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Testing and functionality for CNC machining, 3D printing and hybrid prototyping

Prototyping or model making is an important process in product design and manufacturing. A prototype is the basic version of any device or part, the basis for mass production, and it helps users understand how the device will work in a real environment. Today, prototypes are made using a variety of techniques, such as CNC machining, 3D printing, and hybrid modeling. Since these processes are very similar in many ways, choosing the right technology will be difficult. However, it can be effectively selected through testing and functionality of CNC machining, 3D printing and hybrid processes. This article will guide you through the pros and cons of 3D printing and hybrid process technologies and help you choose the right technology.

Introduction to cnc machining prototyping technology

Three main techniques are often used in the prototyping process, such as CNC machining, 3D printing, and hybrid modeling. To choose the right one from these three technologies, you need to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each technology. Let us discuss these three techniques in detail.

1. CNC machining for prototyping:

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines are used to convert computer-generated data into solid objects, which basically interpret the details of CAD modeling and translate it into manufacturing. It is a subtractive process that removes material from the workpiece during machining. Thanks to the subtractive mechanism, this technique can produce the finest features.

The greatest advantage of CNC prototyping is the delicate and frequent modification of material removal during the material removal process. This makes the method accurate and highly compatible with CAD models. It provides higher functional accuracy to the final prototype, as the functionality of the prototype has been tested with the CAD model. So, from CAD models to CNC machined prototypes, we end up with models that look and work similarly.

CNC prototyping is ideal for operational testing and functionality of CNC prototypes.

2. 3D printing for prototyping:

3D printing is an additive manufacturing process. Prototypes are created by adding thin layers of material based on sections of the CAD model. This technology is fast and requires skilled but minimal labor. Additionally, once setup is complete and the 3D printing manufacturing process begins, operators can leave the setup for a few hours, reducing labor and time costs. It also provides fabrication of small to large prototypes, which makes it beneficial for complex and scalable part fabrication. This technique is often used to test whether the part design needs any modifications. It allows multiple products to be manufactured at once, thus ultimately reducing operating costs.

The availability of 3D printing materials limits the use of 3D printing in prototype production.

3. Hybrid modeling for prototyping:

Hybrid modeling or hybrid prototyping is an alternative technique for making and testing prototype functionality. This technique is suitable for both hardware and software prototypes. It allows the actual interconnection of software with functional hardware to test functional compatibility. It allows easy and fast debugging of software products, while defect detection in hardware prototypes is also convenient. It provides a virtual visualization window to test functions. Best of all, in this technique, a fully revised prototype model can be produced from just one sheet of material.

Although discussed, the choice also depends on the prototype and operational requirements of your part. Therefore, if you are looking for advice on choosing a prototyping technique and getting it done professionally, you should look for an experienced and trustworthy manufacturer. Xiehe is a CNC machine shop that provides professional prototyping services and has been actively serving the industry for many years. Our customers are very broad as they serve aerospace, semiconductor, military, marine, construction and many more industries.