How to Calculate the Estimated 3D Printing Service Cost

To calculate the estimated cost for your 3D printing service, please follow these steps:

1. Gather Data from Your Slicer Software:
   Use your slicer software (e.g., Cura, Bamboo Studio, ORCA Slicer) to find the required print time and filament weight for your 3D model.

    

2. Enter the Data:
   Input the print time (in hours), the total filament required (in grams), and the quantity of the parts you want to print.

    

3. Select Material Type:
   Choose the correct material type from the list provided.

    

4. Calculate Cost:
   Click the “Calculate Cost” button to get the estimated price in US Dollars.

Material Types and Their Ideal Uses

1. PLA (Polylactic Acid):

   • Physical Specifications: PLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch. It is easy to print, has a low melting temperature, and produces a smooth finish.
   • Ideal Uses: PLA is versatile and widely used for prototyping, educational projects, and general-purpose printing. It is ideal for creating detailed models and parts that do not require high strength or flexibility.

2. PLA+:

   • Physical Specifications: PLA+ offers enhanced strength, durability, and reduced brittleness compared to standard PLA. It also has a slightly higher melting temperature.
   • Ideal Uses: PLA+ is suitable for functional parts, hobbyist models, and applications that need better mechanical properties than regular PLA.

3. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene):

   • Physical Specifications: ABS is a strong, tough, and heat-resistant thermoplastic. It has good impact resistance and can withstand higher temperatures compared to PLA.
   • Ideal Uses: ABS is ideal for automotive parts, electronic enclosures, and applications requiring high durability and impact resistance. It is also suitable for parts that need to be sanded, machined, or painted.

4. Carbon Fiber Nylon:

   • Physical Specifications: This composite material combines the strength and flexibility of nylon with the rigidity and stiffness of carbon fiber. It offers excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength and low weight.
   • Ideal Uses: Carbon Fiber Nylon is perfect for lightweight, strong, and functional parts, often used in aerospace, automotive, and engineering applications. It is ideal for producing high-performance components that require high strength-to-weight ratios.

5. TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane):

   • Physical Specifications: TPU is a flexible, elastic, and durable material that exhibits rubber-like properties. It has good wear and tear resistance and maintains flexibility at various temperatures.
   • Ideal Uses: TPU is commonly used for phone cases, flexible hinges, gaskets, and wearable items. It is suitable for any application requiring flexibility, elasticity, and impact resistance.

6. PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol):

   • Physical Specifications: PETG offers a good balance of strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance. It is more durable than PLA and less brittle than ABS, with excellent layer adhesion and clarity.
   • Ideal Uses: PETG is suitable for mechanical parts, water bottles, and any application requiring durability, chemical resistance, and clarity. It is also ideal for parts exposed to outdoor conditions.