Considering what is required to design additive parts can illuminate the value of understanding all manufacturing processes, including subtractive ones. Design methods directly affect manufacturing costs. Every component characteristic has an impact on manufacturing. Consider size and shape, complexity/intricacy, surface finish/coatings, hardness, dimensional tolerances and geometric tolerances. For each of these aspects, it is easy to spot distinctions that govern the related manufacturing cost. Generally, large, complex components are more difficult to produce than small, simple components. Fine finishes commonly require longer machining times than coarse finishes. Hard workpieces are more difficult to machine than soft ones. Workpieces made to less stringent tolerances require more elaborate processes than those requiring exacting precision.
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