Even though many now think 3D printing to be the prevailing form of rapid prototyping, CNC machining is also an essential procedure for creating prototype parts. To know why, it is advantageous to think about the various forms a prototype can take, and consider why these prototypes exist. CNC machining can be an outstanding choice for prototyping, but its suitability depends on the prototype’s nature.

Advantages of CNC machining prototype

Several reasons are there why a company might use CNC machining to produce a prototype, including speed of production, material options, part quality, and similarity to the last part.

As CNC machining is a digital procedure that makes a part from a PC file, engineers understand that a machined prototype will strictly match the digital 3D design. The similar digital design can afterward be utilized to make a concluding part with matching dimensions. The amount of repeatability is mainly high. In case a machined prototype displays a physical flaw due to awful design, the engineer can go back to the CAD software to create appropriate changes for the subsequent prototype.

In case a prototype lacks a mechanical point, it may be appropriate for 3D printing, which even though not known for making high-strength parts — costs very less and can be performed in a limited space of time. In regards to 3D printing processes, the material options are narrower than they are for machining.

CNC machining offers a vast range of compatible materials, and offers some extremely strong and hard-wearing ones, including a wide range of metals. It is promising to 3D print with metals as well, but not with a discounted FDM printer.

While several prototyping processes depend on human skills, CNC prototype machines follow their teachings within a fraction of a millimeter. Even though a business may only be making a single prototype, a CNC machine can run the same job a second time with negligible divergence from the first. This is extremely helpful for developing new iterations of a prototype, and moving to production with the similar machinery.

Thus, it can be said that CNC machining can be an excellent prototyping process.