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Feb 22, 2022
Part size vs part complexity
If your part is large and simple (in relation to its size) then certainly consider CNC machining but, if your part is small and intricate, then additive manufacture may well be better suited.
There is no concrete hard and fast rule – there are some features that may be challenging to produce with machining but can be realised easily through additive manufacture.
Likewise, there are important design considerations for additively manufactured parts that must be taken into account, such as the placement of support material and tight tolerances that may make the part difficult to produce.
3D Printed parts by their nature will be made in layers and on curved surfaces these can appear as steps. To achieve a good surface finish these will need to be post processed out.
CNC machining, however, works in a minimum of three simultaneous axes with the result being a smooth, accurate surface straight from the machine.
Materials are usually process specific for 3D Printing, whereas the list of options for CNC Machining are huge.
Additive manufacture can produce prototype or low quantity runs very quickly, with little or no tooling. However, this process is less suited to larger quantities due to the time spent on expensive-to-run machinery.
CNC machining allows you to produce finished prototype parts without post processing, which can make this a cost effective option if it suits your finish requirements. Low runs and larger quantities become even more viable due to the set-up time being utilised across the numbers (we have machined up to 100,000 parts).
Parts should be designed with the manufacturing method in mind, although obviously there will be design features which cannot be changed as they perform critical functions.
A good designer will have a method of manufacture in mind as they design a model, so they optimise the part for that particular process. We can help you with this as this preparation is crucial to avoid delays in production. [CNC machining Steel]
A CNC prototype therefore has a lot to offer, especially if the goal is for an excellent surface finish. In addition, CNC machining can be cost competitive, frequently allowing a ‘finished’ part to be delivered for the same price as a ‘raw’ 3D printed part.
We offer both CNC machining and additive manufacturing processes and therefore are completely unbiased and will be totally honest as to the best solution for your part. For further support and advice please pick up the phone and talk to us.
"There's a reason why I encourage my team and others to connect with Plunkett Associates...,Tim Plunkett. I've enjoyed the conversations and advice with you Tim. Your enthusiasm has no bounds. Such passion for the technologies and providing solutions for customers."Alan Bale Mechanical Engineering Technical Manager, Philips Remote Diagnostic Technologies Limited
"Always a pleasure to deal with. Hope the growth continues, Tim."Stephen Cooper Director Plastiserve Limited
Plunkett Associates worked on the design and production of titanium frames for an artificial heart valve where precision and consistency was paramount. Communications were efficient and productive with concepts readily incorporated into the final design, and suggestions for improvements all highly appropriate. The quality of the end product was ideal and I have no doubt that I will use the advice and expertise of Plunkett Associates again.David Wheatley, Wheatley Research Ltd
Plunkett Associates worked on the design and production of titanium frames for an artificial heart valve where precision and consistency was paramount. Communications were efficient and productive with concepts readily incorporated into the final design, and suggestions for improvements all highly appropriate. The quality of the end product was ideal and I have no doubt that I will use the advice and expertise of Plunkett Associates again.
“Doing business with you has been an absolute pleasure. You have made my goals a reality. You have been patient, helpful and above all, responsive. Best service that I have experienced in ages. I consider Plunkett Associates to be an integral part of my business plan moving forward.”
Thanks for the present that arrived this morning, as promised. Parts look first class, as always.
Plunketts developed a solution that met our precision requirements at a cost significantly lower than alternative manufacturing approaches we had investigated
Interestingly, people who look at it in its own right with little knowledge of what it does, just like it! It’s tactile and it looks good…
To create such a consistent quality finish in chrome was an amazing achievement and the prototypes really gave our stand the wow factor.
I can’t recommend Tim and his team highly enough. We ended up with a design which can be produced and assembled quickly, efficiently and reliably, in volumes that make sense
Kirintec were thrilled with Plunketts. They made a complex process simple and we were just amazed at the lead times achieved. Plus, every single deadline was met without any drama.
Plunkett Associates truly offer a complete turnkey solution with Speed, Effectiveness and Precision.
Plunkett Associates have a fantastic supply chain, work with all sorts of production processes and will always do their utmost to solve a problem.
We always know exactly what we’re getting and we know we won’t be let down on quality, price or lead times.
"With their simple to understand language, willingness to go the extra mile and approachability, Plunkett Associates were a great partner for our company. We couldn’t be happier with the results of our project. (A working prototype that they got right first time, by the way). Thank you!"
“We use Plunkett Associates because we want someone we can trust, that knows what they’re talking about, has all the contacts, will provide reliable advice and feedback and will get the right result for us.”
“Accuracy, finish and delivery all first class.”
"Tim's experience, expertise and supplier base have been fundamental to us getting this project off the ground."
Plunkett associates always find a solution. Whatever we need to prototype, they have a great grasp on the technologies available, costs and lead-times so we get the right solution tailored to the project needs. Have always delivered and never let us down.
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