Traditional manufacturing processes: vacuum casting, injection molding, or CNC milling
In addition to additive manufacturing processes, traditional manufacturing methods continue to be used in industrial component production. They are suitable for specific production volumes and material requirements and serve as a useful complement to 3D printing.
Traditional manufacturing or 3D printing?
Traditional manufacturing as a complement
Our focus is on industrial 3D printing processes. We specifically use traditional manufacturing processes such as vacuum casting or injection molding when they offer technical or economic advantages. Our goal is always to find the right solution for the project —regardless of the process.
Whether a traditional manufacturing process or a 3D printing process is the better choice depends on several factors—including production volume, part geometry, material requirements, and the project phase.
An overview of our traditional manufacturing processes
Vacuum casting – plastic parts for prototypes and small production runs
Vacuum casting is a proven method for manufacturing plastic components in small batches. In this process, liquid plastic is poured into silicone molds based on a master model.
Typical characteristics of vacuum casting:
- good surface quality
- flexible choice of materials
- fast delivery times
- production-grade component properties
Typical applications:
- Prototypes & Functional Models
- Small-batch production
- Pre-production components
Background on 3D printing:
Vacuum casting is often used when multiple identical components are needed and 3D printing reaches its economic limits.
Injection Molding – Mass Production of Plastic Components
Injection molding is used to manufacture plastic components in large quantities. The material is injected into a mold, resulting in components with high dimensional accuracy.
Typical characteristics of injection molding:
- very high repeatability
- low unit costs for large quantities
- high-quality finish
- durable and robust components
Typical applications:
- Production components
- Functional parts for end use
- durable plastic components
Background on 3D printing:
Injection molding is the most cost-effective solution for large production runs, while 3D printing offers advantages in terms of product variety and short development cycles.
CNC Milling & Turning – for Metal and Plastic Components
CNC milling is a machining process used to produce high-precision components. Material is continuously removed from a blank until the desired geometry is achieved. The process is particularly well-suited for producing individual parts with precise dimensions.
Typical characteristics of CNC milling:
- very high dimensional accuracy and repeatability
- good to very good surface quality
- wide variety of materials
- mechanically robust components suitable for mass production
Typical applications:
- Functional prototypes, small-batch production
- high-precision technical components
- Components with threads, fits, or metal inserts
Background on 3D printing:
CNC milling is the preferred method when very tight tolerances or high mechanical strength are required. The process is particularly well-suited for components where precision and material performance are critical.
Available materials
We offer a wide selection of vacuum casting resins and materials for injection molding. To choose exactly the right material, it is important to define the material properties in advance.
Should a component have ABS-like or rubber-like properties?
Does the part consist of several components?
What should the temperature range be (-50 to +200 degrees)?
Which color would you like—clear, black, white, translucent, or beige?
Looking for food-safe material – silicone (RTV silicone) or polyamide PA6?
We'll advise you and work with you to find the right material for your component.
Our Services
Traditional or 3D printing?
Choosing the right manufacturing process depends on several factors—including production volume, component geometry, material requirements, and project phase.
General guidelines:
- 3D Printing: Prototypes, Custom Parts, Fast Turnaround
- Vacuum casting: small batches, pre-production prototypes
- Injection molding: High-volume production
The right manufacturing process for your project
We take a technology-neutral approach to consulting and, when appropriate, combine 3D printing processes with traditional manufacturing technologies. Our goal is to find the best technical and cost-effective solution for your component.
Contact us!
We look forward to hearing from you
+49 (0) 341 231 837 50 info@rapidobject.com