In the printing industry, the use of 3D printers is becoming very common. With the increasing demand for 3D printers, manufacturers have gotten a reason to increase the supply of 3D printers so as to meet the increasing demand. The cost of 3D printers always varies from one to another depending on quite a number of factors. Therefore, before you make any final decision on which one to buy, it’s important that you have an idea of the things that cause the price variations. Below are some of the factors that determine the cost of 3D printers.
Factors that affect the cost of 3D printers
- The technology used
One of the major factors that determine the 3D printer cost is the type of technology that has been used in designing the 3D printer. There are several types of technologies that can be used, such as Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Stereolithography (SLA), and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). When you compare these technologies, you’ll realize that FDM is the cheapest one. 3D printers that have been made with the SLS technology are always considered to be more expensive. At the same time, the filaments that are used with printers made of the SLS technology are equally expensive.
- Lead time and labor needed
The amount of labor that’s needed has a positive impact on the 3D printer cost. In most cases, the price of labor depends on the entire 3D printing process, the type of materials that are being used, and the easiness when you want to acquire parts of the 3D printer. 3D printer parts that give you a smooth surface finish are considered to be expensive. The time an individual takes to finish printing as well plays a major role in determining the cost of the 3D printer. Those that have got a high lead time to make the parts have got relatively higher prices.
- Type of printing materials
At most times, some 3D printers are expensive because of the type of materials that they use when making prints on the object. The cost of the materials is, in most cases, dependent on ease of use, mechanical properties, and manufacturing speed. When choosing printing materials for a 3D printer, it’s advisable that you consider buying the simplest prototyping photopolymer, as this may help you save some cash on the overall 3D printer cost. Stronger materials are a bit expensive.
- The thickness of the layers
The thickness of the wall as well plays an important role in determining the 3D printer cost. Depending on the mechanical properties, it’s evident that different printing materials have got different thickness requirements. When choosing materials for your 3D printer, it’s important that you get to know which thickness to choose. If the thickness of the layer is more, you will be spending a lot of time printing which in the end will increase the amount of energy needed, making you spend more on the electricity bill.
In addition, the current market is filled with 3D printers. When you consider buying a 3D printer for sale, it’s important that you be aware of the fact that the prices do differ from one store to another. Shop well across different stores to be able to get the best price deal. Further, visit the customer reviews section and see what previous customers have to say about the 3D printer. Since the 3D printers have been designed to perform different functions, ensure you know the type of applications you’ll be carrying out and buy one that fits the role. Also, ensure that you buy a 3D printer that has got a warranty Read more
