x: auto;\r\n\t}\r\n\t@media(max-width: 768px){\r\n\t\t\/* .custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\t\twhite-space: nowrap;\r\n\t\t} *\/\r\n\t\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\t\tmax-width: calc(100vw - 16px);\r\n\t\t}\r\n\t}\r\n<\/style>\r\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-geometric-complexity-considerations-nbsp\"><strong>Geometric Complexity Considerations <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<p>Manufacturing feasibility is heavily influenced by part geometry:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Powder bed fusion processes (SLS, MJF) excel at producing complex freeform geometries without support structures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>FDM and SLA require sacrificial supports for overhangs &gt;45\u00b0.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>CNC machining is constrained by:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tool accessibility requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minimum internal radius limitations based on cutting tool diameter.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inability to produce enclosed internal features.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Limited undercut capabilities<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If the part&#8217;s design includes features such as intricate internal structures, undercuts, or organic shapes that are not feasible with traditional subtractive manufacturing, additive technologies should be employed.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"material-properties-and-process-compatibility-matrix\"><strong>Material Properties and Process Compatibility Matrix<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>When designing parts that might involve both CNC machining and 3D printing, choosing the right engineering polymer is the first step. Ensuring material compatibility between the two processes is essential to achieving the desired performance and quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some materials, like ABS, PA (Nylon), and PC, are versatile enough for both CNC machining and 3D printing. However, 3D printing also opens up options for specialized materials, such as flexible thermoplastics (TPU, TPE), photopolymer resins, advanced composites, and CLIP resins (Carbon DLS), which aren\u2019t available for CNC machining.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When selecting the ideal material for your project, consider these key factors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mechanical requirements:<\/strong> Does the part need to withstand high loads, impact, or wear?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Environmental exposure:<\/strong> Will the part face extreme temperatures, chemicals, or UV exposure?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Process compatibility:<\/strong> Is the material suitable for the chosen manufacturing method(s)?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Budget:<\/strong> How does the material cost align with your project goals?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The table below highlights common materials, their properties, and the processes they work best with, helping you make an informed decision.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"custom-table-block table-with-white-space\" id=\"table-id-764\" >\r\n\t<div class=\"search-input-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<svg width=\"16\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 16 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\r\n\t\t\t<path d=\"M15.7812 13.833L12.6659 10.7177C12.5252 10.5771 12.3346 10.499 12.1347 10.499H11.6253C12.4877 9.39596 13.0002 8.00859 13.0002 6.49937C13.0002 2.90909 10.0911 0 6.50083 0C2.91056 0 0.00146484 2.90909 0.00146484 6.49937C0.00146484 10.0896 2.91056 12.9987 6.50083 12.9987C8.01006 12.9987 9.39742 12.4863 10.5004 11.6239V12.1332C10.5004 12.3332 10.5786 12.5238 10.7192 12.6644L13.8345 15.7797C14.1282 16.0734 14.6032 16.0734 14.8938 15.7797L15.778 14.8954C16.0718 14.6017 16.0718 14.1267 15.7812 13.833ZM6.50083 10.499C4.29167 10.499 2.50122 8.71165 2.50122 6.49937C2.50122 4.29021 4.28855 2.49976 6.50083 2.49976C8.70999 2.49976 10.5004 4.28708 10.5004 6.49937C10.5004 8.70852 8.71311 10.499 6.50083 10.499Z\" fill=\"#476175\"\/>\r\n\t\t<\/svg>\r\n\t\t<input type=\"search\" class=\"table-search-input\" id=\"table-search-764\" placeholder=\"Table search\">\r\n\t<\/div>\t\r\n\t<div class=\"table-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>Material<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>Properties<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>CNC Machining Suitability<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>3D Printing Suitability<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>Compatibility\/Use Cases for Multi-Technique Parts<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Good impact resistance, toughness, and moderate strength; easy to machine.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Ideal for durable parts with complex shapes<br \/>\n\u2022 Good dimensional stability<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Popular for FDM 3D printing<br \/>\n\u2022 Moderate detail and finish quality<br \/>\n\u2022 Post-processing needed<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Great for enclosures or parts that need both machined precision and 3D-printed complexity.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>Nylon (Polyamide, PA)<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High strength, toughness, and wear resistance; self-lubricating properties.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Excellent for gears, bushings, and structural components<br \/>\n\u2022 Easily machined<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Suitable for SLS, MJF and FDM printing<br \/>\n\u2022 Good flexibility and strength, moisture-sensitive<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Useful for gears, brackets, and structural parts, where both techniques can complement each other.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>Polycarbonate (PC)<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High impact resistance, optical clarity, and heat resistance; prone to stress cracking.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Works well for impact-resistant and heat-tolerant applications<br \/>\n\u2022 Requires careful machining<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 3D printing yields strong parts<br \/>\n\u2022 FDM requires an enclosed chamber for heat control<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Suitable for protective covers, impact-resistant parts, or assemblies combining printed and machined pieces.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>POM (Polyoxymethylene, Acetal\/Delrin)<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High stiffness, low friction, and excellent dimensional stability; resistant to wear.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Ideal for precision parts like gears, cams, and bearings<br \/>\n\u2022 Smooth surface finish<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Not commonly used in 3D printing but can be printed using special setups (e.g., POM filaments)<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best suited for assemblies that need tight tolerances in machined components and lightweight 3D-printed parts<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exceptional mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and high-temperature tolerance.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Preferred for aerospace, medical, and high-performance components<br \/>\n\u2022 Costly but precise<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Available in specialty 3D printers (FDM or SLS)<br \/>\n\u2022 Very strong but limited design flexibility<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ideal for highly demanding environments, combining precision machining and complex 3D-printed features.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Good chemical resistance, strength, and ease of printing; more ductile than ABS.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Suitable for clear parts and applications needing good mechanical properties<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Common for FDM printing<br \/>\n\u2022 Offers a balance of strength, flexibility, and ease of use<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Well-suited for structural parts or enclosures that may need a mix of machined precision and flexible printing.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><b>Polypropylene (PP)<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High fatigue resistance, chemical resistance, and flexibility; low density.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Good for living hinges, chemical containers, and flexible parts<br \/>\n\u2022 Tricky to machine<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\">\u2022 Hard to print but possible with proper bed adhesion techniques<br \/>\n\u2022 Flexible and durable<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 19.9742%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Useful for creating chemical-resistant parts or containers that may combine printed features with machined components.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\t<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<style>\r\n\t.custom-table-block table{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper{\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 24px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper svg{\r\n\t\tposition: absolute;\r\n\t\ttop:50%;\r\n\t\tleft:12px;\r\n\t\ttransform: translateY(-50%);\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input{\r\n\t\tpadding: 0 0 0 40px;\r\n\t\tborder:1px solid #C1CAD1;\r\n\t\theight: 44px;\r\n\t\twidth: 201px;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input::placeholder{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\twhite-space:nowrap;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead{\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 14px;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody tr:nth-child(odd){\r\n\t\tbackground-color: #F6F9FF;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody, .custom-table-block thead, .custom-table-block tr, .custom-table-block td, .custom-table-block th{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tpadding: 7px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 700;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th:after{\r\n\t\tcontent:\"\";\r\n\t\tdisplay: inline-block;\r\n\t\tbackground-image: url(\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg width='12' height='8' viewBox='0 0 12 8' fill='none' xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%3E%3Cpath d='M10.585 0.585938L6 5.17094L1.415 0.585938L0 2.00094L6 8.00094L12 2.00094L10.585 0.585938Z' fill='%23476175'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E%0A\");\r\n\t\tmargin-left: 8px;\r\n\t\tbackground-position: center center;\r\n\t\tbackground-size: 12px 7.5px;\r\n\t\tbackground-repeat: no-repeat;\r\n\t\twidth: 24px;\r\n\t\theight: 12px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block{\r\n\t\tmargin: 20px 0;\t\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\twidth: 100%;\r\n\t\toverflow-x: auto;\r\n\t}\r\n\t@media(max-width: 768px){\r\n\t\t\/* .custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\t\twhite-space: nowrap;\r\n\t\t} *\/\r\n\t\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\t\tmax-width: calc(100vw - 16px);\r\n\t\t}\r\n\t}\r\n<\/style>\r\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"574\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printed-gears-1024x574.jpeg\" alt=\"3D printed gears in various materials\" class=\"wp-image-65580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printed-gears-1024x574.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printed-gears-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printed-gears-768x430.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printed-gears-1536x861.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printed-gears-2048x1148.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printed-gears-scaled.jpeg\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22387\" data-caption=\"3D printed gears in various materials\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printed-gears-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">3D printed gears in various materials<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mechanical-property-comparison-cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\"><strong>Mechanical Property Comparison: CNC Machining vs 3D Printing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s compare the key differences in the mechanical properties of materials like ABS, PC, and PA12 when CNC machined or 3D printed.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-abs-acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene\"><strong>ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"custom-table-block table-with-white-space\" id=\"table-id-117\" >\r\n\t<div class=\"search-input-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<svg width=\"16\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 16 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\r\n\t\t\t<path d=\"M15.7812 13.833L12.6659 10.7177C12.5252 10.5771 12.3346 10.499 12.1347 10.499H11.6253C12.4877 9.39596 13.0002 8.00859 13.0002 6.49937C13.0002 2.90909 10.0911 0 6.50083 0C2.91056 0 0.00146484 2.90909 0.00146484 6.49937C0.00146484 10.0896 2.91056 12.9987 6.50083 12.9987C8.01006 12.9987 9.39742 12.4863 10.5004 11.6239V12.1332C10.5004 12.3332 10.5786 12.5238 10.7192 12.6644L13.8345 15.7797C14.1282 16.0734 14.6032 16.0734 14.8938 15.7797L15.778 14.8954C16.0718 14.6017 16.0718 14.1267 15.7812 13.833ZM6.50083 10.499C4.29167 10.499 2.50122 8.71165 2.50122 6.49937C2.50122 4.29021 4.28855 2.49976 6.50083 2.49976C8.70999 2.49976 10.5004 4.28708 10.5004 6.49937C10.5004 8.70852 8.71311 10.499 6.50083 10.499Z\" fill=\"#476175\"\/>\r\n\t\t<\/svg>\r\n\t\t<input type=\"search\" class=\"table-search-input\" id=\"table-search-117\" placeholder=\"Table search\">\r\n\t<\/div>\t\r\n\t<div class=\"table-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; height: 120px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 37.7841%;\"><b>Property<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 30.1136%;\"><b>CNC Machined<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 31.8182%;\"><b>3D Printed (FDM)<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 37.7841%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tensile Strength<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 30.1136%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">40-45 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 31.8182%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">30-35 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 37.7841%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Impact Strength (Izod)<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 30.1136%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">200-220 J\/m<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 31.8182%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">95-130 J\/m<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 37.7841%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Elastic Modulus<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 30.1136%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2.3-2.4 GPa<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 31.8182%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1.8-2.0 GPa<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 37.7841%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Compression Strength<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 30.1136%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">46-48 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 31.8182%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">35-40 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\t<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<style>\r\n\t.custom-table-block table{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper{\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 24px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper svg{\r\n\t\tposition: absolute;\r\n\t\ttop:50%;\r\n\t\tleft:12px;\r\n\t\ttransform: translateY(-50%);\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input{\r\n\t\tpadding: 0 0 0 40px;\r\n\t\tborder:1px solid #C1CAD1;\r\n\t\theight: 44px;\r\n\t\twidth: 201px;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input::placeholder{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\twhite-space:nowrap;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead{\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 14px;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody tr:nth-child(odd){\r\n\t\tbackground-color: #F6F9FF;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody, .custom-table-block thead, .custom-table-block tr, .custom-table-block td, .custom-table-block th{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tpadding: 7px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 700;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th:after{\r\n\t\tcontent:\"\";\r\n\t\tdisplay: inline-block;\r\n\t\tbackground-image: url(\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg width='12' height='8' viewBox='0 0 12 8' fill='none' xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%3E%3Cpath d='M10.585 0.585938L6 5.17094L1.415 0.585938L0 2.00094L6 8.00094L12 2.00094L10.585 0.585938Z' fill='%23476175'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E%0A\");\r\n\t\tmargin-left: 8px;\r\n\t\tbackground-position: center center;\r\n\t\tbackground-size: 12px 7.5px;\r\n\t\tbackground-repeat: no-repeat;\r\n\t\twidth: 24px;\r\n\t\theight: 12px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block{\r\n\t\tmargin: 20px 0;\t\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\twidth: 100%;\r\n\t\toverflow-x: auto;\r\n\t}\r\n\t@media(max-width: 768px){\r\n\t\t\/* .custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\t\twhite-space: nowrap;\r\n\t\t} *\/\r\n\t\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\t\tmax-width: calc(100vw - 16px);\r\n\t\t}\r\n\t}\r\n<\/style>\r\n\n\n\n<p>Key factors affecting properties for 3D printing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>FDM layer adhesion strength.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Print orientation (Z-axis typically weakest).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Environmental conditions during printing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Infill percentage (100% used for comparison).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pc-polycarbonate\"><strong>PC (Polycarbonate)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"custom-table-block table-with-white-space\" id=\"table-id-324\" >\r\n\t<div class=\"search-input-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<svg width=\"16\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 16 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\r\n\t\t\t<path d=\"M15.7812 13.833L12.6659 10.7177C12.5252 10.5771 12.3346 10.499 12.1347 10.499H11.6253C12.4877 9.39596 13.0002 8.00859 13.0002 6.49937C13.0002 2.90909 10.0911 0 6.50083 0C2.91056 0 0.00146484 2.90909 0.00146484 6.49937C0.00146484 10.0896 2.91056 12.9987 6.50083 12.9987C8.01006 12.9987 9.39742 12.4863 10.5004 11.6239V12.1332C10.5004 12.3332 10.5786 12.5238 10.7192 12.6644L13.8345 15.7797C14.1282 16.0734 14.6032 16.0734 14.8938 15.7797L15.778 14.8954C16.0718 14.6017 16.0718 14.1267 15.7812 13.833ZM6.50083 10.499C4.29167 10.499 2.50122 8.71165 2.50122 6.49937C2.50122 4.29021 4.28855 2.49976 6.50083 2.49976C8.70999 2.49976 10.5004 4.28708 10.5004 6.49937C10.5004 8.70852 8.71311 10.499 6.50083 10.499Z\" fill=\"#476175\"\/>\r\n\t\t<\/svg>\r\n\t\t<input type=\"search\" class=\"table-search-input\" id=\"table-search-324\" placeholder=\"Table search\">\r\n\t<\/div>\t\r\n\t<div class=\"table-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 37.3711%;\"><b>Property<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.2216%;\"><b>CNC Machined<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 34.2784%;\"><b>3D Printed (FDM)<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 37.3711%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tensile Strength<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.2216%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">65-70 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 34.2784%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">55-60 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 37.3711%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Impact Strength (Izod)<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.2216%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">600-850 J\/m<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 34.2784%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">250-400 J\/m<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 37.3711%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Elastic Modulus<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.2216%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2.3-2.4 GPa<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 34.2784%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2.0-2.1 GPa<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 37.3711%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Compression Strength<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.2216%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">75-80 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 34.2784%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">60-65 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\t<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<style>\r\n\t.custom-table-block table{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper{\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 24px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper svg{\r\n\t\tposition: absolute;\r\n\t\ttop:50%;\r\n\t\tleft:12px;\r\n\t\ttransform: translateY(-50%);\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input{\r\n\t\tpadding: 0 0 0 40px;\r\n\t\tborder:1px solid #C1CAD1;\r\n\t\theight: 44px;\r\n\t\twidth: 201px;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input::placeholder{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\twhite-space:nowrap;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead{\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 14px;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody tr:nth-child(odd){\r\n\t\tbackground-color: #F6F9FF;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody, .custom-table-block thead, .custom-table-block tr, .custom-table-block td, .custom-table-block th{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tpadding: 7px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 700;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th:after{\r\n\t\tcontent:\"\";\r\n\t\tdisplay: inline-block;\r\n\t\tbackground-image: url(\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg width='12' height='8' viewBox='0 0 12 8' fill='none' xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%3E%3Cpath d='M10.585 0.585938L6 5.17094L1.415 0.585938L0 2.00094L6 8.00094L12 2.00094L10.585 0.585938Z' fill='%23476175'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E%0A\");\r\n\t\tmargin-left: 8px;\r\n\t\tbackground-position: center center;\r\n\t\tbackground-size: 12px 7.5px;\r\n\t\tbackground-repeat: no-repeat;\r\n\t\twidth: 24px;\r\n\t\theight: 12px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block{\r\n\t\tmargin: 20px 0;\t\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\twidth: 100%;\r\n\t\toverflow-x: auto;\r\n\t}\r\n\t@media(max-width: 768px){\r\n\t\t\/* .custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\t\twhite-space: nowrap;\r\n\t\t} *\/\r\n\t\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\t\tmax-width: calc(100vw - 16px);\r\n\t\t}\r\n\t}\r\n<\/style>\r\n\n\n\n<p>Key factors affecting properties for 3D printing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Higher printing temperature requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moisture sensitivity during processing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chamber temperature control.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cooling rate effects.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pa12-nylon-12\"><strong>PA12 (Nylon 12)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"custom-table-block \" id=\"table-id-64\" >\r\n\t<div class=\"search-input-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<svg width=\"16\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 16 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\r\n\t\t\t<path d=\"M15.7812 13.833L12.6659 10.7177C12.5252 10.5771 12.3346 10.499 12.1347 10.499H11.6253C12.4877 9.39596 13.0002 8.00859 13.0002 6.49937C13.0002 2.90909 10.0911 0 6.50083 0C2.91056 0 0.00146484 2.90909 0.00146484 6.49937C0.00146484 10.0896 2.91056 12.9987 6.50083 12.9987C8.01006 12.9987 9.39742 12.4863 10.5004 11.6239V12.1332C10.5004 12.3332 10.5786 12.5238 10.7192 12.6644L13.8345 15.7797C14.1282 16.0734 14.6032 16.0734 14.8938 15.7797L15.778 14.8954C16.0718 14.6017 16.0718 14.1267 15.7812 13.833ZM6.50083 10.499C4.29167 10.499 2.50122 8.71165 2.50122 6.49937C2.50122 4.29021 4.28855 2.49976 6.50083 2.49976C8.70999 2.49976 10.5004 4.28708 10.5004 6.49937C10.5004 8.70852 8.71311 10.499 6.50083 10.499Z\" fill=\"#476175\"\/>\r\n\t\t<\/svg>\r\n\t\t<input type=\"search\" class=\"table-search-input\" id=\"table-search-64\" placeholder=\"Table search\">\r\n\t<\/div>\t\r\n\t<div class=\"table-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 34.5361%;\"><b>Property<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 26.1598%;\"><b>CNC Machined<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 39.1753%;\"><b>3D Printed (SLS\/MJF)<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 34.5361%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tensile Strength<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 26.1598%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">70-85 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 39.1753%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">48-55 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 34.5361%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Impact Strength (Izod)<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 26.1598%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">150-180 J\/m<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 39.1753%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">110-130 J\/m<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 34.5361%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Elastic Modulus<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 26.1598%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1.7-1.8 GPa<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 39.1753%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1.4-1.5 GPa<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 34.5361%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Compression Strength<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 26.1598%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">65-70 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 39.1753%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">50-55 MPa<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\t<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<style>\r\n\t.custom-table-block table{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper{\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 24px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper svg{\r\n\t\tposition: absolute;\r\n\t\ttop:50%;\r\n\t\tleft:12px;\r\n\t\ttransform: translateY(-50%);\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input{\r\n\t\tpadding: 0 0 0 40px;\r\n\t\tborder:1px solid #C1CAD1;\r\n\t\theight: 44px;\r\n\t\twidth: 201px;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input::placeholder{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\twhite-space:nowrap;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead{\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 14px;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody tr:nth-child(odd){\r\n\t\tbackground-color: #F6F9FF;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody, .custom-table-block thead, .custom-table-block tr, .custom-table-block td, .custom-table-block th{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tpadding: 7px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 700;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th:after{\r\n\t\tcontent:\"\";\r\n\t\tdisplay: inline-block;\r\n\t\tbackground-image: url(\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg width='12' height='8' viewBox='0 0 12 8' fill='none' xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%3E%3Cpath d='M10.585 0.585938L6 5.17094L1.415 0.585938L0 2.00094L6 8.00094L12 2.00094L10.585 0.585938Z' fill='%23476175'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E%0A\");\r\n\t\tmargin-left: 8px;\r\n\t\tbackground-position: center center;\r\n\t\tbackground-size: 12px 7.5px;\r\n\t\tbackground-repeat: no-repeat;\r\n\t\twidth: 24px;\r\n\t\theight: 12px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block{\r\n\t\tmargin: 20px 0;\t\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\twidth: 100%;\r\n\t\toverflow-x: auto;\r\n\t}\r\n\t@media(max-width: 768px){\r\n\t\t\/* .custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\t\twhite-space: nowrap;\r\n\t\t} *\/\r\n\t\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\t\tmax-width: calc(100vw - 16px);\r\n\t\t}\r\n\t}\r\n<\/style>\r\n\n\n\n<p>Key factors affecting properties for 3D printing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Powder recyclability effects.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sintering parameters.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Part density achievements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Post-processing methods.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"when-to-choose-injection-molding-over-cnc-machining-or-3d-printing\"><strong>When to Choose Injection Molding Over CNC Machining or 3D Printing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>While CNC machining and 3D printing each have their strengths, there are scenarios where neither method fully satisfies the requirements for cost-effectiveness, high-volume production, or exceptional uniformity. In such cases, injection molding (IM) becomes a powerful alternative. This process is particularly well-suited for large-scale production runs, intricate designs, and applications that demand high precision and consistency.<\/p>\n\n\n    <aside class=\"article-content-aside\">\r\n        <div class=\"aside-text\"><p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/guides\/ebook-cnc-machining-injection-molding-electronics\/\" class=\"aside-image sidebar__aside-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ebooks-icon-1.svg\" alt=\"\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/guides\/ebook-cnc-machining-injection-molding-electronics\/\" class=\"aside-link\">eBook: CNC Machining and Injection Molding\u2028for the Electronics Industry<\/a>    <\/aside>\r\n    \n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a breakdown of when injection molding is the better choice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>You\u2019re looking for cost efficiency in large-scale production<\/strong>: Injection molding excels in high-volume production because its upfront tooling costs are offset by extremely low per-part costs during large runs (e.g. mass production of consumer goodsl like plastic containers). While CNC machining and 3D printing can handle low- to medium-volume production, they become cost-prohibitive at this scale.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>You need consistent quality and flawless surface finishes<\/strong>: If your parts require strict dimensional tolerances or impeccable surface finishes, injection molding delivers unmatched uniformity across all units. This is particularly important in industries like medical devices, electronics, and precision engineering, where consistent quality is critical.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Your design includes thin walls or complex features<\/strong>: CNC machining struggles with thin walls, while 3D printing can produce them but may lack precision. Injection molding, on the other hand, can easily replicate intricate features like thin walls, living hinges, and undercuts, thanks to its ability to use highly precise molds (e.g. packaging components with snap-fit features).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>You need a wide variety of materials with specific properties<\/strong>: Injection molding supports a vast array of materials, including advanced engineering polymers and custom formulations. This makes it ideal for projects that require specific chemical, thermal, or mechanical properties, such as high UV resistance or chemical durability.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"574\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printers-producing-prototypes-1024x574.jpeg\" alt=\"Rows of 3D printers producing prototypes\" class=\"wp-image-65594\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printers-producing-prototypes-1024x574.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printers-producing-prototypes-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printers-producing-prototypes-768x430.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printers-producing-prototypes-1536x861.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printers-producing-prototypes-2048x1148.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printers-producing-prototypes-scaled.jpeg\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22387\" data-caption=\"Rows of 3D printers producing prototypes\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3d-printers-producing-prototypes-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Rows of 3D printers producing prototypes<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"final-decision-guidelines-for-cnc-machining-and-3d-printing-of-polymers\"><strong>Final Decision Guidelines for CNC Machining and 3D Printing of Polymers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"choose-cnc-machining-when\"><strong>Choose CNC Machining When<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Precision and durability are key:<\/strong> CNC machining excels in delivering high dimensional accuracy and robust parts, ideal for applications requiring long-term durability and precision, such as aerospace and medical components.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>High production volume is expected:<\/strong> For large batch production, CNC machining becomes more economical over time, as the setup costs are distributed across a larger number of parts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Premium surface finish is required: <\/strong>CNC machining can achieve excellent surface finishes with minimal post-processing, making it suitable for components where aesthetics or precise fitting are crucial.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"choose-3d-printing-when\"><strong>Choose 3D Printing When<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Rapid prototyping and design flexibility are needed:<\/strong> 3D printing is ideal for quickly iterating on complex, custom designs, as the technology allows for intricate geometries and internal structures that are challenging or impossible to machine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Environmental impact and material efficiency matter:<\/strong> The additive nature of 3D printing minimizes material waste, making it an excellent choice when sustainability is a priority.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Low Volumes and Budget Constraints Apply:<\/strong> For small production runs, 3D printing is typically more cost-effective due to lower setup costs and faster initial production, suitable for prototypes or limited custom parts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In cases where both high precision and complex geometries are required, combining <a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.com.tr\/en\/cnc-machining\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CNC machining<\/a> for critical tolerance areas with <a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.com.tr\/en\/3d-printing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3D printing<\/a> for intricate, lower-stress sections could be a powerful approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":65486,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","categories":[],"c-tag-articles":[],"global-tag":[729,495],"class_list":["post-22387","articles","type-articles","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","global-tag-cnc-machining-tr","global-tag-3d-printing-tr"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.7 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Polymer CNC Machining vs. 3D Printing | Xometry Pro<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"This article discusses the main differences between machining and printing polymers and suggests a checklist to choose the right option.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Polymer CNC Machining vs. 3D Printing | Xometry Pro\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"This article discusses the main differences between machining and printing polymers and suggests a checklist to choose the right option.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Xometry Pro\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-1024x683.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"683\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/articles\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/articles\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\\\/\",\"name\":\"Polymer CNC Machining vs. 3D Printing | Xometry Pro\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/articles\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/articles\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/12\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing.png\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-12-06T09:39:01+00:00\",\"description\":\"This article discusses the main differences between machining and printing polymers and suggests a checklist to choose the right option.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/articles\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-TR\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/articles\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-TR\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/articles\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/12\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/12\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing.png\",\"width\":4096,\"height\":2731,\"caption\":\"Comparison of plastic CNC machining and 3D printing processes\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/articles\\\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Articles\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/articles\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"3D Printing\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/global-tag\\\/3d-printing-tr\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":4,\"name\":\"CNC Machining vs 3D Printing: Select the Best Plastic Manufacturing Method for Your Project\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/\",\"name\":\"Xometry Pro\",\"description\":\"Knowledge &amp; Community For Engineers &amp; Product Designers\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en-tr\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-TR\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Polymer CNC Machining vs. 3D Printing | Xometry Pro","description":"This article discusses the main differences between machining and printing polymers and suggests a checklist to choose the right option.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Polymer CNC Machining vs. 3D Printing | Xometry Pro","og_description":"This article discusses the main differences between machining and printing polymers and suggests a checklist to choose the right option.","og_url":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/","og_site_name":"Xometry Pro","og_image":[{"width":1024,"height":683,"url":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing-1024x683.png","type":"image\/png"}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Est. reading time":"6 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/","url":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/","name":"Polymer CNC Machining vs. 3D Printing | Xometry Pro","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing.png","datePublished":"2024-12-06T09:39:01+00:00","description":"This article discusses the main differences between machining and printing polymers and suggests a checklist to choose the right option.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-TR","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-TR","@id":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing.png","width":4096,"height":2731,"caption":"Comparison of plastic CNC machining and 3D printing processes"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/cnc-machining-vs-3d-printing\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Articles","item":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/articles\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"3D Printing","item":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/global-tag\/3d-printing-tr\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"CNC Machining vs 3D Printing: Select the Best Plastic Manufacturing Method for Your Project"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/#website","url":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/","name":"Xometry Pro","description":"Knowledge &amp; Community For Engineers &amp; Product Designers","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-TR"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/articles\/22387","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/articles"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/articles"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/50"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22387"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/articles\/22387\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":65627,"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/articles\/22387\/revisions\/65627"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/65486"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22387"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22387"},{"taxonomy":"c-tag-articles","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/c-tag-articles?post=22387"},{"taxonomy":"global-tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en-tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/global-tag?post=22387"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}