Less trial and error.
More engineering.
Guides to design, select material, and manufacture your parts better.
Latest articleCNC machiningElena LópezOct 8, 2026 · 4 minThin walls in machining: how thin can a wall be before the part starts to chatter
What is the maximum wall thickness that can be machined without vibration: material-specific limits, the height-to-thickness ratio, and how to design to prevent chatter.
File
Entire blog.
110 articles on machining, 3D printing, vacuum casting, and manufacturing.
202610 articles

Thin walls in machining: how thin can a wall be before the part starts to chatter
What is the maximum wall thickness that can be machined without vibration: material-specific limits, the height-to-thickness ratio, and how to design to prevent chatter.

3D-Printed Supports: When They’re Needed and How to Minimize Their Marks
Find out when supports are needed in 3D printing and how to design your parts to minimize support marks in Proto&Go!

Engraved texts and logos on prototypes: how to design them
Design legible text and logos on prototypes: sizes, fonts, depth, and finishes. Find out at PROTO&GO!

Prototype, pre-production run, or short run: what you need
Discover the differences between prototype, pre-production run, and short run, when to choose each option, and how to define the right volume.

How to avoid warping in 3D printing and CNC machining
Discover how to define wall thickness to prevent warping and deformations in parts made via 3D printing and CNC machining.

Prototypes to validate ergonomics and user experience
Discover how to manufacture prototypes to validate ergonomics, grip, and user experience before investing in production at Proto&Go!

Rapid prototyping in product development: when to use it
Discover what rapid prototyping is, when to use it, and how it helps validate parts and accelerate product development at Proto&Go!

ABS, PA12, or aluminum: which material to choose?
Discover what material to choose for a durable part. We compare ABS, PA12, and aluminum based on impact, stiffness, weight, cost, and application.

From CAD to the workshop: simple parts that complicate machining
Discover why some parts that look simple in CAD can drive up machining costs: critical geometries, design errors, and how to avoid them.
Avoiding defects in vacuum casting with silicone molds
Discover how to avoid defects in vacuum casting and improve the quality of parts made in silicone molds at Proto&Go!.
202535 articles

Intelligent quality control: AI applied to 3D printing and CNC
Discover how AI is revolutionizing quality control in prototyping, detecting errors instantly and accelerating every iteration.

Design for prototyping: technical tips
Discover the key principles of rapid prototyping, including practical recommendations for 3D printing and CNC machining.

Modular prototyping: design to evolve towards production
Discover what modular prototyping is, how to apply it to your designs, and the benefits it offers at Proto&Go!.

How to calculate tolerances to avoid rework on your prototype
We explain how to correctly calculate tolerances, taking into account the manufacturing technology used, at Proto&Go!

How to choose the ideal finish for your prototype?
In this article we explain what you should take into account to choose the perfect finish according to the goal of your prototype - Proto&Go!.

When to combine 3D printing and CNC machining for better results
Discover when it makes sense to opt for this combination of processes and what advantages it offers compared to using a single technology at Proto&Go!

From prototype to production: the right time to scale
At Proto&Go! we help startups, engineering firms, and R&D departments to prototype quickly and validate their ideas.

Basic guide to materials for rapid prototyping
In this basic guide, we review the main materials available in technologies such as 3D printing, CNC machining, and silicone mold making.

Frequent mistakes when ordering a prototype (and how to avoid them)
Discover the most frequent mistakes when ordering an online prototype and how to avoid them at Proto&Go!.

Functional prototypes vs. visual prototypes: which do you need?
Distinguishing between functional and visual prototypes allows you to optimize time, reduce costs, and make more informed decisions.

The future of rapid prototyping: generative AI and automation
Discover where the future of prototyping is heading and how to prepare for it: generative AI, automation, and cloud platforms at Proto&Go!

How to choose the right materials for your prototype?
Choosing the right material is one of the most important decisions in the prototyping process. Find out more at Proto&Go!.

How much does it cost to manufacture a prototype?
Discover all the factors affecting the final price in the manufacturing of your parts and prototypes at Proto&Go!

How to optimize your designs to reduce prototyping costs
Discover how to optimize your designs to reduce prototyping costs without losing functionality at Proto&Go!

What technology to choose for your first prototype? CNC vs 3D
Discover what factors you should consider to choose the most suitable option according to your project type at Proto&Go!

3D printing for production: advantages, limits and case studies
For a long time, 3D printing has been synonymous with rapid prototyping and concept development. Discover how it has changed at Proto&Go!

3D printing: How part orientation affects quality
Discover how the orientation of the part influences its final quality in the manufacturing of parts via 3D printing at Proto&Go!

Rough machining and finishing machining: differences and optimization
Discover the differences between rough and finish machining and how to optimize time and costs at Proto&Go!

Lean Prototyping in part and prototype manufacturing
Discover Lean Prototyping, an essential strategy for those who want to innovate quickly, reduce costs, and validate ideas efficiently.

CNC machining of composite materials: techniques and challenges
Discover why CNC machining of composite materials has become an essential technology at Proto&Go!

The evolution of desktop 3D printers
Discover how home 3D printers have gone from being a hobby for a few to an essential tool at Proto&Go!

5-axis CNC machining: everything you need to know
What 5-axis machining is, how it differs from 3+2 and 3-axis, which parts need it, when it is cheaper than several setups and how to design to make the most of it.

G-code: the control behind CNC machining and 3D printing
Discover how G-code precisely controls key processes in CNC machining and 3D printing at Proto&Go!

Sustainability in machining and 3D printing: eco-friendly practices
Discover the best eco-friendly practices in manufacturing processes such as CNC machining and 3D printing at Proto&Go!

Maintenance strategies to prevent failures in 3D printers
Discover the importance of preventive maintenance in 3D printers: keys to avoid failures and extend their lifespan at Proto&Go!

New materials in 3D printing: polymers, metals...
Discover the most innovative materials in 3D printing: from advanced polymers to metals at Proto&Go!

Differences between FDM, SLA, and SLS 3D printing: Which one to choose?
Discover the differences between FDM, SLA, and SLS 3D printing to choose the right technology for your project at Proto&Go!

3D Printing in Sports: Performance and Customization
3D printing has burst into multiple sectors, but its impact on the sports world is particularly notable. Discover more at Proto&Go!

CNC machining: 2025 technological trends
Discover how technological trends are revolutionizing the CNC machining industry in 2025 at Proto&Go!

Reducing costs in CNC machining for short runs
Discover how to reduce costs without compromising quality in small batch CNC machining of parts at Proto&Go!

The role of predictive maintenance in CNC machining
Discover how to avoid downtime and improve results with predictive maintenance in CNC machining at Proto&Go!

CNC machining: the key to competitiveness in the digital age
Discover how CNC machining has become an essential tool for industry competitiveness at Proto&Go!

3D printing: Choosing the right software for your projects
Discover how to choose the right software for your custom 3D printing projects in this Proto&Go! article.

Custom 3D printing: innovative applications
Discover the applications of custom 3D printing and the latest innovations in this technology at Proto&Go!

Common 3D printing mistakes and how to avoid them
Discover the most common errors in the custom 3D printing process and how to avoid them at Proto&Go!
202456 articles

3D printing as a key tool for startups
Discover how custom 3D printing has become a key tool for innovative startups at Proto&Go!

CNC machining: the integration of Big Data and predictive analytics
Discover how the convergence of Big Data and predictive analytics is redefining CNC machining at Proto&Go!

The impact of Artificial Intelligence on CNC machining
Discover how Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing CNC machining for part manufacturing at Proto&Go!

The role of CAM software in the CNC machining process
What CAM software does between your 3D file and the machine: tools, cutting strategies, simulation and G-code. How it affects the price and quality of the part and what the programmer needs from you.

3D printing: driving electric vehicle production
Discover how 3D printing with HP Multi Jet Fusion is driving electric vehicle production at Proto&Go!

What is hybrid 3D printing and how does it work?
Discover what hybrid printing is, its numerous benefits and applications, and how it works at Proto&Go!

Supports and quality in 3D printing of complex structures
Discover how supports affect the quality of complex structures in 3D printed parts at Proto&Go!

CNC Lathe and CNC Mill: main features and differences
On a lathe the part spins; on a milling machine the tool does. What each machine does, which parts come out of each, which is cheaper and how a CNC shop decides. With a comparison table.

Safety tips for CNC machines
Discover all the basic aspects and safety tips to minimize the risk of injury in CNC machining at Proto&Go!

General rules and size limitations in CNC machining
Discover everything you need to know about general tolerances and limitations in the CNC machining process at Proto&Go!

Industrial CNC machining: the importance of customization
Discover one of the major advantages of industrial CNC machining: its high capacity for customizing parts and prototypes.

Post-processing in 3D printing: what it is and when it is needed
What is done to a 3D-printed part once it leaves the machine: cleaning and bead blasting included in MJF, dyeing, smoothing, painting and machining of fits. What each one changes and how it affects the design.

3D printing: the leap from prototyping to mass production
When a 3D-printed prototype is already the final part, what to validate in each material (PA12, TPA), how the price drops from 1 to 100 units and which runs are better kept in printing rather than injection moulding.

Rapid prototyping: which process to choose at each stage
What rapid prototyping is and which process suits each stage: 3D printing for form, CNC or MJF for function, vacuum casting for appearance and pre-series. Lead times, materials and quantities.

Modern CNC milling: What is it and how does it work?
Discover what modern CNC milling is, how it works, and the future of the CNC machining process at Proto&Go!

Design tips to speed up CNC machining
Discover the best design tips to reduce lead times in the CNC machining process at Proto&Go!

CNC machining and 3D printing: competition or complement?
Discover how CNC machining and additive manufacturing technologies can complement each other for part manufacturing at Proto&Go!

5 myths about 3D printing
Discover 5 of the most common myths about additive manufacturing, more commonly known as 3D printing, at Proto&Go!

3D printing: how it is revolutionizing the aerospace industry
Discover how 3D printing is revolutionizing the aerospace industry and all the advantages this technology offers at Proto&Go!

3D printing: its importance in STEM education
Discover the importance and advantages of 3D printing in the education of STEM disciplines at Proto&Go!

3D printing trends in 2024: specialized materials
Discover the new specialized materials and the latest 3D printing trends for 2024 at Proto&Go!

Inspection equipment in CNC machining processes
Discover the importance of Inspection Equipment and quality control in CNC machining processes at Proto&Go!

Surface finishing for CNC machining
Anodising, bead blasting, polishing, black oxide, zinc, chrome, nickel and RAL paint: what each finish adds, which metal it applies to and how much it changes dimensions. With a table.

Tolerances in CNC machining: how they work and which to specify
What tolerance a machined part gets if you specify nothing (ISO 2768-f), how tight it can go (IT7), what a tight tolerance costs and how to specify H7, h6 or g6 fits on the drawing.

Mistakes to avoid in CNC machining
Discover the mistakes to avoid when manufacturing parts via precision CNC machining at Proto&Go!

3D printing: How to convert a 2D image into a 3D file
Discover how to convert a 2D image into a 3D file to manufacture parts via 3D printing at Proto&Go!

Infill in 3D printing: definition, types, and importance
Discover what filler material is in 3D printing, what types exist, and why it is important for your parts at Proto&Go!

3D printing: How to avoid warping in your parts?
Discover the causes of warping and how to avoid it in your 3D printed parts and prototypes at Proto&Go!

Latest advances in the world of 3D printing
Discover the latest major advances in 3D printing and how to convert a 2D image to 3D at Proto&Go!

The different machining tools
End mills, drills, taps, reamers and turning inserts: what each machining tool does, what it is made of and how it shapes the design and price of your part.

Everything you need to know about machining different metals
Discover the properties and basic characteristics of the different metals for CNC machining of your parts at Proto&Go!

Main industries that use CNC machining
Discover the key industries that use CNC machining for manufacturing their parts and prototypes at Proto&Go!

3D printing: its impact on the medical industry
Discover the impact of 3D printing on the medical industry and how this technology is used to replace a cast at Proto&Go!

3D printing: the revolution of printers in homes
Discover the benefits and applications of having a 3D printer at home and how this factor is revolutionizing the industry at Proto&Go!

3D printing: Strategies to reduce process costs
Discover tips and strategies to reduce the cost of the 3D printing or additive manufacturing process at Proto&Go!

Three tips to make 3D printed parts more durable
In this article, we tell you three practical tips to obtain more resistant 3D printed parts - Proto&Go!

How to optimize the printing speed of your 3D printer?
Discover techniques and methods to optimize the printing speed of your 3D printer at Proto&Go!
Vacuum casting in silicone molds: design tips
Discover the best design tips for the vacuum casting process in silicone molds at Proto&Go!

Tips to optimize the CNC machining process and reduce its costs
What drives the price of a machined part and seven design decisions that lower it without changing its function: radii, pockets, tolerances, holes, material, setups and quantity. With a table.

CNC machining: its importance in the medical industry
Discover why CNC machining is so important in the medical industry, its applications, and its future at Proto&Go!

3, 4, and 5-axis CNC machining: What is the difference?
Discover the difference between 3, 4, and 5-axis CNC machining for part and prototype manufacturing at Proto&Go!

CNC machining: its evolution and future
Discover the future and trends for the coming years in CNC machining for part and prototype manufacturing at Proto&Go!

3D Printing: How does it enrich product design?
Discover four ways in which 3D printing enriches product design and development at Proto&Go!

3D Printing to CNC Machining: when to make the switch
Discover when to use 3D printing and CNC machining and when to switch from one technology to the other at Proto&Go!

3D Printing: its types and best practices
Discover the main types of 3D printing, their best practices, how AI affects additive manufacturing... at Proto&Go!

3D Printing: relevant women in the industry
To commemorate International Women's Day, at Proto&Go! we highlight the importance of women in the history of 3D printing.

Vacuum casting or injection moulding: 50 to 1,000 parts
Vacuum casting in silicone moulds versus plastic injection moulding: investment, lead time, cost per part, materials and tolerances, with the maths for runs of 50, 300 and 1,000 parts.
Vacuum casting of silicone molds: uses and limitations
Discover all the uses, applications, and limitations of vacuum casting in silicone molds at Proto&Go!
Silicone molds: materials and finishes
Discover the materials and finishes of parts manufactured via vacuum casting in silicone molds at Proto&Go!

The use of robotics in CNC machining
Discover the latest advances in CNC machining related to the use of robotics for machine maintenance at Proto&Go!

CNC Machining: the Industry 4.0 revolution
Discover how CNC machining is revolutionizing Industry 4.0 and why machining companies should adapt to these changes.

CNC Machining: trends for 2024
Discover all the trends and the future of part manufacturing through CNC machining for 2024 at Proto&Go!

3D Printing: what will be its future?
Discover what the future of part and prototype manufacturing will be through 3D printing at Proto&Go!

Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing: how it works and when to choose it
How an HP Multi Jet Fusion printer works, what accuracy and materials it offers (PA12, TPA), what part size it accepts and when it beats SLS, FDM or machining. With a comparison table.

What is 3D Printing and how does it work
Discover what the 3D printing method is and how the process works for manufacturing parts and prototypes at Proto&Go!

3D printing: Benefits and applications
Discover all the benefits and applications of manufacturing parts via 3D printing at Proto&Go!
20239 articles
Silicone molds: process and benefits
Discover what silicone molds are, how the vacuum casting process works, and what its benefits and applications are at Proto&Go!

Reasons to use CNC machining for your parts
Discover the main reasons why you should use CNC machining for manufacturing your parts and prototypes.

The tools needed for online CNC machining
Discover which manufacturing tools you need for online CNC machining through our website: Proto&Go!

Benefits of CNC machining in prototyping
Discover all the benefits and advantages that prototypes and parts have with CNC machining at Proto&Go!

The precision of CNC machining in your parts and prototypes
Discover the advantages and benefits of CNC machining for creating your parts and prototypes at Proto&Go!

How to choose the right material for CNC machining?
Discover the best materials to manufacture your parts with the Proto&Go! CNC machining service!

Trends in CNC machining for aluminum parts
Discover what the main trends are in CNC machining of aluminum parts. Manufacturing aluminum parts in 3D.

Enabling mobility for all
Not all great projects start in a garage building computers. Some begin as research projects...

How high-precision machined parts are manufactured
Discover how we manufacture high-precision machined parts with the best quality at Proto&GO! CNC machining service.
Your next part starts here
Do you have the file?
Then you almost have the part.
Upload your 3D model to the Proto&Go! platform, choose process, material, finish, and quantity. You'll receive the quote in 24 hours.
It opens in a new tab. Accepted formats:

