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Manufacturing Insight: 3D Printer And Cnc Machine
Manufacturing Insight: Synergizing 3D Printing and CNC Machining for Precision Prototyping
At Shenzhen Honyo Prototype, we recognize that advanced product development demands a strategic blend of additive and subtractive manufacturing technologies. Our core capabilities integrate industrial-grade 3D printing with high-precision CNC machining, providing clients with a comprehensive solution for rapid, functional prototyping and low-volume production. Understanding the distinct advantages and optimal applications of each technology is critical for efficient engineering iteration and final part validation. 3D printing excels in creating complex geometries, internal features, and organic shapes impossible with traditional methods, enabling rapid design validation and concept modeling. Conversely, CNC machining delivers superior dimensional accuracy, exceptional surface finishes, and the ability to work with the broadest spectrum of engineering-grade metals and plastics, essential for end-use performance testing and final part qualification. Leveraging both technologies within a single workflow—often termed hybrid manufacturing—allows our engineering team to optimize part production, utilizing 3D printing for complex cores or housings followed by CNC for critical mating surfaces or tight-tolerance features.
Honyo Prototype maintains a dedicated fleet of industrial systems calibrated for repeatability and material integrity. Our in-house capabilities encompass multiple 3D printing processes and multi-axis CNC centers, managed under strict ISO 9001 quality protocols. The following table summarizes key technical parameters for our primary industrial systems:
| Technology | Key Processes/Machines | Material Range | Typical Tolerance | Lead Time (Prototype) | Primary Application Focus |
| :—————— | :—————————————– | :——————————— | :—————- | :——————– | :——————————— |
| Industrial 3D Printing | SLS (Nylon), SLA (Engineering Resins), MJF | Nylon PA11/PA12, ABS-like, TPU, PP | ±0.1% (min ±0.1mm) | 1-3 Days | Complex assemblies, fluidics, jigs |
| CNC Machining | 3/4/5-Axis Milling, Precision Turning | Aluminum 6061/7075, Steel, Stainless, Titanium, Engineering Plastics | ±0.025mm (standard) | 2-5 Days | Functional test parts, metal components, high-wear items |
Our engineering team provides critical value beyond machine operation. We offer concurrent engineering support during the design phase to optimize parts for manufacturability (DFM), recommending the optimal technology blend based on functional requirements, material properties, and required lead time. For instance, a fluid manifold requiring internal channels benefits from SLS printing for the core structure, while critical sealing surfaces undergo CNC finishing to achieve the necessary Ra < 1.6µm finish and micron-level flatness. Similarly, high-stress automotive brackets often utilize CNC-machined aluminum for rigidity, while associated sensor housings leverage MJF for rapid iteration of complex snap-fit features. This integrated approach minimizes iteration cycles and accelerates time-to-test.
Honyo Prototype’s strength lies in our seamless integration of these complementary technologies within a single, quality-controlled facility. We eliminate supply chain fragmentation, ensuring consistent material traceability, unified quality inspection protocols (including CMM validation), and direct communication between design engineers and manufacturing technicians. This holistic capability enables us to deliver not just parts, but validated solutions that meet stringent industrial performance criteria, empowering our clients to de-risk product development and transition confidently from prototype to production. Partner with Honyo to leverage the full spectrum of modern rapid manufacturing for your most demanding engineering challenges.
Technical Capabilities
Shenzhen Honyo Prototype delivers advanced manufacturing solutions through precision 3D printing and CNC machining technologies. Our industrial-grade equipment supports rapid prototyping and low-volume production with tight tolerances, high repeatability, and material versatility. We specialize in Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Multi Jet Fusion (MJF), and Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), enabling clients to achieve functional prototypes and end-use parts across aerospace, medical, automotive, and consumer electronics sectors.
Our SLA systems utilize high-precision UV lasers to cure liquid photopolymer resins layer by layer, producing parts with smooth surface finishes and fine details. Ideal for visual prototypes, master patterns, and investment casting, SLA offers dimensional accuracy critical for form and fit testing. SLS technology employs a CO₂ laser to sinter nylon-based powders, creating durable, isotropic parts without the need for support structures. This makes SLS suitable for complex geometries, functional testing, and low-volume production runs.
For higher throughput and consistent mechanical properties, we deploy HP Multi Jet Fusion (MJF), which fuses nylon powder using thermal energy and detailing agents. MJF delivers uniform part density, excellent surface texture, and faster build cycles compared to traditional SLS. DMLS enables metal part production by melting powdered alloys—such as stainless steel, titanium, and aluminum—with a high-powered fiber laser. This process supports intricate internal features, lightweight lattice structures, and components that meet stringent performance standards in demanding environments.
All processes are supported by in-house CNC machining for finishing, post-processing, and hybrid manufacturing solutions. Our HAAS and DMG MORI CNC centers ensure tight integration between additive and subtractive techniques, enabling precise tolerancing, threading, and surface refinement.
The following table summarizes key technical specifications, achievable tolerances, and material options across our core additive platforms:
| Process | Typical Tolerance | Layer Thickness | Common Materials | Key Applications |
|——–|——————-|——————|——————|——————|
| SLA | ±0.1 mm (±0.004 in) | 25–100 μm | Standard Resin, Tough, Transparent, Castable, High-Temp | Prototypes, Master Patterns, Fit Testing |
| SLS | ±0.2 mm (±0.008 in) | 80–120 μm | Nylon 11, Nylon 12, Glass-Filled Nylon | Functional Parts, Housings, Ducting |
| MJF | ±0.2 mm (±0.008 in) | 80 μm | Nylon 12, Glass-Filled Nylon, Antistatic | End-Use Components, Mechanical Assemblies |
| DMLS | ±0.05 mm (±0.002 in) | 20–50 μm | Stainless Steel 316L, Titanium Ti6Al4V, Aluminum AlSi10Mg, Inconel 718 | Aerospace, Medical Implants, Tooling |
Each manufacturing process is supported by full in-house quality control, including coordinate measuring machines (CMM) and optical inspection systems. Shenzhen Honyo Prototype ensures every part meets defined engineering requirements, with documentation available for traceability and compliance. By integrating industrial 3D printing with precision CNC capabilities, we offer scalable, reliable manufacturing solutions tailored to complex design and performance demands.
From CAD to Part: The Process
From CAD to Part: Integrated Workflow for Industrial Additive and Subtractive Manufacturing
At Shenzhen Honyo Prototype, our production process for industrial 3D printing and CNC machining transforms digital designs into high-fidelity physical components through a rigorously defined, three-stage workflow. This integrated approach ensures manufacturability, optimizes lead times, and guarantees part quality from initial concept to final delivery. The seamless transition between stages is critical for complex prototypes and low-volume production runs demanded by our engineering clients.
AI-Powered Quotation & Feasibility Assessment
The process initiates when a client submits a CAD file through our secure portal. Our proprietary AI quoting engine performs an immediate, multi-parameter analysis of the geometry, material specifications, and requested tolerances. This system evaluates build volume constraints, identifies potential support structure requirements for additive processes, and estimates machine time for both 3D printing and CNC operations. Crucially, the AI flags preliminary manufacturability concerns—such as extreme aspect ratios or features below minimum tool diameters—providing an accurate cost and timeline estimate within minutes, not days. This rapid assessment allows for early project validation and sets clear expectations before engineering resources are engaged.
Engineer-Led Design for Manufacturability (DFM) Review
Following quotation acceptance, Honyo’s senior manufacturing engineers conduct a comprehensive DFM review. This is not a passive check but an active optimization phase. Engineers collaborate directly with the client to resolve geometric conflicts, suggest material-specific adjustments, and refine features to leverage the full capability of our production equipment while minimizing post-processing. Common resolutions identified and addressed during this stage include:
| Design Challenge | Honyo’s DFM Solution | Benefit to Client |
|—————————|———————————————–|—————————————|
| Thin Walls / Small Features | Recommend minimum viable thickness or feature size adjustment | Prevents print failure or breakage |
| Excessive Overhangs | Optimize orientation or integrate minimal, removable supports | Reduces material waste & post-process time |
| Tight Tolerances on Non-Critical Features | Suggest tolerance relaxation per GD&T standards | Lowers cost without compromising function |
| Internal Cavities / Complex Undercuts | Propose split-part design or alternative machining strategy | Enables manufacturability via CNC or SLS |
This proactive engineering step typically reduces iteration cycles by 30-50%, significantly accelerating time-to-part.
Precision Production Execution
Upon DFM sign-off, the validated design moves directly into production. For industrial 3D printing (utilizing SLS, MJF, or SLA), the CAD file is sliced with process-specific parameters, and the build is monitored in real-time for thermal stability and layer adhesion. CNC machining employs rigorously proven toolpaths generated from the optimized model, executed on multi-axis mills with in-process probing for dimensional verification. All critical parameters are logged for full traceability. Honyo’s production environment features:
| Machine Type | Key Capabilities | Typical Applications |
|—————————|———————————————–|—————————————|
| Industrial SLS/MJF | 700 x 380 x 580 mm build, ±0.3% accuracy, Nylon/TPU | Functional prototypes, complex assemblies |
| 5-Axis CNC Milling | ±0.005 mm tolerance, Hardened steel/aluminum | Precision housings, molds, fixtures |
| High-Resolution SLA | 145 x 145 x 175 mm, 25µm XY resolution | Medical devices, optical components |
Post-processing, including support removal, bead blasting, heat treatment, or precision finishing, adheres to documented procedures aligned with the DFM outcomes. Final inspection against the original CAD and client specifications, using CMM or structured light scanning, ensures every component meets Honyo’s stringent quality standards before shipment. This closed-loop workflow—from intelligent quoting through engineering collaboration to precision execution—delivers reliable, high-performance parts for demanding industrial applications.
Start Your Project
Start Your Project with Precision Engineering from Shenzhen Honyo Prototype
At Shenzhen Honyo Prototype, we specialize in advanced industrial 3D printing and CNC machining solutions tailored for product developers, engineers, and manufacturing teams across aerospace, medical, automotive, and consumer electronics industries. Our integrated manufacturing capabilities combine the precision of CNC machining with the flexibility of industrial 3D printing, enabling rapid prototyping and low-volume production with exceptional accuracy and repeatability.
Whether you are developing a first-stage prototype or preparing for small-batch manufacturing, our team ensures your design transitions seamlessly from concept to physical reality. We utilize high-performance materials such as PEEK, ULTEM, ABS, PC, and a full range of engineering-grade thermoplastics in our 3D printing processes. For CNC machining, we support aluminum (6061, 7075), stainless steel, brass, titanium, and engineering plastics with tight tolerances down to ±0.005 mm.
Our facility in Shenzhen is equipped with state-of-the-art FDM, SLA, SLS, and metal 3D printing systems, alongside multi-axis CNC machines that deliver high-speed, high-precision cutting for complex geometries. Every project undergoes rigorous quality control, including first-article inspection and dimensional reporting, ensuring compliance with ISO 9001 standards.
To begin your project, simply submit your 3D CAD files in STEP, IGES, or native SolidWorks format. Our engineering team will conduct a comprehensive Design for Manufacturing (DFM) review, providing feedback on material selection, feature optimization, and lead time reduction—all at no upfront cost. We support both prototype and production-level runs, with typical turnaround times ranging from 3 to 10 business days depending on complexity and finishing requirements.
Below are our standard manufacturing specifications:
| Parameter | 3D Printing (Industrial) | CNC Machining (Multi-Axis) |
|————————-|——————————-|——————————-|
| Materials | ABS, PC, PEEK, ULTEM, Nylon, TPU, Metal (via DMLS) | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel, Titanium, Plastics |
| Tolerance | ±0.1 mm (standard) | ±0.005 mm to ±0.01 mm |
| Max Build Size | 600 x 600 x 600 mm | 1000 x 800 x 500 mm |
| Surface Finish Options | As-printed, Sanding, Painting, Anodizing (post-CNC) | Milling, Polishing, Bead Blasting, Anodizing, Powder Coating |
| Lead Time | 3–7 days | 5–10 days |
| File Formats Accepted | STEP, IGES, STL, SLDPRT, DWG | STEP, IGES, X_T, SLDPRT |
Your innovation deserves manufacturing precision you can trust. Partner with Shenzhen Honyo Prototype to accelerate development cycles, reduce costs, and achieve superior part performance.
Contact Susan Leo today at info@hy-proto.com to start your project. Include your CAD files and project specifications, and our team will respond within 4 business hours with a detailed quote and DFM report. Let us help you turn ideas into high-performance prototypes and production parts—efficiently and reliably.
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