Hybrid manufacturing

Additive manufacturing and subtractive manufacturing have their own unique sets of advantages. Sometimes, however, a project demands elements of both, and hybrid manufacturing (or all-in-one 3D printing) combines 3D printing with other fabrication techniques like CNC milling or laser engraving.

This gives both consumer and professional users an easy route to more complex parts, such as printed electronic housings with engraved logos or aerospace components with precision milled surfaces and internal 3D printed cooling channels. Some consumer-oriented hybrid systems are available for under $5,000, while industrial models typically cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.