Additive Manufacturing calculator
Additive Machine Hour Rate Calculator
A realistic machine hour rate prevents underpriced additive jobs. This calculator sums the hourly cost elements that belong to a printer or build cell so machine time can be charged consistently in quotes and cost models.
What this calculator does
- Build an AM machine hourly rate from depreciation, service, facility, material-handling, and operating cost elements.
- a service bureau estimator or finance lead needs a defensible hourly rate for additive machine time
- Returns the hourly machine rate to apply to AM print time.
Formula used
- Machine hour rate = ownership + service + facility + operating burden
- Use the total as the hourly charge for productive or booked machine time.
Inputs explained
- Depreciation/lease cost: undefined
- Service and maintenance: undefined
- Facility and utilities: undefined
- Operator and handling burden: undefined
How to use the result
- Use it for quoting, cost accounting, make-buy analysis, and comparing machine platforms.
- It depends on utilization and accounting policy; idle time, financing, rent, and labor allocation should be reviewed with finance.
Common questions
- Should labor be included here? Include only labor that is treated as machine burden; direct labor can also be added separately in part cost.
- How should depreciation be calculated? Use your approved equipment cost, useful life, utilization hours, and residual value policy.
- Can rates differ by material? Yes. Metal, polymer, and resin machines often need different rates because service and facility costs differ.
- How do I use the rate? Multiply it by planned print hours in the printed part cost or quote price model.
Last reviewed 2026-05-12.