Additive vs. Subtractive Manufacturing: What You Should Know

Additive vs. Subtractive Manufacturing: What You Should Know

In the last several years, subtractive and additive manufacturing has had a significant impact on the worldwide economy. A wide range of industries is now able to make use of the innovative creation of various components as a result of technological innovation.

Even though additive and subtractive manufacturing application techniques vary, they both depend on one another due to their underlying application modalities. However, additional factors like the volume of production and the phase of product development affect the technique utilized to make a prototype or component. On that note, let's take a deeper look into additive and subtractive manufacturing.

Additive Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing, also referred to as 3D printing, is a computer-controlled industrial method that creates three-dimensional items by layering components on a base material. The primary focus of this technique is the creation of new objects through the combination of various materials. Additive manufacturing also makes use of a variety of different materials based on the printing method used.

In addition, the use of AM technology has grown outside the aviation and medical sectors, where it was initially applied. A few instances of its ever-expanding influence are the automobile, petroleum, gasoline, and heavy machinery industries.

Subtractive Manufacturing

The eradication of object components to produce a new product is known as subtractive manufacturing. Using a mill to hollow down plastic or metal is an excellent illustration of this process. It is also possible to develop, prototype, and manufacture products in end-use materials using this manufacturing method. You can acquire specified mechanical qualities or finishes in both small and large volume products with this method.

Subtractive manufacturing processes also make it easier for engineers to match their designs to the materials they need for durability, elasticity, chemical resistance, and other dielectric qualities.

When Is Each Used?

Additive and subtractive manufacturing aren't mutually conflicting, despite their significant differences. In reality, they are frequently utilized in tandem and at various phases of product manufacturing and development. For example, prototyping frequently uses both subtractive and additive methods.

Plastic additive manufacturing technologies, like stereolithography and selective laser sintering, are often more cost-effective and speedier in developing initial concept prototypes and samples. Many different materials can be used for the practical prototyping of plastic objects when using 3D printing. Small parts and elaborate designs are also better suited to additive technology.

When larger batches are required later in the development process, subtractive techniques become more viable. Larger, simpler products are also more suited for subtractive production. As a result, subtractive manufacturing is frequently used to fabricate completed items because of the wide range of surface finishes available and the quickness of the process.

Which Is Better?

Additive manufacturing is becoming a more viable choice as the world moves toward reducing waste. In addition, the layering technique used in additive manufacturing mimics natural processes. Additive manufacturing produces less waste as compared to subtractive manufacturing. Not only does it create less waste, but it's also speedier and more capable of producing complicated designs.

If you or someone you know wants to learn more about how they can leverage additive manufacturing, get in touch with Falcon Technologies International. We are one of the best companies that offer 3D printing in MENA. Whether you need help with low volume production, functional prototyping, or Polymer 3D Printing, we do it all.

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