subtractive manufacturing

Subtractive manufacturing is a process where material is removed from a solid block—such as metal, plastic, or wood—to create a desired shape. Think of it like sculpting or carving, where tools like drills, mills, or lathes cut away excess material. This method allows for precise, complex designs and is commonly used in industries like aerospace, automotive, and tooling. Unlike additive manufacturing, which builds objects layer by layer, subtractive manufacturing starts with a larger piece and gradually removes material to realize the final product.