8 reasons why additive manufacturing complements other production methods

8 reasons why additive manufacturing complements other production methods

In the manufacturing sector, the integration of new technologies is the key to remaining competitive in an increasingly demanding and dynamic global market. The adoption of new tools is often aimed at increasing efficiency, reducing time and costs, and improving the parts manufactured. For example, additive manufacturing is being integrated as a transformative technology in […]

Content Navigation

In the manufacturing sector, the integration of new technologies is the key to remaining competitive in an increasingly demanding and dynamic global market. The adoption of new tools is often aimed at increasing efficiency, reducing time and costs, and improving the parts manufactured. For example, additive manufacturing is being integrated as a transformative technology in industries that use well-established traditional processes. Whether as a complementary tool or in a hybrid system,3D printing is fully compatible with traditional methods.

Traditional manufacturing remains the method of mass production, but it faces challenges in sustainability, design flexibility and material efficiency. Yet its ability to produce large quantities at low cost remains unmatched in many cases. The need to innovate and adapt to modern requirements is driving the adoption of process improvement technologies such as additive manufacturing. Understanding the importance of having the best of both worlds, here we explore how additive manufacturing complements other production methods. 8 reasons.

1: Rapid prototyping

Rapid prototyping offers several advantages over traditional manufacturing methods. It allows you to imagine several iterations to validate the design before mass producing the final part. Additive manufacturing is an ideal tool for designing prototypes. Thanks to their flexibility, these products can be manufactured at lower cost, without using existing tooling, and relatively quickly. Many businesses rely on 3D printing to validate their concept before choosing another more suitable manufacturing method. Additionally, rapid prototyping helps reduce waste associated with trial and error in traditional manufacturing. By leveraging the design flexibility offered by additive manufacturing, resource usage can be optimized and waste minimized. This is not the case for subtractive technologies like machining. This approach, combined with the ability to manufacture on demand, also eliminates the need for large inventories and minimizes waste associated with overproduction.

2: More efficient mold

3D printing allows you to create molds for processes such as injection molding. Since molds can be printed with complex geometries, such as cooling channels, it is possible to achieve better heat distribution and faster cooling times for parts. In contrast, functional mold designs can be created easily and quickly, whereas traditional mold manufacturing can take weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of the mold.

8 reasons why additive manufacturing complements other production methods

3D printing accelerates and optimizes injection mold production (Photo: Protolabs Network)

3: 3D printed model for lost wax casting

Lost wax casting is a traditional process for manufacturing high precision parts. 3D printing can create models with complex, detailed designs in wax or burnout resin that would be difficult to create using traditional methods. Ultimately, this not only reduces production time but also eliminates the need for expensive tools such as molds. Additionally, with 3D technology, model designs can be iterated quickly, making adjustments easier before entering the prototyping phase. This approach therefore combines the flexibility of digital design with the precision of traditional manufacturing.

4: Optimization of cutting tools

In addition to improving the final part, additive manufacturing can also help optimize the traditional mold itself. Milling tools (usually made from carbide inserts) wear quickly due to the heat generated during the cutting process. They are also difficult to manufacture by machining. to use With 3D printing, tools can be created with custom geometries and internal cooling channels to dissipate heat in the cutting zone, significantly extending tool life and performance.

5: Manufacturing fixtures and fittings

In manufacturing, jigs and fixtures are essential tools designed to improve process accuracy, efficiency and repeatability. With additive manufacturing, jigs and fixtures can be produced more quickly and customized to meet the specific needs of each process. These include, for example, drilling jigs, fixtures, welding jigs and molds, etc. As a result, a welding jig can be printed that ensures precise positioning of parts in complex assemblies, minimizing human error and maximizing repeatability. This is particularly useful in industries such as automotive and aerospace, where precision is essential to product functionality and safety.

1735421119 644 8 reasons why additive manufacturing complements other production methods

Jigs and fixtures guarantee the precision of traditional manufacturing (Photo credit:Pieces to take away)

6: Combined materials

Another reason to integrate additive manufacturing into traditional processes is that multiple materials can be used in a single part during the manufacturing process. 3D printing makes it easier to use advanced materials such as alloys, ceramics or reinforced polymers to create complex internal structures or custom components that would be difficult to achieve using traditional methods.

With hybrid manufacturing, materials can be combined during the manufacturing process, such as when a product requires heat or tensile strength in one area rather than the entire part. By following this procedure, manufacturers can use specific materials for the parts they need and use more economical materials for the rest of the part without altering the final quality.

7: Repair and maintenance

3D printing also contributes to the maintenance, repair and aftermarket of traditional manufacturing by providing fast and efficient solutions to extend the life of tools and components. For example, with reverse engineering, a physical part can be analyzed via 3D scanning, creating a digital copy that can be converted into a CAD model. The model can then be modified or replicated to restore obsolete or hard-to-find parts, avoiding long delivery times and higher costs associated with replacement.

Additionally, the concentrated energy depositionThe 3D printing process (DED) makes it possible to repair metal parts by adding material only to the damaged area, while preserving the rest of the structure. This is particularly useful in applications where parts are expensive or lead times are long. Not only does this reduce costs over time, but it also minimizes waste by preventing the premature disposal of repairable tools or equipment.

1735421120 478 8 reasons why additive manufacturing complements other production methods

DED technology can apply metal or aluminum alloys to the parts you need.

8: Faster time to market

By leveraging additive manufacturing’s ability to quickly create prototypes, products can be brought to market faster. 3D printed prototypes allow companies to validate and test their designs faster and more cost-effectively than traditional methods, significantly reducing product development time. Using this technology, companies can cost-effectively produce small batches of products while waiting for large-scale production facilities to be ready to operate.

Daguang focuses on providing solutions such as precision CNC machining services (3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis machining), CNC milling, 3D printing and rapid prototyping services.

Welcome to GreatLight Metal,Maximum Processing Size 4,000 mm

Precision Machining CNC Quote Online

Loading file

Upload Click here to upload or drag and drop your model to the canvas.

The model is too large and has been resized to fit in the printer's build tray. [Hide]

The model is too large to fit in the printer's build tray. [Hide]

The model is too large, a fitting printer is selected. [Hide]

The model is too small and has been upscaled. [Hide]

Warning: The selected printer can not print in full color [Hide]

Warning: obj models with multiple meshes are not yet supported [Hide]

Warning: Unsupported DXF entity  [Hide]

Warning: could not arrange models [Hide]


File Unit:      
Scale:
%
L × W × H:
X: × Y: × Z:  cm 
Rotation:
X: ° Y: °  

Model Stats:

Material Volume: cm3
Support Material Volume: cm3
Box Volume: cm3
Surface Area: cm2
Model Weight: g
Model Dimensions:
x x cm
Number of Polygons:
Number of Shapes:
Total Path: cm
⚡ Instant Quote for Precision Manufacturing

Submit your design files (STEP/IGES/DWG) and receive a competitive quote within 1 hour, backed by ISO 9001-certified quality assurance.

📋 How It Works

  1. Upload & SpecifyShare your 3D model and select materials (Aluminum/Stainless Steel/Titanium/PEEK), tolerances (±0.002mm), and surface treatments.

  2. AI-Powered AnalysisOur system calculates optimal machining strategy and cost based on 10+ years of automotive/aerospace data.

  3. Review & ConfirmGet a detailed breakdown including:
    - Volume pricing tiers (1-10,000+ units)
    - Lead time (3-7 days standard)
    - DFM feedback for cost optimization

Unit Price: 

Loading price
5 Axis CNC Machining Equipment
4 Axis CNC Machining Equipment
3 Axis CNC Machining Equipment
CNC Milling & Turning Equipment
Prototype and Short-Run Injection Moldings Exact plastic material as final design
Volume Metal Die Casting Services - Precision Cast Parts
Bridge the Gap From Prototype to Production – Global delivery in 10 days or less
Custom high-precision sheet metal prototypes and parts, as fast as 5 days.
Custom Online 3D Printing Services
Custom Online 3D Printing Services
Custom Online 3D Printing Services
Design Best Processing Method According To 3D Drawings
Alloys Aluminum 6061, 6061-T6 Aluminum 2024 Aluminum 5052 Aluminum 5083 Aluminum 6063 Aluminum 6082 Aluminum 7075, 7075-T6 Aluminum ADC12 (A380)
Alloys Brass C27400 Brass C28000 Brass C36000
Alloys Stainless Steel SUS201 Stainless Steel SUS303 Stainless Steel SUS 304 Stainless Steel SUS316 Stainless Steel SUS316L Stainless Steel SUS420 Stainless Steel SUS430 Stainless Steel SUS431 Stainless Steel SUS440C Stainless Steel SUS630/17-4PH Stainless Steel AISI 304
Inconel718
Carbon Fiber
Tool Steel
Mold Steel
Alloys Titanium Alloy TA1 Titanium Alloy TA2 Titanium Alloy TC4/Ti-6Al 4V
Alloys Steel 1018, 1020, 1025, 1045, 1215, 4130, 4140, 4340, 5140, A36 Die steel Alloy steel Chisel tool steel Spring steel High speed steel Cold rolled steel Bearing steel SPCC
Alloys Copper C101(T2) Copper C103(T1) Copper C103(TU2) Copper C110(TU0) Beryllium Copper
Alloys Magnesium Alloy AZ31B Magnesium Alloy AZ91D
Low Carbon Steel
Alloys Magnesium Alloy AZ31B Magnesium Alloy AZ91D
ABS Beige(Natural) ABS Black ABS Black Antistatic ABS Milky White ABS+PC Black ABS+PC White
PC Black PC Transparent PC White PC Yellowish White PC+GF30 Black
PMMA Black PMMA Transparent PMMA White
PA(Nylon) Blue PA6 (Nylon)+GF15 Black PA6 (Nylon)+GF30 Black PA66 (Nylon) Beige(Natural) PA66 (Nylon) Black
PE Black PE White
PEEK Beige(Natural) PEEK Black
PP Black PP White PP+GF30 Black
HDPE Black HDPE White
HIPS Board White
LDPE White
This is a finish of applying powdered paint to the components and then baking it in an oven, which results in a stronger, more wear- and corrosion-resistant layer that is more durable than traditional painting methods.
No coating required, product’s natural color!
This is a finish of applying powdered paint to the components and then baking it in an oven, which results in a stronger, more wear- and corrosion-resistant layer that is more durable than traditional painting methods.
This finishing option with the shortest turnaround time. Parts have visible tool marks and potentially sharp edges and burrs, which can be removed upon request.
Sand blasting uses pressurized sand or other media to clean and texture the surface, creating a uniform, matte finish.
Polishing is the process of creating a smooth and shiny surface by rubbing it or by applying a chemical treatmen
A brushed finish creates a unidirectional satin texture, reducing the visibility of marks and scratches on the surface.
Anodizing increases corrosion resistance and wear properties, while allowing for color dyeing, ideal for aluminum parts.
Black oxide is a conversion coating that is used on steels to improve corrosion resistance and minimize light reflection.
Electroplating bonds a thin metal layer onto parts, improving wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and surface conductivity.
This is a finish of applying powdered paint to the components and then baking it in an oven, which results in a stronger, more wear- and corrosion-resistant layer that is more durable than traditional painting methods.
This is a finish of applying powdered paint to the components and then baking it in an oven, which results in a stronger, more wear- and corrosion-resistant layer that is more durable than traditional painting methods.
Please provide additional text description for other surface treatment requirements!
Material
Material
  • CNC Metals
    • Aluminum
    • Brass
    • Stainless steel
    • Inconel718
    • Carbon Fiber
    • Tool Steel
    • Mold Steel
    • Titanium
    • Alloy Steel
    • Copper
    • Bronze
    • Low Carbon Steel
    • Magnesium
  • CNC Plastics
    • ABS
    • PC
    • PMMA (Acrylic)
    • PA (Nylon)
    • PE
    • PEEK
    • PP
    • HDPE
    • HIPS
    • LDPE
Printer
Printer
  • CNC Metals
    • 5 Axis CNC Machining
    • 4 Axis CNC Machining
    • 3 Axis CNC Machining
    • CNC Milling & Turning
    • Rapid Tooling
    • Metal Die Casting
    • Vacuum Casting
    • Sheet Metal Fabrication
    • SLA 3D Printing
    • SLS 3D Printing
    • SLM 3D Printing
  • Rapid Prototyping
    • Design Best Processing Method According To 3D Drawings
Post-processing
Post-processing
Finalize
The world's first CNC machining center that dares to provide free samples!

Free for first product valued at less than $200. (Background check required)

Precision Machining CNC Quote Online

15 Years CNC Machining Services

When you’re ready to start your next project, simply upload your 3D CAD design files, and our engineers will get back to you with a quote as soon as possible.
Scroll to Top

ISO 9001 Certificate

ISO 9001 is defined as the internationally recognized standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS). It is by far the most mature quality framework in the world. More than 1 million certificates were issued to organizations in 178 countries. ISO 9001 sets standards not only for the quality management system, but also for the overall management system. It helps organizations achieve success by improving customer satisfaction, employee motivation, and continuous improvement. * The ISO certificate is issued in the name of FS.com LIMITED and applied to all the products sold on FS website.

GreatLight Metal ISO 9001 certification successfully renewed
✅ ISO 9001:2015
GreatLight Metal ISO 9001 certification successfully renewed ZH

ISO 13485 certificate

ISO 13485 is an internationally recognized standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS) specifically tailored for the medical device industry. It outlines the requirements for organizations involved in the design, development, production, installation, and servicing of medical devices, ensuring they consistently meet regulatory requirements and customer needs. Essentially, it's a framework for medical device companies to build and maintain robust QMS processes, ultimately enhancing patient safety and device quality.

GreatLight Metal Technology Co., Ltd Has Obtained Multiple Certifications (3)
GreatLight Metal Technology Co., Ltd Has Obtained Multiple Certifications (4)

ISO 27001 certificate

ISO/IEC 27001 is an international standard for managing and processing information security. This standard is jointly developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It sets out requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an information security management system (ISMS). Ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational information assets, obtaining an ISO 27001 certificate means that the enterprise has passed the audit conducted by a certification body, proving that its information security management system has met the requirements of the international standard.

GreatLight Metal Technology Co., Ltd Has Obtained Multiple Certifications (1)
GreatLight Metal Technology Co., Ltd Has Obtained Multiple Certifications (2)

IATF 16949 certificate

IATF 16949 is an internationally recognized Quality Management System (QMS) standard specifically for the automotive industry. It builds upon the foundation of ISO 9001 and adds specific requirements relevant to automotive production and service parts. The goal is to enhance quality, improve processes, and reduce variation and waste within the automotive supply chain.

Automotive Industry Quality Management System Certification_01
Automotive Industry Quality Management System Certification_00

Get The Best Price

Send drawings and detailed requirements via Email:info@glcncmachining.com
Or Fill Out The Contact Form Below:

All uploads are secure and confidential.