Advances in CNC over the last decade have seen a choice arise. Whereas in the past a CNC milling machine would be used, now people have the choice of 3D printing. It has been agreed that one will not replace the other, and that both continue to have their place in the modern CNC world. So, in the jewelry industry, which method and technology is best for working with delicate materials.
3D CNC Milling Machine Versus Printing
So, which method is better for bringing jewelry designs to life? Then answer will depend on whether the jewelry you wish to make is small earrings, or larger personalized pieces with lettering.
A CNC milling machine uses rotary tools to carve jewelry. The initial process is done using a block of wax. This allows the jeweler to refine the model before the final casting. In the past, 3 or 4 axis machines were used for the process. Nowadays you may find some 5 axis machines used in the jewelry industry, although these machines are of course far more expensive to buy.
When to Use Milling
A 3D CNC milling machine is a step up from a traditional CNC milling machine. A traditional milling machine is good for making simple patterns with no undercuts. A milling machine is also good for designs with lettering and fine detail. Crisp, sharp letters can be produced. Mills are very good for carving sharp details, but they do have limitations. The smallest cutting tool tip measures 0.003 inches, to the naked eye very small, but not as precise as 3D printing.
Limitations are also found when mills with fewer than 5 axes are used. Mills are also not generally recommended for long, thin models. Mills traditionally have difficulty creating hollow pieces, and many designs are made in segments instead.
3D Printers
3D printers in contrast don’t use wax for jewelry, using a photopolymer resin materials that hardens when exposed to light. A 3D printer is recommended when you wish to create geometric shapes. As the models can be grown layer by layer, they are ideal for hollow pieces. When you want to make large volumes of pieces, you can also save time when you use a 3D Printer as opposed to traditional milling machinery.
The resin that is used for jewelry making with 3D printers is however not without its problems and negative issues. As it is a relatively new technique, it is still be improved on, and refined.
If you are thinking about making your own jewelry, you may also find you have more access to tech support if you use the modern 3D printing method. For small pieces such as jewelry, 3D printing is now far more popular than traditional milling machines. If however you want to make larger pieces with engraving and not just small jewelry, a milling machine with 5 axes is the most versatile option available. These machines are of course the most expensive option, and are not suitable for those on smaller budgets.
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