Whether you`re an inventor looking to create a first prototype or a company doing a short production run, choosing the right process for your needs is no mean feat.
At the most general level, computer numerical control (CNC) machining, injection molding and 3D printing can all be used for short runs, but those technologies each encompass multiple processes.
The number of products to choose the right
The number of parts you need is likely to be the biggest factor when deciding between these three technologies. Obviously, injection molding is the best bet if you`re planning on making several thousands of parts, but it is less cost effective for smaller quantities.
Ordering injection molded parts typically involves a setup and production fees for the mold, so even if your parts only cost three dollars per piece to produce, total cost, including the mold itself, could be reason enough to choose a different process if you only need ten parts at a time.
The point is, if you`re really set on injection molding but only planning on ordering 20 parts, you might as well order 200.
3D printing is typically a cost-effective option for up to about 50 parts and CNC machining is economical for up to about 200, but our typical single-cavity molds can typically produce up to 10,000 parts.
Plastic part made with selective laser sintering. (Image courtesy of Proto Labs.) Injection molded plastic part. (Image courtesy of Proto Labs.)