When comparing the merits of rapid prototyping (RP) and CNC machining, opinions abound. RP and CNC machining both have staunch supporters that tout the benefits of their preferred technology.
However, those who are familiar with both technologies generally agree that each has its own merits.
In the past 15 years, prototype development has changed significantly. In the early days, most RP technologies offered an obvious speed advantage, but were limited by accuracy and material property issues. Since the launch of RP, CNC has advanced, in part due to the competitive threat, to become faster while offering many well-known benefits. Likewise, RP has improved in areas such as accuracy, material properties and surface finish. As the technologies come closer in capabilities, the selection process becomes increasingly difficult.
Rapid prototyping allows for extreme flexibility in design. Basically, if you can imagine it and draw it up within the software, you can bring that prototype to life. You can also increase complexity without adding much cost either.
Cost effectively producing complex parts is by far the biggest benefit of rapid prototyping and the reason it was developed in the first place.
The people (or lack thereof) using rapid prototyping is another big advantage of this process. Designing components became much simpler with this technology; therefore, the skill set required became much more attainable. Furthermore, rapid prototyping requires much less attention from your staff during the build. You can deliver the files for part production and start building right away.