Additive Manufacturing calculator

3D Printed Part Cost Calculator

A printed part cost should combine material, machine time, direct labor, post-processing, scrap allowance, and overhead. This calculator rolls a per-part variable cost and fixed adders into a total cost and cost per part for quoting or production review.

What this calculator does

  • Estimate total printed-part cost from batch quantity, variable cost per part, setup labor, and overhead burden.
  • an estimator or buyer needs a clear cost basis for additive-manufactured parts
  • Returns total job cost and effective cost per accepted printed part.

Formula used

  • Variable part cost = accepted quantity × variable cost per part
  • Total printed part cost = variable part cost + setup/labor + overhead burden

Inputs explained

  • Accepted part quantity: undefined
  • Variable cost per part: undefined
  • Setup and labor cost: undefined
  • Overhead and burden: undefined

How to use the result

  • Use it for service bureau quotes, supplier comparisons, internal transfer prices, and production launch costing.
  • The result is only as complete as the included cost elements; add inspection, heat treatment, freight, warranty, and failure risk when relevant.

Common questions

  • What belongs in variable cost per part? Include material, machine time, and repeatable labor or consumables that scale with each accepted part.
  • Where should failed builds go? Include expected failure cost in overhead, variable cost, or the print failure cost calculator.
  • Can this compare AM to machining? Yes, if both cost models include comparable labor, material, overhead, and quality requirements.
  • How do I use the result? Use cost per part as the basis for quote price, margin review, and make-versus-buy decisions.

Last reviewed 2026-05-12.