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Module 4: Liquid Based 3D Printing Processes

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Describe the steps for cost estimation of an SLA 3D printed component. What factors influence the overall cost?

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Cost Estimation of an SLA 3D Printed Component

Steps

  1. Estimate resin consumption: Determine the volume or mass of model resin and support structures from the slicer.
  2. Calculate resin cost: Multiply the consumed resin quantity by the resin price per unit quantity.
  3. Estimate machine time: Obtain build time from the printer software.
  4. Calculate machine cost: Apply the printer's hourly operating/depreciation and maintenance rate.
  5. Add electricity cost: Estimate energy used during printing and multiply by the applicable tariff.
  6. Add labor: Include setup, resin preparation, platform handling, washing and part removal.
  7. Add post-processing: Include washing, support removal, UV post-curing, sanding and other finishing.
  8. Add overhead/reject allowance: Include facility overhead, consumables and possible failed prints.

Cost factors

Major factors are resin price and volume, support volume, print time, layer height, model orientation, printer depreciation, electricity, labor, cleaning supplies, post-curing and finishing requirements.

Approximate formula:

Total SLA cost = Resin + Machine + Electricity + Labor + Post-processing + Overhead + Reject allowance.

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