There are two prevailing types of manufacturing: additive and subtractive.
At first, it is hard to see the differences between the two, but when observed, there is a clear winner.
To begin the comparison, the additive manufacturing(AM) process builds layers from a material to an empty base whereas the subtractive manufacturing(SM) removes parts from a slab of material. AM has the issue of creating uneven surfaces which must be smoothed out manually. SM, on the other hand, allows the user an option to the type of surface whether it be smooth or rough. Another disadvantage of AM compared to SM is the time it takes. For example, 3D printing a 5 inch by 5 inch cube can take half a day whereas CNC machining takes much less time.
As delightful as SM sounds, it still has its disadvantages greatest one being the cost. As designs get more complex, power of the tool and therefore prices would increase. Since price is such a driving force in projects, many people opt to 3D print for this very reason.
Now that the two are convincingly compared, the winner of the comparison is... drumroll please... both!
Both processes have their ups and downs and whichever wors best for the user all depends on the user.
So my question for you is add? or subtract?
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