Price Ranges for Rapid Prototyping
The cost of rapid prototyping can vary based on factors such as complexity, material used, size of the object, and the technology used. Generally, prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per prototype.
Here are some common rapid prototyping technologies and their estimated price ranges:
Stereolithography (SLA): SLA printers can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $50,000, with materials usually priced around $50 to $300 per liter.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): SLS printing services typically range from $100 to $300 per cubic inch of the model, depending on the material and resolution.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): FDM printers are relatively more affordable, starting from a few hundred dollars for desktop models, with filament costing around $20 to $50 per kilogram.
PolyJet Technology: Prices for PolyJet 3D printing can range from $0.50 to $3 per gram of resin material used, depending on the service provider.
Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS): DMLS services can be quite expensive, with prices typically starting from a few thousand dollars per part due to the high cost of the metal powders used.
These are general estimates, and prices can vary significantly between service providers, materials, and project specifications. It is advisable to request quotes from multiple vendors to compare costs and find the best option for your specific prototyping needs.