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3D printing gives you the freedom to create bespoke models, products and components and it’s becoming increasingly popular with hobbyists, innovators, and established companies.
Whether you’re planning a one-off project or printing on an industrial scale, one of the most important questions you’ll have is, how much does it cost?
The true answer is: it depends!
There are many factors that affect how much 3D printing costs and – in this article – we’ll explore every aspect to give you an insight into how much your next 3D printing project is likely to set you back.
If you print in 3D on an ad hoc basis, you need a specialist component or a product prototype, our 3D printing service might be the perfect solution. You’ll get the benefit of our expertise when it comes to producing the best quality print and you’ll have access to a wide range of materials and printers to ensure the best result.
What’s more – using our 3D printing service means you won’t have to invest in your own equipment, such as a 3D printer, so it can be a cost-efficient way to access the tech you need.
As you might expect, every 3D printing project is different, which is why pricing is variable. However, we always do our best to ensure everyone has access to cost-effective 3D printing services. Depending on your project, we will charge per print, the amount of time it takes for the 3D print to be completed, and complexity of the print. For example, a print using a Bluecast X10 SLA a Single Stone Engagement Ring will cost £12+Vat.
To find out more or to discuss your project in more detail, click here to message us, and we’ll be able to give you a quote.
It’s helpful to have an understanding of the various factors that can impact the price of 3D printing. Here, we cover some of the essentials you need if you’re going to start 3D printing and give you an idea of how much you’re likely to spend.
To start producing 3D models, a 3D printer is certainly essential! However, there are many different types of 3D printing and, therefore, a whole array of 3D printers. Amongst the most popular are resin printers and FDM printers.
So, you’ll need to consider what type of models you’ll be making, rather than deciding which type of 3D printer to buy based solely on the price.
Check out our guide on the best 3D resin printers!
The type of printer you have will determine what type of materials you need to produce 3D models. If you have a FDM printer, for example, you’ll need to purchase filaments which are melted via the printer and placed layer-by-layer to create the final product.
Although filaments are relatively cheap compared to other types of 3D materials, it’s important to remember that you’ll need to purchase numerous colours (if your designs contain more than one shade).
Similarly, if you own a resin 3D printer, you’ll need to purchase resin in the colours you want to print in. In general, resin does tend to be a little more costly than filament but it’s capable of achieving a higher level of detail. Additionally, the price of resin brands varies from brand to brand, so it’s worth experimenting with different options to find a material and price point that works for you.
In any case, our team will be able to identify the best 3D printing material for your needs.
Depending on the finish you’re after, there may be post-processing work that needs to be incorporated into your project. A print may need to be cured, cleaned and/or polished before it’s usable, for example.
Again, the level of post-processing work is very dependent on the type of 3D printer you use. Filament prints may require more post-processing, whereas resin printers are able to achieve a smoother finish, which reduces the need for extensive post-processing.
The size, scope and complexity of a print also impacts its cost. The larger a model is, for example, the more materials it will use and, therefore, it will be more expensive to produce. Similarly, printing a solid model is likely to be more costly than a hollow version.
In some cases, a 3D model can be printed directly from a CAD file, but it may be worth having a professional check the file before you proceed. Inaccurate file components can lead to costly mistakes, particularly when it comes to complex or large-scale projects. With expert assistance, however, you can ensure optimal results from the first print.
If you’re taking up 3D printing and want to know more about the costs involved, don’t forget to factor in the cost of electricity and maintenance. While these costs do vary depending on energy prices and the need for maintenance or repairs, they are expenses that are unavoidable when you’re printing your own 3D models.
As you can see, there’s lots to consider when answering how much 3D printing costs, but producing 3D prints needn’t be too costly.
Our dedicated 3D printing service is a great way to access the professional expertise and equipment you need to produce 3D models. We’ll work with you to create a custom quote, so you’ll know exactly how much your print will cost before we get started.
As a professional 3D printing service, we have access to a range of printers and materials, which means we can help you achieve the best quality output. Want to know more? Get in touch with our team now on +44 (0) 800 689 0719 or click here to message us.
