CNC Machining in Australia: How It Compares to 3D Printing and Casting
CNC machining cuts your part from solid metal or plastic, with no tooling to pay for and the tightest tolerances of any common process. Compare it with the alternatives, see where casting takes over, and learn how to source it.
The short answer
Choose the process by quantity, tolerance and material:
- CNC machining for prototypes, small and medium batches, and any feature that needs a tight tolerance.
- 3D printing for one or two early prototypes where fit and look matter more than strength or finish.
- Die casting for repeat production of aluminium or zinc parts in the hundreds or thousands.
- Investment casting for complex steel or stainless parts at medium volumes, machined only where it matters.
CNC machining vs 3D printing, die casting and investment casting
How the most common ways to make a precision part compare on cost, accuracy and speed.
Swipe the table sideways to see every option →
| Comparison | CNC machiningThis page | 3D printing | Die casting | Investment casting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Prototypes to production batches, tight tolerances | One-off prototypes and fit checks | Repeat production of aluminium and zinc parts | Complex steel parts at medium volumes |
| Materials | Almost any metal or engineering plastic | Selected plastics and metal powders | Aluminium and zinc alloys | Carbon, alloy and stainless steels |
| Tooling cost | None | None | High: hardened steel die | Medium: wax pattern tool |
| Cost per part at volume | High | Highest | Lowest | Medium |
| Tolerances | Tightest | Loose | Good as cast; machined where critical | Good as cast; machined where critical |
| Surface finish | Smooth, machined | Layer lines, usually post-processed | Smooth as cast | Smooth as cast |
| Time to first parts | Short, no tooling | Shortest | Longest, die build first | Medium |
Ratings are general guidance. Your manufacturing advisor confirms the best option for your drawing.
When does CNC machining stop being the cheapest option?
Drag the slider to change the order quantity and see which process gives the lowest cost per part.
Illustrative example for a small aluminium part, not real prices. Crossover points depend on your part's size, material and complexity, so your quote shows unit prices at several quantities.
3-axis vs 5-axis CNC machining
Both cut the same materials, but they suit different shapes.
3-axis machining
The cutter moves in X, Y and Z. The most economical choice for parts whose features face one or two directions.
- Plates, brackets, flanges and enclosures
- Lowest machine rate
- Extra setups for features on other faces
5-axis machining
The part tilts and rotates, so the cutter reaches angled faces and undercuts in a single setup.
- Manifolds, impellers and complex housings
- Fewer setups, better accuracy between faces
- Higher machine rate per hour
Relative ratings out of 5, for comparison between the two options only.
Where to get CNC machining for an Australian business
Once you have chosen CNC machining, the next decision is who machines your parts.
Swipe the table sideways to see every option →
| Comparison | Local Australian machine shop | Overseas marketplace | RTech factory-direct |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who makes your part | The local machine shop | Whichever supplier takes the job | Our own factory |
| Price per part | Typically the highest | Lower, plus platform margin | Factory-direct, no markup |
| Freight, customs and duty | Not needed | Often quoted separately | Included, one price to your door |
| Lead time | Fastest for urgent one-offs | Varies by supplier | 4–8 weeks to your door; prototypes by air |
| Inspection report | Varies by shop | Varies by supplier | With every order |
| Finishing | Often sent out to another supplier | Varies by supplier | Anodising, plating and powder coat in the same order |
| Face-to-face visits | Easiest | Not usually possible | Dedicated advisor in Sydney |
General comparison. Individual suppliers vary.
From drawing to machined part
One price agreed up front, and one manufacturing advisor the whole way.
Send your drawing
STEP file plus a PDF drawing with tolerances, quantity, material and finish.
Design review
Tolerances, radii and threads checked for machinability. Price and lead time within 48 hours.
Programming and first article
Toolpaths are programmed and the first part is measured against your drawing.
Production and finishing
The batch is machined, deburred and finished as your drawing specifies.
Delivered duty paid
Shipped, cleared and delivered to your door with the inspection report and material certificates.
CNC machining questions
Is there a minimum order quantity for CNC machining?
No. There is no fixed minimum, so single prototypes and production batches are both welcome. Unit prices fall as quantity rises because programming and setup are shared across more parts, and your quote shows the price at several quantities.
What tolerances can CNC machining hold?
Typical machined features are held to ±0.05 mm, and bearing seats and other critical fits can be held to ±0.02 mm. Put the tolerances that matter on your drawing; looser tolerances elsewhere keep the price down.
What materials can you CNC machine?
Aluminium alloys such as 6061 and 7075, carbon and alloy steels such as 4140, stainless steels, brass, and engineering plastics such as acetal and nylon. Your advisor will suggest a material if you are unsure.
When should I switch from CNC machining to casting or moulding?
When your quantities are high enough to pay for a die or mould. For metal parts that is usually in the hundreds or more. Your quote can show the machined price alongside a cast or moulded price so you can see the crossover.
Can you anodise, plate or powder coat machined parts?
Yes. Anodising, plating and powder coat are arranged as part of the same order, so finished parts arrive ready to use, with the finish shown on your inspection report.
How long does CNC machining take?
Most orders arrive 4–8 weeks after you approve the quote, and there is no tooling to build first. Prototypes and urgent orders can travel by air. Your quote gives a confirmed delivery date.
Do I pay customs duty on machined parts?
No. Prices are delivered duty paid: freight, customs clearance and import duty are included in one price, so there is no separate bill when the parts arrive.
Related guides
Ready to price your machined part?
Send your drawing and we will come back with one price delivered duty paid, a lead time and any design notes.