The Rise of Hybrid Additive and CNC Machining

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  • Source:VeloMach



The manufacturing landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the convergence of two powerful technologies: Additive Manufacturing (AM) and CNC Machining. For businesses in the global supply chain, particularly in precision parts manufacturing, this is not just a trend but a strategic evolution. The synergy of these processes is creating unprecedented opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and growth.


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Additive Manufacturing, or 3D printing, excels at creating complex, lightweight, and organic geometries that are often impossible with traditional methods. It builds parts layer by layer, minimizing material waste and allowing for rapid prototyping and the production of intricate internal channels and consolidated assemblies. However, AM parts often lack the superior surface finish and tight dimensional tolerances required for final functional components.

This is where CNC machining takes over. As a subtractive process, it uses precision tools to remove material from a solid block, achieving exceptional surface quality, high accuracy, and unparalleled reliability. It is the gold standard for producing highstrength, missioncritical parts.

Hybrid manufacturing intelligently combines these two worlds. The process typically begins with 3D printing a part near its final shape, often using metals like aluminum, stainless steel, or titanium. This "nearnetshape" part is then transferred to a multiaxis CNC machine for finishing operations. Critical features like bore holes, threads, and mating surfaces are machined to achieve the required tolerances and surface finishes.

For a onestopshop CNC machining service, integrating hybrid capabilities is a gamechanger. It allows us to offer clients a more comprehensive solution. We can now produce parts that were previously too complex or costly, such as:

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Optimized Components: Lightweight structures with internal cooling channels for the aerospace and automotive industries.
Rapid Tooling: 3Dprinted molds with conformal cooling channels that are subsequently CNC finished for longer life and faster cycle times.
Part Consolidation: Combining multiple assembled components into a single, stronger 3Dprinted part that is then machined at critical interfaces.



This hybrid approach significantly reduces lead times by streamlining the workflow from prototype to final part. It also lowers overall costs by minimizing material waste for complex geometries and reducing the need for multiple specialized suppliers.

By embracing hybrid additive and CNC machining, we are not just following a trend; we are futureproofing our services. This powerful combination enables us to deliver innovative, highvalue solutions that meet the evolving demands of our global clients, driving growth and solidifying our position as a leader in the next generation of manufacturing.