3D Printing Cost Calculator

3D Printing Cost Equation:

\[ C = (V \times D \times P) + (T \times R) + M \]

Volume (V):

cm³

Density (D):

g/cm³

Price per gram (P):

currency/g

Printing Time (T):

hours

Hourly Rate (R):

currency/hour

Markup (M):

currency

Total Cost (C):

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1. What is the 3D Printing Cost Equation?

The 3D printing cost equation calculates the total cost of a 3D printed object by considering material costs, machine time, and additional markup. It helps in pricing 3D printed products accurately.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3D printing cost equation:

\[ C = (V \times D \times P) + (T \times R) + M \]

Where:

\( V \) — Volume of the object (cm³)
\( D \) — Density of the material (g/cm³)
\( P \) — Price per gram of material (currency/g)
\( T \) — Printing time (hours)
\( R \) — Hourly rate (currency/hour)
\( M \) — Additional markup (currency)

Explanation: The equation calculates material cost based on volume and density, adds labor cost based on printing time, and includes any additional markup.

3. Importance of Cost Calculation

Details: Accurate cost calculation is crucial for pricing 3D printed products competitively while ensuring profitability. It helps in budgeting and cost estimation for 3D printing projects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required values in the specified units. Volume and density must be positive values. Time and hourly rate can be zero if no labor cost is involved.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I determine the volume of my 3D model?
A: Most 3D modeling software can calculate volume. Alternatively, slicer software often provides volume information before printing.

Q2: What's a typical density for common 3D printing materials?
A: PLA ~1.25 g/cm³, ABS ~1.04 g/cm³, PETG ~1.27 g/cm³, but check with your specific material's datasheet.

Q3: Should I include electricity costs in the hourly rate?
A: Yes, the hourly rate should include all operational costs (machine depreciation, electricity, maintenance) beyond just labor.

Q4: What should I include in the markup?
A: Markup can include overhead costs, profit margin, post-processing costs, or any other expenses not covered by material and labor.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for different currencies?
A: Yes, as long as you're consistent with your currency units across all inputs, the calculation will work for any currency.