3D Printing Cost Breakdown: Disintegrating Misinformation

3D printed objects are one of the best gifts you can give to your loved ones. You can create something special out of your imagination. It is also highly customizable and can last long.

However, some are hesitant to have a 3D printing service because of the price. This becomes the norm due to lack of information.

Generally speaking, this service is affordable for the Business-to-Consumer (B2C) arrangement. Most of the produced 3D models here are relatively small. Thus, they only required a small number of materials.

On the other hand, Business-to-Business (B2B) transactions are a bit more expensive. This is because of the scale of projects they are doing. They need larger 3D printed objects. Most of the projects have something to do with prototypes or reverse engineering.

Is There a 3D Printing Cost Per Hour?

This is one of the reasons why people are afraid to get a 3D printed product as a gift. They thought that the more time consumed on the project means more expensive. 

Although it is true that there will be a lot of back and forth conversation between the client and the designer. However, these are all part of the package already. There will be no additional charge for a lengthy chat with the artist.

All these misbeliefs are because of the minimal exposure of 3D service to the market.

Things to Consider in Calculating the 3D Printing Service Price

Now that we know the misconception in the pricing of 3D services, let us take a look at the true breakdown of the cost.

Materials for the 3D Model

This is what affects the price the most. Most of the materials used are variations of plastics. This material is durable and easy to mold.

The resins are more expensive compared to selective laser sintering (SLS) polymers. The reason behind this cost difference is the convenience of each material on the market.

On the other hand, they can also use metals. Obviously, this is more expensive than plastic materials. Metals like aluminum and stainless steel can cost thousands of pesos per kilo.

Design of the 3D Model

There are a lot of things to consider when designing your 3-Dimensional product. Aside from the overall aesthetics, you have to think about the overall build of the image. You have to make sure that all parts have a thick base for more durability.

Of course, having thicker walls means more materials to use. As a result, it can cost you more money. Try to check if you can make the other parts thinner. Making some parts of the mode hollow can also reduce the cost of the design. 

Always try to tweak your design. You can consult your designer to achieve the best look of the 3D model at the most affordable price.

Post Process

The price for the post process depends on how intricate the details in the 3D model. A more sophisticated design means more paints to use.

Additionally, if you want to polish some raw edges of the product then you need additional resins. Giving your finished item an extra “oomph” can cost you an extra amount too.

Perhaps you need to consider the appearance of your 3D item before proceeding. This gives you an estimated total price.

SLS 3D Printer Price: The Most Affordable 3D Printer

SLS 3D printing has a high-powered laser that shapes 3D material into any shape. This technology is perfect for small to large production. Some SLS 3D printers are also compatible with desktop computers for easy use. There are industrial printers too that are available at an affordable price. 

If you want to get the best deal on a 3D printing service then go to 3D2GO. We offer end-to-end 3D service. We can carry out any request from scanning, design, printing, and post-processing.

Furthermore, 3D2GO offers service at an affordable price. We have advanced technologies to print large to small size model. Contact us today for any inquiry.