Several factors influence the cost of 3D printing service. One of these is the amount of materials used. The volume of the part is another factor. The more materials used, the more the cost of the 3D print will be.
Other factors that affect the cost of cheap 3D printing service include the part’s complexity, the technology used, and the post-processing. Complex parts may require specialized printing technologies, while simple parts can be designed and printed using less complicated techniques.
Materials
Some of the cheapest materials include powders and thermoplastics. The cost of these materials will depend on the manufacturer. Some popular 3D printing materials include aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium. Metals and composites are more expensive and will cost two or five times as much as plastics. The final quality of the part will also affect the cost of the 3D print.
Metals and composites are more expensive because they require special technologies to create and finish. The cost of these materials can be hundreds of dollars per kilo. They are also not always available. Using metals can also result in durable parts.
Layer Height
The cost of a 3D print will also depend on the layer height. You will need more layers if you want to print a thick part. In addition, the layer height may affect functionality. A 3D print that has a low layer height will be smoother but will also take longer to produce. In addition, it will require a higher resolution. This is also a factor that affects the appearance of the final product.
3D Printing Method
Other 3D printing technologies include SLS (Selective Laser Sintering), SLA (Stereolithography), and FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling). Each of these technologies has its own costs, varying based on the part’s size and the complexity of the printing process.
For complex parts, the SLS printing process is the most expensive. The technology requires longer set-up times but allows you to reuse the base materials. In addition, it does not require support structures, which helps reduce post-processing. SLS machines can cost up to ten times more than other 3D printing technologies.
For less complex parts, FDM is the cheaper technology. FDM can produce quality prints but is not ideal for intricate parts. MJF is another powder bed fusion technology and is more affordable than SLS. However, the process can be arduous and require much post-processing.
Wrap Up
The cost of 3D printing can vary between a few dollars and thousands of dollars. However, if you are looking for a functional prototype, a 3D printing service like Midwest Designs will provide the best results. Visit their website at www.midwestdesignsllc.com to learn more about their services.