Sep. 09, 2024
kaierwo Product Page
June 24,
15 minutes read
3D printing has revolutionized the way we create and prototype products. This advanced technology enables the construction of objects by layering materials based on a digital model. Yet, while 3D printing can often be more cost-effective than a traditional manufacturing process, determining its actual cost isn&#;t always straightforward.
When you pose the question, &#;How much does 3D printing cost?&#;, the answer isn&#;t a simple one. Various factors influence the overall cost, ranging from the type of 3D printer to how much material costs, model complexity, and post-processing needs all play a role.
As we navigate this guide, remember that costs can vary widely based on these and other aspects.
Before you can turn out that first 3D print, several initial investments are required:
The cost of a 3D printer largely depends on its features, quality, and the purposes it serves. Below is a breakdown:
Ideal for beginners, these printers are often limited in features and print quality.
A hobbyist 3D printer typically offers better quality and more features than entry-level options.
These printers are ideal for professionals and small businesses. They offer high-quality prints, larger build plates, and advanced features.
Raise3D Pro3 Series includes 2 models. These are professional dual extruder 3D printers. Pro3 starts from $5,599.00 and Pro3 Plus starts from $7,599.00.
These are top-of-the-line machines used by large businesses and manufacturing units. They offer the best quality, highest speeds, and largest print sizes.
Fused Deposition Modeling, FDM, is one of the most accessible forms of 3D printing technology. It&#;s where thermoplastic filaments, the likes of PLA or ABS, are melted and extruded layer by layer to craft a 3D object.
The cost for FDM printers spans from budget-friendly home models to sophisticated industrial machines. An entry-level 3D printer can cost as little as a few hundred dollars, while higher-end models could reach the thousands, excluding material costs.
Stereolithography, or SLA, is a resin-based 3D printing technology. It uses ultraviolet light to solidify liquid resin into the desired 3D shape. SLA printing is known for its high resolution and quality, capable of intricate details.
The price for SLA technology starts higher than FDM and can increase substantially based on the capabilities of the resin printer and the materials used, often exceeding several thousand dollars.
Selective Laser Sintering, SLS, uses a powerful laser to fuse small particles of polymer powder into a solid structure. SLS is favored for its strength and durability, making it a choice for functional prototypes and end-use parts.
The cost of SLS 3D printers and the associated printing material costs typically place this technology in a higher price bracket, often utilized by professional services and businesses with a considerable budget.
MultiJet Fusion, developed by HP, is a newer player in the 3D printing arena, making waves with its speed and precision detail capabilities. MJF disperses a binding agent onto a powder bed and fuses it with heating elements.
As a cutting-edge technology, the costs associated with MJF printers and their maintenance are higher, generally targeting industrial use with a significant investment required.
Digital Light Processing, DLP, is similar to SLA in that it uses light to cure resin, but it differs by employing a digital light projector screen to flash a single image of each layer all at once, which makes DLP faster than SLA in some cases.
The costs for DLP technology are comparable to SLA, increasing with the printer&#;s size and complexity.
Beyond the printer itself, successful 3D printing operations necessitate a range of peripherals and setup investments. For resin-based printers like SLA and DLP, a curing station is vital, often adding several hundred dollars to the initial cost.
Maintaining a consistent print environment may also result in expenses such as dedicated space and electricity supply, which add to overhead costs.
Diving deeper into the 3D printing process reveals the importance of slicing software. This software translates 3D models into instructions that a printer can understand.
Options range from free slicers like Cura to advanced, feature-rich suites that cater to professionals, which can cost several hundred dollars.
Understanding the recurring expenses of 3D printing is vital for hobbyists and professionals. Among these, the cost of materials stands out as a significant factor.
The choices made at the purchasing stage not only influence the quality and properties of the 3D printed objects but also have a direct impact on the bottom line of 3D printing projects.
Figuring out the costs associated with 3D printing materials is fundamental when estimating the budget for any 3D printing project. The price of materials can dictate profit margins, project feasibility, and even design choices.
Materials typically come in three main types: filaments, resins, and powders, each with unique properties and cost implications. Let&#;s explore these types, highlighting how they contribute to the overall 3D printing cost.
Filaments are a popular choice for many 3D printer enthusiasts, especially within the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printing technology. The prices for these filaments vary, primarily depending on the type and quality:
Resin printing, associated with Stereolithography (SLA) and Digital Light Processing (DLP) technologies, uses liquid resins that harden under specific wavelengths of light. The cost of resin materials can influence the overall 3D printer costs substantially:
In addition to the cost of resins, Stereolithography (SLA) and Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printing technologies require a post-curing process. This is a crucial step to achieve the final properties of the printed parts. Here are key points to consider:
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) 3D printers use metal powders. These materials represent a significant jump in material costs due to their applications in industrial and high-performance contexts:
The 3D printer model, power requirements, and duration of use affect the energy costs. On average, a 3D printer consumes about 50 watts (0,05kWh) to 500 watts (0,5kWh) per hour.
At the average US electricity rate of $0.13 per kWh, the cost can range from $0. to $0.065 per hour. Therefore, for a printing job lasting 10 hours, the electricity costs could range from $0.065 to $0.65.
These figures assume constant operation at peak power, which is seldom the case, as printers fluctuate in energy usage based on the printing phase and the model&#;s efficiency.
Below is the average electricity consumption per printer type.
A 3D printer needs maintenance to ensure the machine&#;s longevity and reliability, which, if neglected, can lead to diminished print quality or printer downtime. Below, we delve into regular maintenance tasks and their associated costs:
A rough estimate for monthly 3D printer maintenance costs can range from $20 to $200, scaling with the printer&#;s complexity and frequency of use.
A significant portion of 3D printing costs is labor, the skilled operation of the machinery, and the intricate art of design. Machine operators in the US may command hourly wages ranging from $15 to $25, while specialized 3D design work can elevate this cost to $30-$60 per hour.
Understanding the price of a 3D print is essential, whether you are a hobbyist with a printer at home or a business delving into 3D printing technology for the first time.
This guide aims to unravel the intricacies of 3D printing costs, providing a foundation for those eager to make the most of this innovative tool without breaking the bank.
Calculating the cost of your 3D model involves more than simply assessing the amount of material used. Several factors come into play, each as crucial as the next in determining the final price tag.
After considering such factors, the bottom line for most 3D models can vary significantly. Models can range from a few dollars for simple, small prints in basic materials to hundreds or even thousands of dollars for large, complex projects using high-end materials.
Model complexity can be a deceptive cost factor. It&#;s not merely the sophistication of the design but also how it translates to the printing process. Complexity can increase the need for additional supports within the model, drive up print failure rates, and require more post-processing work&#;each adding to the total cost.
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The volume of your 3D model and the material you select are perhaps the most tangible aspects when calculating costs. Estimations typically start with a calculation of the model&#;s volume, taking into account the density of the chosen material and any infill patterns used during printing.
A 3D print often emerges from the printer and needs further processing to be customer-ready. Post-processing, the final step in the 3D printing process, involves operations that can add significant value to the final product. However, they also add to the cost.
Post-processing isn&#;t merely a cosmetic choice; it&#;s often a necessity. The type of post-processing needed can depend on the end-use of the product, be it for functional prototypes, display models, or end-use parts. Each outcome may require different finishing techniques, from simple acetone smoothing to intricate painting and detailing.
The choice between undertaking post-processing yourself or opting for professional services can greatly influence the cost. While DIY post-processing can save on labor costs, it requires a time investment and the acquisition of specific skills. Conversely, professional services, though potentially more expensive, bring a level of finish and time efficiency that might be crucial for commercial projects. Doing your own research into these options will help clarify which might be most suitable for your 3D printing project.
Despite its transformative potential, 3D printing harbors hidden costs that may be prohibitive if not correctly managed. Understanding these costs is vital for businesses and hobbyists to ensure that the venture into 3D printing technology is efficient and economical.
Print failures present a two-fold issue: material waste and lost time. Every unsuccessful print squanders not only the raw materials, such as PLA, ABS, or resin but also the electricity and machine time that could have been allocated to successful prints. This is one of several &#;other factors&#; that elevate the material cost and impact overall production efficiency.
Depreciation of a 3D printer might not affect the day-to-day financials, but it certainly influences long-term profitability and replacement strategies. It&#;s a silent expense that creeps up, reflecting on balance sheets and the bottom line.
Whether it&#;s a dedicated printing room or a multi-purpose space, the environment where the 3D printer operates is another cost factor. The conditions necessary for optimal printing&#;like temperature and humidity control&#;can increase the overhead costs of a 3D printing business.
A diligent approach to waste management is crucial in 3D printing. Here are strategies to reduce waste and, by extension, costs:
In the era of digital designs and easy sharing, protecting intellectual property is paramount. Unauthorized use of designs can lead to loss of revenue and legal costs. Ensuring that intellectual property rights are secured is an essential, albeit sometimes costly, facet of 3D printing operations.
A 3D printer in disrepair halts production and may require costly repairs or replacements. Such interruptions also affect delivery timelines, potentially impacting customer satisfaction and retention.
Proficiency in handling 3D printing technology doesn&#;t come overnight. Training employees or spending time learning the intricacies of 3D printing software and hardware incurs costs in terms of both time and potential for error during the learning process.
Striving for high fidelity and precision in prints can escalate costs. As print quality increases, so does the scrutiny on the printing process, often necessitating more expensive materials, finer resolution settings, and potentially slower print speeds to achieve the desired outcome.
The reality is that with the correct knowledge and application of cost-saving measures, 3D printing can be incredibly cost-effective. Whether for a one-off prototype or part of a larger production process, understanding how to reduce expenses without compromising quality is crucial.
One of the most direct methods to reduce the cost of 3D printing is optimizing printer settings. Adjustments here can help lower material costs and save on the wear and tear of the printer, thus extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
Below are strategies for optimizing 3D printer settings:
Selecting the right material is as much about achieving the desired result as it is about managing costs. Each material brings its own set of characteristics and price points:
Although many people praise 3D printing for its ability to produce single, custom pieces economically, there&#;s a point at which the economics of scale come into play:
This guide has covered initial costs, recurring expenses, and other important factors in the economics of 3D printing. Mastering these aspects is not just a numbers game, but a blend of economy and efficiency. With the right knowledge, your 3D printer will be more than just a production machine&#;it will be a key to success.
However, one important decision remains: choosing the right printing partner. At Raise3D, we are dedicated to helping you on this journey. With our advanced printers, high-quality materials, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we can bring your creative vision to life.
So why wait? Start your 3D printing journey with Raise3D today and shape your future with us.
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
We often see online discussions about the price of 3D prints, or more specifically: how to calculate the price for having something 3D printed. Since there are many myths floating around, we figured out that many people will be interested in a deep dive into various aspects of this field. So, how do you set the right price for a 3D print? We&#;ll take you through the main aspects of 3D printing pricing that affect the price, however, if you&#;re not really keen on learning every single detail, feel free to scroll down to the end &#; we have a small surprise for you there.
Let&#;s imagine a purely hypothetical example of a certain Josef from Prague (any similarities to actual persons or places are purely coincidental), who bought three 3D printers to make some profit: he has the Original Prusa i3 MK3S, Original Prusa MINI, and the Original Prusa SL1.
A customer ordered this test object from Josef and wishes to know the price of the object printed on the printers mentioned above. It should be printed with Prusament PLA Orange (MK3s and MINI) and with Prusa Orange Tough resin (SL1).
Josef already knows that the most expensive aspects are manpower and filament (or resin). Filament and resin prices depend on the manufacturer&#;s pricing, which makes counting the material costs very simple. 1kg of Prusament PLA Orange costs 24.99 USD (without tax and shipping) and according to PrusaSlicer, one tree frog model consumes 6.27 g of filament (basic settings &#; 0.15mm layer height, 15% gyroid infill).
Josef simply calculated (24.99 / * 6,27) that material for one tree frog on the MK3s or MINI will cost him 0.15 USD. Printing a tree frog without supports on the SL1 (0.05mm layer height) will consume 10.43 ml resin &#; this costs 0.6 USD. If the customer wants to print it with other materials, the price could rise a lot. There are filaments with a price exceeding 90 USD/kg and resins more expensive than 315 USD/kg.
The bottom line here is pretty simple: Material cost = filament price / filament weight (g) * model weight (g)
Josef values his work at 9.50 USD/hour (calculated from average wage in the Czech Republic for the year ). He already knows that print preparation (including slicing) takes him approximately 5 minutes (10 minutes in case the resin in the SL1 needs to be changed). Therefore, he calculated the work on one treefrog to 0.8 USD for MK3s/MINI and 1.6 USD for SL1. It&#;s not too expensive to prepare small models downloaded from the internet. However, it&#;s important to know that plenty of models require more difficult print preparations. Even slicing alone can take even 30 minutes or more &#; e.g. preparing supports for SLA printing using manual supports can take a long time.
The price for human labor can, in many cases, reach dozens of USD, especially in cases when something completely new has to be designed. Even a relatively simple technical part can take several hours to draw, which increases the price dramatically.
Another thing that Josef calculated was 3D printer operation costs. He started with electricity: according to the local electricity distributor&#;s rates, 1 kWh costs from 0.07 USD to 0.09 USD. Let&#;s work with 0.09 USD. The printer input power depends on several factors, however, most of the time it needs around 100-150 W. Printing a tree frog on the MK3s takes 1h 16 min, 1h 10min on the MINI, and 1h 48 min on the SL1. With 150W power input (usually it&#;s not that much), electricity for printing one tree frog will be less than 0,023 USD. Such a low price is practically negligible.
On the other hand, Josef would like to recoup the money he spent on buying his printers within 6 months ( hours) of printing. This led him to add a fixed fee to printing hour costs. The fee (based on our actual printer prices) is 0.21 USD/hour for the MK3S, 0.1 USD/hour for the MINI, and 0.36 USD/hour for the SL1.
3D printer operation costs = Printer price / required investment return time (h) * print time (h)
Electricity cost = negligible
Josef is still afraid that his investment might not return with these prices. There are other factors coming into play as well: for example, a printing accident could occur, causing the loss of filament. Or there may be extra maintenance costs. The most common issues are usually print quality problems (e.g. printing large ASA-based objects can lead to warping etc.). You can head over to our older articles about print quality and troubleshooting.
In other words, it&#;s not easy to calculate a price that would cover all potential issues and/or mistakes. It largely depends on the user&#;s experience and many other factors. In this case, Josef has to observe what percentage of prints tend to fail over a long period, and what do these failures cost him. However, for starters, he set the margin to be 30% of the material (filament or resin) price.
So, let&#;s sum up the order: Josef charged the customer the following prices: 1.3 USD (MK3s), 1.16 USD (MINI), and 3.15 USD (SL1), tax not included. Certainly, there will be many people who see it differently &#; there are customers who won&#;t pay larger sums of money and there are makers who don&#;t see it profitable enough.
The purpose of this guide is to give you an overview of all things you should take into account when calculating the costs. Basically, you need to include the material costs, time spent on print preparations, and some kind of &#;failure insurance&#;, plus general running costs. The price for energy consumed is almost negligible. Really long prints will be around a dollar, tops. Obviously, we did not include taxes &#; if you want to start a business with commissioned 3D printing, you need to check your country&#;s laws regarding this kind of work.
Here&#;s a complete recap of Josef&#;s order:
Material: 0.15 (MK3s) + 0.15 (MINI) + 0.6 (SL1) USD
Labor: 0.8 (MK3s) + 0.8 (MINI) + 1.6 (SL1) USD
Printer operation: 0.27 (MK3s) + 0.12 (MINI) + 0.65 (SL1) USD
Margin (30% of material cost): 0.05 (MK3s) + 0.05 (MINI) + 0.18 (SL1) USD
Total: 5.42 USD
Finally, let&#;s see how the price would change if the customer wanted to have a truly large and complex model printed on the MK3s. Again, it&#;s a downloaded model, which is pretty much ready to print, however, it takes 1 day, 17 hours, and 48 minutes to finish. The material of choice is a non-standard carbon fiber composite material XT-CF20, which costs 49.99 USD and we will need 756 g to finish the print. Other values necessary for the calculation remain the same:
Material: (49.99 / 750) * 756 = 50.39 USD
Labor: 0.8 USD
Printer operation: 0.21 * 41.8 + 0.023 * 41.8 = 9.74 USD
Margin (30% of material cost): 50,39 * 0,3 = 15,12 USD
Total: 76.05 USD
It comes as no surprise that larger objects and expensive materials also mean much higher final prices, even though the price for labor stays the same. Printer running/maintenance costs gradually increase with printed hours. Similarly, the price can increase even with seemingly simple parts, if it needs more of Josef&#;s time (for example drawing the part, manual editing of supports etc.).
We know that there&#;s a lot of things to cover, so this is why we made this handy 3D Printing Price Calculator! It&#;s incredibly easy to use: just fill in the data and it will give you the result immediately! You can set every necessary attribute there and you can share your results with other people. The calculator can also import existing G-codes, saving you even more time. Give it a go!
Do you use 3D printing to make a living? Share your experience with pricing and general thoughts in the comment section &#; we&#;re sure that many others will find it useful!
Happy printing!
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