Manufacturing technologies are evolving rapidly. Companies now need flexible solutions that can move seamlessly from prototyping to production. While additive manufacturing has transformed how engineers design and develop products, many applications also require the precision, material properties, and surface finishes that traditional manufacturing methods provide.
To better support engineers, designers, and manufacturers, Shapeways now offers CNC machining, expanding its digital manufacturing ecosystem. This allows customers to choose the best method for each application and produce high-quality parts.
This addition gives product teams greater flexibility, allowing them to choose the right technology for each stage of development and production.
What Is CNC Machining?
CNC Machining or Computer Numerical Control machining, is a manufacturing process that uses computer-controlled machines to precisely remove material from a solid block. Starting from a digital CAD model, CNC machines cut, mill, or turn materials such as metal and plastic into finished parts with extremely tight tolerances.
Unlike additive manufacturing, which builds parts layer by layer, CNC machining is a subtractive process. CNC machines gradually remove material using cutting tools until the final geometry is achieved.
Why it Matters for Additive Manufacturing Companies
Additive manufacturing has unlocked new possibilities for complex geometries, lightweight structures, and rapid prototyping. However, certain applications still require the capabilities of traditional manufacturing processes.
By offering CNC machining, additive manufacturing companies like Shapeways can provide a more complete manufacturing solution.
CNC machining complements additive manufacturing in several important ways:
Precision and Tight Tolerances: Some components require extremely precise dimensions and tight tolerances that CNC machining is particularly well suited to achieve. Machined parts can reach tolerances measured in microns, making them ideal for mechanical assemblies, precision housings, and high-performance components.
Material Performance: Many applications require the mechanical strength, thermal resistance, or conductivity of solid metal parts. CNC machining allows engineers to produce components from materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, and engineering plastics.
Surface Finish: CNC machining produces smooth, high-quality surfaces that may be required for mechanical interfaces, sealing surfaces, or visible product components.
Hybrid Manufacturing: In many cases, additive manufacturing and CNC machining work best together. A component might be 3D printed for complex geometry and then machined to refine critical surfaces or features. This hybrid approach allows engineers to combine the strengths of both technologies.
From Prototype to Production
One of the biggest advantages of integrating CNC machining into a digital manufacturing platform is the ability to support the entire product development lifecycle.
Engineers can move seamlessly between different manufacturing technologies depending on their design needs. For example:
- Early design concepts can be tested with additive manufacturing
- Engineers can produce functional prototypes with CNC machining
- Teams can manufacture production parts using the most cost-effective method
This flexibility helps teams iterate faster. It also maintains high quality and performance standards. By combining multiple manufacturing technologies in a single platform, companies can simplify sourcing, reduce lead times, and accelerate product development.
Expanding Digital Manufacturing with Shapeways
Shapeways continues to expand its advanced manufacturing capabilities to better serve engineers and product teams worldwide. Customers now have access to both additive and subtractive manufacturing solutions through a single platform.
Whether you’re developing complex 3D printed geometries, producing high-precision machined parts, or combining both technologies in a hybrid workflow, Shapeways provides the tools and expertise needed to bring your designs to life.
Explore the new CNC machining capabilities for your next project, and if you require support contact us here