[audietron]

Originally Posted by Andrew Schreiber

You are looking at the "3D Printing Revolution" through a very jaded lens. Allow me to walk you through the process I'm going through right now for some structural parts:

Step 1: CAD Parts
Step 2: Print Parts
Step 3: Assemble parts
Step 4: Simulate loading to failure
If acceptable failure continue, else go back to Step 1 and iterate.
Step 5: Depending on part produce part a mold or make on router/mill

Because I have the 3d printer (and can run it unattended) I can hit print and go work on other things. This means I can iterate a lot faster on parts. And sometimes it's far easier to see problems with a design when you can hold it in your hand.

If you look at it as the end of the manufacturing process it's fairly useless. If you look at it as a step in the engineering process it's much more useful.

I agree with you here, that is why they are referred to as a "rapid Prototyping machine" meaning they are not meant for major parts only quick samples and models of a practical part.

I would also like to mention that a CNC router can be really noisy and depending on where you live in college (i.e. A dorm or apartment) this may be a problem. I would also say that a router is more 2D objects that you would have to use other tools for to bend and shape defeating your purpose. 3D printing would most likely be the best way to go for college at least.