3D Printing VS Injection Molding - which process is better?
2023-12-28 17:46:51
3D printing and injection molding are two most widely used manufacturing technologies for producing plastic parts and components. Each manufacturing process has its own advantages and can be used together as complementary manufacturing methods. What is the difference between 3D printing and injection molding? 3D printing service is an additive printing process that creates objects by building up initial material layer by layer. 3D printing creates three-dimensional objects from reading a virtual computer design which allows you to produce parts without creating a mold. Plastic injection molding uses a mold that is filled with molten material that cools and hardens to produce parts and components. The Key Differences
Production Size
3D printing is suited for low volume production runs (100 parts or fewer), it is more approptiate and cheaper. Injection moulding is a perfect option for bulk production whereas, it is suited for High volume production runs (1,000+ parts per run).
Design complexity
Achieving complex designs is the advantage of 3D printing, 3D printing allows you to make design changes even during production, saving time and money on a run of components that may have a flaw. An injection molding process requires a mold to be built (inverse to the part) according to the required part design. It is not well suited to creating precise and delicate designs that can stand on their own.
Production Time
Injection moulding requires longer production times as it involves the designing of and building the perfect mold based on the design analysis (5-7 weeks for simple parts). The production times for 3D printing are less compared to injection molding. You can get your 3D printing order at Lingshantech factory delivered in 1-2 weeks, depending on material and process requirements.
Customization
3D printing is advised for prototyping and customization. Once a mold is made for injection molding, it requires a lot of money and time to modify the design. Injection molding is not recommended when customizing parts or modifying existing designs. 3D printing offers a huge scope for customization and all it requires is a modified or customized CAD file. Therefore, it is suitable for prototypes, test pieces. 3D printing and injection molding are two common manufacturing processes. Both processes have their benefits and drawbacks. Depending on your project needs, these two technologies can help you quickly prototype and produce. Lingshantech can support you with both designing and manufacturing related to injection moulding and 3D printing service.
