Quick Answer
3D printing excels for complex geometries and same-day production (2-4 hours), while CNC milling offers superior durability and precision for high-volume manufacturing. 3D printing costs $8-15 per orthotic versus $12-25 for CNC, but material strength varies significantly.
Manufacturing Technology Comparison
| Factor | 3D Printing | CNC Milling |
|---|---|---|
| Production Time | 2-4 hours | 4-8 hours |
| Material Cost | $8-15 per orthotic | $12-25 per orthotic |
| Precision | ±0.1-0.2mm | ±0.05mm |
| Durability | Good (TPU materials) | Excellent (EVA, PE) |
3D Printing Advantages
- Complex Geometries: Create intricate internal structures impossible with traditional manufacturing
- Same-Day Delivery: Patient satisfaction increases with immediate orthotic fitting
- Material Flexibility: Use specialized flexible filaments designed for medical applications
- Lower Initial Investment: Professional 3D printers start at $15,000 versus $35,000+ for CNC systems
CNC Milling Advantages
- Superior Durability: Milled orthotics last 2-3x longer than 3D printed versions
- Higher Precision: Achieves medical-grade tolerances for critical applications
- Material Variety: Works with traditional orthotic materials like EVA and polyethylene
- Production Volume: Efficient for high-volume manufacturing with consistent quality
Which Technology Should You Choose?
Choose 3D Printing If:
- You prioritize same-day delivery and patient satisfaction
- Your practice focuses on custom, complex orthotic designs
- You have limited initial capital for equipment investment
- Your volume is under 50 orthotics per month
Choose CNC Milling If:
- Durability and longevity are primary concerns
- You require medical-grade precision for specialized applications
- Your practice produces over 100 orthotics monthly
- You prefer traditional orthotic materials