
Additive and subtractive manufacturing are two of the most important methods used to create parts today. As technology advances, more businesses are comparing these approaches to find the best fit for their projects. The choice you make can influence your lead times, costs, and design flexibility. In this guide, you'll learn how these manufacturing methods differ and when to use each one.

Choosing the wrong material can lead to costly failures, production delays, and unreliable parts. Hardness testing helps you avoid these issues by showing how materials respond to pressure, wear, and force. It provides the data you need to make confident and cost-effective decisions. This guide covers the most widely used hardness testing methods, including Rockwell, Brinell, Vickers, Knoop, and Shore.