Hybrid Manufacturing: Why Additive vs. Subtractive Is the Wrong Debate, Ep #34

Lights Out · 13 Feb 2026 · 1h 03m · Episode 34

What this episode covers

Dr. Jason Jones, CEO and founder of Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies, explains that hybrid manufacturing integrates metal 3D printing, CNC machining, and in-process inspection into a single digitally controlled workflow to eliminate handoffs and improve efficiency. He argues that the industry's focus on the 'additive vs. subtractive' debate is misguided, as the real value lies in combining these processes for applications like aerospace blade repair and late-stage configuration. Jones details how integrating inspection technologies like ultrasound and eddy current directly into the machine reduces validation barriers and accelerates adoption by providing immediate quality feedback. The discussion covers cost ranges, implementation strategies, and the importance of partnerships in helping shops transition from traditional machining to hybrid workflows.

Other shows on the same ground, closest first.

  • Manufacturing Happy Hour · 47m

    141: Additive Manufacturing and Creating Workplaces Where People Thrive with Lisa D. Block, CRO of Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies

    Lisa D. Block, Chief Revenue Officer at Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies, discusses the practical applications of additive manufacturing and the importance of building supportive workplace cultures. She explains that additive is not a cure-all but a tool that complements traditional methods, specifically highlighting the seven families of additive technology and the value of combining 3D printing with CNC machining. Block also shares insights on personal development, managing employee capacity, and fostering genuine diversity, equity, and inclusion beyond superficial metrics.

  • Additive Snack · 18m

    Implementing Additive Manufacturing and Traditional Manufacturing Processes — Special IMTS Edition

    Rich Stump, co-founder and CCO of Fathom Digital Manufacturing, discusses the company's hybridized manufacturing approach, which integrates additive technologies with traditional processes like injection molding and CNC machining. He highlights a specific project where his team produced 20,000 parts in 27 days using 12 different manufacturing processes to meet a Fortune 10 company's tight timeline. Stump emphasizes that additive manufacturing serves as an enabling tool for rapid prototyping, validation builds, and digital warehousing rather than a direct competitor to conventional methods. He also outlines Fathom's strategy post-IPO, focusing on software integration, capacity expansion, and changing customer mindsets through education and tangible project results.

  • Manufacturing Happy Hour · 46m

    233: Manufacturing 101, On-The-Job Training, and Finding Fulfillment in Engineering Featuring Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence

    Steve Ilmrud of Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, Jeff Van Horn of Industrial Technology Solutions, and Randy Smith, an aerospace CNC programmer, discuss the critical role of industrial metrology in reducing scrap and rework. They highlight how real-time inspection using tools like the Hexagon ATS600 laser tracker and spindle probes allows manufacturers to catch errors during fabrication rather than after, ensuring parts fit correctly in complex assemblies like the Vegas Sphere or NASCAR vehicles. The guests emphasize a paradigm shift toward proactive, on-the-job training where operators use data to verify processes, supported by the 'three Ps' framework of people, parts, and process. They conclude that investing in modern measurement technology and continuous education is essential for maintaining competitiveness and workforce fulfillment in modern manufacturing.

  • Additive Snack · 1h 28m

    Additive Manufacturing, Then & Now: A Conversation with Alex Oster, Autodesk

    Alex Oster, Director of Additive Manufacturing at Autodesk, traces the industry's evolution from his early days at the German service bureau FIT and the founding of Netfabb to Autodesk's acquisition of the company. He details the strategic consolidation of specialized CAD, CAM, and simulation tools into the unified Fusion 360 platform, emphasizing its role in lowering barriers to entry for metal additive manufacturing. Oster discusses the market split between high-end custom machines and affordable low-cost systems, and explains how AI-driven surrogate modeling and process monitoring are transforming simulation workflows.

  • Additive Snack · 36m

    The Integration of AM & Traditional Manufacturing with Penn United’s Jake Jones

    Jake Jones, Project Manager at Penn United Technologies, explains how the company organically integrated additive manufacturing (AM) into its traditional subtractive operations, starting with an EOS M290 in 2018. He details their strategy of cross-training existing precision manufacturing staff, managing high-uptime production with EOS M290 and M400 machines, and developing custom process parameters for complex geometries in sectors like energy and defense. Jones highlights the importance of treating AM as one tool in a broader toolbox, leveraging internal training facilities to build talent, and offering Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) guidance to customers.

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