What is 3d Printing?
3D printing technology has evolved significantly from its origins as an affordable method for rapid prototyping. Today, there are larger, more advanced 3D printers capable of handling larger batch sizes of parts and working with materials beyond just polymers. Cutting-edge technologies like industrial Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) are now being harnessed for industrial purposes, including higher-volume production and tooling.
One notable advantage of 3D printing is its ability to create cost-effective molds for injection molding, ultimately reducing the expense associated with mass-producing plastic components. Industries spanning automotive, medical, electrical, and even toys have embraced industrial 3D printing technology as a viable alternative to traditional industrial processes like injection molding. With 3D printing, it becomes possible to accelerate production and lower the overall cost of industrial-scale manufacturing.
In the context of CNC manufacturing, 3D printing can be used as a complementary technology in several ways:
1. Prototyping: 3D printing can be used to create prototypes quickly and cost-effectively before moving on to CNC manufacturing for mass production. This allows for testing and refining designs before committing to the expensive CNC processes.
2. Tooling: 3D printing can be utilized to create custom tooling or molds for CNC manufacturing processes. These 3D-printed tooling inserts or molds can be more complex and intricate than traditional methods, offering greater design flexibility.
3. Complex geometries: Certain shapes or designs may be difficult or even impossible to manufacture using traditional CNC methods. 3D printing can help fabricate such complex geometries that would otherwise be challenging to produce using CNC machining alone.
4. Customization: 3D printing enables customization and personalization on a level often unachievable with CNC manufacturing. By combining both technologies, customized parts or products can be created with CNC precision while incorporating unique features or variations.
CNC vs. 3D Printing: What's the Best Way to Make Your Part?
- Ideal for: Parts requiring high precision, tight tolerances, and superior surface finishes. CNC machining is suitable for a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and composites.
- Advantages: CNC manufacturing can handle a variety of materials, including metals, and is well-suited for producing functional parts and components. It offers excellent accuracy and repeatability.
- Limitations: CNC machining may have some limitations for highly complex geometries, as it involves the removal of material, making intricate internal structures or overhangs more challenging to achieve. CNC Manufacturing is more suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises
- Ideal for: Prototyping, customized parts, complex geometric designs, and quick iteration. Different technologies can handle various materials, including plastics, metals, ceramics, and composites.
- Advantages: 3D printing excels at producing intricate and complex designs, including internal structures and overhangs. It allows for rapid prototyping and is suitable for lower volume or customized production.
- Limitations: 3D printing surface finish and dimensional accuracy may be inferior compared to CNC machining. High-speed production and large-scale manufacturing may also be limited by the relatively slower speed of 3D printing processes.
3d Printing Capabilities of Maijin Metal
3D printing is rich in materials and can be made of plastic, metal, ceramic, or glass powders with good performance. Maijin Metal machines can produce parts in Aluminum ALSi10Mg, Titanium alloy TC4, Stainless steel 316L, Nylon, ABS, PC, Photopolymer.
3d Printing Process |
Material Jetting, Material extrusion, Light polymerized, Powder Bed, Laminated, Powder fed, Wire |
Industry Standard | DIN, GB, JIS, ASNI, ASME, ASTM, SAE, ISO, Mil-Spec, RoHs |
In accordance with relevant industry standards and customer company standards |
3d Printing Tolerances | |
Feature | Description |
Maximum Part Size | Maijin Metal can accommodate 3D printing up to 24" x 36" x 36" without the need to split and bond parts |
Minimum Feature Size | 0.030" - 0.060" is typical. |
Minimum Wall Thickness | 0.020" - 0.060" is typical. |
Clearance Between Features | At least 0.030" |
Metal 3d Printing Materials |
Aluminum ALSi10Mg, Titanium alloy TC4, Stainless steel 316L, Nylon, ABS, PC, Photopolymer |
Why choose Maijin Metal?
Maijin Metal boasts over 5 years of extensive experience in 3d Printing and manufacturing services in global. Our dedicated team of experts is equipped with a diverse array of 3D print machines, ensuring exceptional precision, remarkable flexibility, and consistent quality output for a wide range of machining projects.
At Maijin Metal, we understand the importance of every project, regardless of its size. Our professionals are deeply committed to delivering top-notch service that surpasses your expectations. We approach each task with a level of care and attention as if it were our own, guaranteeing the highest standards of craftsmanship.
In addition to our core services, we offer prototype 3d Printing solutions. These services enable you to gain a crystal-clear understanding of the final product, facilitating informed decision-making and ensuring your project's success.
Choose Maijin Metal for your 3d Printing needs, and experience the excellence and dedication that have defined us for over 5 years in the industry.