As 3D printing has become more affordable for everyday consumers, manufacturers are beginning to explore the technology as a viable option because of its low costs and quick turnarounds. However, this technology has some limitations, including its reliance on design software and the fact that only certain materials can be used. Nevertheless, it is where laser cutting excels.
On the other hand, laser cutting machines use high-tech fibre optic cables that emit a highly concentrated beam of light onto the material, causing it to melt or burn away at precise points. It also operates very quickly, allowing parts to be cut out in no time flat. Both technologies came to their advantages depending on your particular needs.
In a nutshell, laser cutting helps manufacturers cut out specific parts of a product, while 3D printing provides the ability to make low-cost prototypes before going into final production. That being said, you must understand the critical differences between both technologies. So let’s explore both of them.
The Core Difference You Need to Know
3D printing is an additive process. It starts with nothing, and layer-by-layer, it builds up the part until it’s complete. On the other hand, laser cutting is a subtractive process. Before the laser hits the material, there are no parts to be cut out. So the laser will hit the material many times before you start seeing parts on your workbench.
3D printing is ideal for rapid prototyping, whereas laser cutting is best for mass production. The primary consideration that decides whether you go with 3D printing or laser cutting technology should be time to market, which will vary depending on your business sector and the needs of your customers. Though both technologies provide low-cost prototyping, they can offer efficient manufacturing if implemented correctly.
For example, 3D printing has gained significant momentum in the aerospace industry, where it provides lightweight components needed for more efficient aircraft. On the other hand, laser cutters are fast becoming an attractive option among fashion designers who want to create custom designs at a rapid pace. So it depends on what you want to build, the size, and the material options.
When is 3d Printing Useful?
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Below are some critical use cases of in-house or online 3d printing services that will help you decide whether it’s the right technology for you.
Better Rapid Prototyping:
If your business demands frequent product prototyping or your customers always ask for new designs, 3D printing makes it easy to produce a prototype quickly.
You Need Lightweight Components:
Materials used to 3d print objects usually weigh much less than their injection moulded counterparts. That’s why 3d printing is an ideal solution for lightweight aircraft designs, medical implants and even consumer products.
If You Don’t Need Mass Production:
3D printing is an excellent option if you only need to test your products or produce them in a limited batch. Also, 3d printing can save you time & money when you need to make a few prototypes before your product goes into mass production.
Advantages of 3d Printing Services:
- Lighter and robust parts, prototypes or products
- Low cost for prototyping
- Components can be made from a more comprehensive number of materials, including living tissue
- Ability to produce complex, intricate shapes.
When is Laser Cutting Practical?
The image used for illustration purposes. Zeal 3D Printing is not the owner or creator of the image.
The below use cases will help you decide whether laser cutting services are an excellent option for your business.
If They Require High Quality:
Suppose the parts that need to be cut out of an object have exact sizes. Or if they must maintain a certain material thickness, then laser cutting machine provide efficient solutions. Also, because lasers work by burning materials, this process creates less material wastage.
If Certain Materials Cannot Be Used:
Laser cutters excel when cutting very thin or reflective materials such as metal and glass. These components often prove to be a problem for 3D printers, but laser cutters can handle them without any issues.
If You Need Laser Engraving:
Lasers can also provide engraving and etching effects, which 3D printers usually cannot replicate. Laser cutters also excel in creating tiny and intricate parts that require a level of precision not achievable with 3D printing technologies.
Advantages of Laser Cutting Services:
- Can cut intricate shapes
- Engraving and etching effects are possible
- More efficient at creating thin materials
- Ideal for mass manufacturing of products
Which Should You Use?
You can’t go wrong with 3D printing if you need to make a prototype. The ability to iterate on product design quickly and cheaply makes it the ideal choice for building models, making prototypes and testing them before going into mass production.
On the other hand, laser cutters are great for producing small batches of complex parts or objects made from a vast range of materials, not possible with a 3D printer. In addition, they excel at cutting thin materials such as metal sheets and glass. Depending on your requirements, you can use both technologies to deliver quality products to your customers.
If you are looking for 3d printing or laser cutting in Melbourne, Brisbane or Sydney, then Zeal 3D Printing has got you covered. We offer you a comprehensive range of laser cutting and 3d printing services in Brisbane and other places to meet all your manufacturing requirements.
