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Key Cost Drivers in 3D Printing
Several factors influence the cost of 3D printing, and knowing them helps you get accurate quotes and avoid surprises.
Material Selection & Pricing
Polymers vs. Resins vs. Metals: Standard filaments like PLA or ABS cost $20–$50 per kilogram, while engineering plastics (Nylon, PETG) run $50–$100/kg. Resins start around $80/L, and specialty metal powders can exceed $500/kg.
Support Structures: Some processes (e.g., SLA) consume extra resin or powder to build supports, adding 10–30% more material usage.
Machine Hour & Technology Fees
Printer Type: Entry‑level FDM printers charge $10–$25/hr of machine time; industrial SLS or Metal AM machines can be $75–$150/hr. Complex machines with high-temperature chambers or multi‑laser setups drive the rate higher.
Maintenance & Setup: Automated bed leveling or powder handling systems reduce labor, but higher throughput systems often carry premium overhead costs.
Geometry, Volume & Layer Height
Build Volume: Large parts occupy more of the build chamber and can force longer cycles or require multiple runs.
Layer Height & Detail: Fine resolutions (25–50 microns) take 2–5× longer than coarse settings (100–300 microns), directly impacting time‑based rates.
Infill & Shell Thickness: Denser infill for structural parts increases material and print time.
A 57.94 × 57.94 × 4.5 mm chainmail sample uses Hi3DP’s SLA 3D printing services, starting at just $2.19:
Image Courtesy of Hi3DP
See How Much Does 3D Printing Cost at Hi3DP >>
Pricing Models Explained
|
Model |
How It Works |
Best For |
|
Per‑Gram |
Charged by material used (weight after support removal) |
Small parts, simple geometries |
|
Per‑Hour |
Charged by machine run time (includes setup) |
Complex prints, fine detail |
|
Per‑Part |
Flat rate per geometry (often includes trimming) |
Batch orders, repetitive runs |
|
Combined Rates |
Mix of per‑gram + per‑hour + fixed fees |
Balanced for prototypes |
Per‑Gram vs. Per‑Hour Quotes: If your part is small but highly detailed, a per‑hour model might be more cost-effective than paying for unused builds.
Setup, Minimums & Batch Pricing: Some suppliers impose a minimum fee (e.g., $50) or offer discounted per‑part rates on batches of 10+.
Common Hidden Fees: Beware shipping (especially metal parts), customs duties, extended post‑processing (polishing, plating), and rush service surcharges.
A 57.94 × 57.94 × 4.5 mm chainmail sample uses Hi3DP’s SLS 3D printing services, starting at just $2.19:
Image Courtesy of Hi3DP
See How Much Does 3D Printing Cost at Hi3DP >>
Cost Comparison of Major Processes
|
Process |
Material Cost |
Machine Rate (hr) |
Resolution |
Typical Use Cases |
|
FDM |
$25–$70/kg |
$15–$30 |
100–300 μm |
Form & fit prototypes |
|
SLA (Resin) |
$80–$150/L |
$35–$60 |
25–100 μm |
High‑detail models |
|
SLS (Nylon) |
$60–$120/kg |
$50–$75 |
80–150 μm |
Functional parts, small batches |
|
MJF (Nylon) |
$65–$130/kg |
$60–$90 |
80–120 μm |
Durable, isotropic parts |
|
SLM (Metal) |
$300–$600/kg |
$100–$180 |
20–50 μm |
Aerospace, medical implants |
*Material Cost is the raw feedstock price. Final per‑gram rates may include waste and support material.
*Machine Rate covers electricity, depreciation, and base labor.
*Resolution reflects typical layer thickness.
A 57.94 × 57.94 × 4.5 mm chainmail sample uses Hi3DP’s MJF 3D printing services, starting at just $3.29:
Image Courtesy of Hi3DP
See How Much Does 3D Printing Cost at Hi3DP >>
Matching Process to Your Project Needs
Choosing the right 3D printing service at Hi3DP depends on four questions:
Functional vs. Aesthetic Goals
Visual Proof-of-Concept: SLA or SLS prototypes deliver form and surface finish.
Mechanical Performance: SLS/MJF Nylon or SLM Metal offers superior strength and thermal resistance.
Tolerance, Strength & Material Requirements
Tight tolerances (<±0.1 mm) and fine details call for SLA or DLP.
Flexible or chemical‑resistant parts may require specialized resins or Nylon powders.
Lead Time, Volume & Budget Constraints
Low‑volume, quick‑turn prototypes: SLA (24–48 hr turnaround).
Larger runs of identical parts: MJF (higher throughput, lower per‑part cost).
How to Vet Suppliers & Request Quotes
Sample Parts: Always request a small test print to verify surface finish and dimensional accuracy.
Certifications: Look for ISO 9001 and NADCAP accreditation for critical industries.
Multiple Quotes: Compare at least three suppliers on total landed cost, including shipping and post‑processing.
A 57.94 × 57.94 × 4.5 mm chainmail sample uses Hi3DP’s SLM 3D printing services, starting at just $5.49:
Image Courtesy of Hi3DP
See How Much Does 3D Printing Cost at Hi3DP >>
FAQs
Q: Can I get bulk discounts on 3D printing services?
A: Yes—ordering 20+ identical SLS or MJF parts can reduce per‑part rates. Contact us at hey@hi3dp.com, let's help you find the possible suppliers.
Q: Are there cost differences between resin brands?
A: Premium resins (engineering, clear, or biocompatible) cost 20–50% more than standard photopolymer.
Q: What hidden fees should I watch for?
A: Post‑processing (support removal, polishing), expedited shipping, customs duties on metal parts, and rush‑order surcharges.
Q: How do I get an accurate quote?
A: Upload your STL/STEP file to Hi3DP’s quoting tool, specify material and finish requirements, and receive instant pricing.
