Cost
Optimization
Reduce your 3D printing costs by up to 60% without compromising quality. Learn proven strategies for material, time, and design optimization.
Key Cost Factors
Understanding what drives 3D printing costs helps you optimize effectively.
Material Usage
The amount of filament consumed during printing
Optimization Tips:
- Use hollow designs with strategic infill
- Optimize wall thickness for strength
- Remove unnecessary internal geometry
- Use lattice structures for lightweight parts
Print Time
Machine time and labor costs
Optimization Tips:
- Optimize layer height for speed vs quality
- Reduce support material requirements
- Use faster print speeds where possible
- Batch multiple parts in single print
Support Material
Additional material needed for overhangs
Optimization Tips:
- Design self-supporting angles (30° or less)
- Use breakaway support features
- Optimize print orientation
- Consider soluble supports for complex parts
Post-Processing
Time and materials for finishing
Optimization Tips:
- Design for minimal post-processing
- Use appropriate surface finishes
- Batch post-processing operations
- Choose materials that require less finishing
Material Choice
Different materials have varying costs
Optimization Tips:
- Use PLA for non-functional parts
- Choose PETG over ABS when possible
- Consider material properties vs cost
- Use recycled or off-brand materials
Design Complexity
Complex designs increase print time and material
Optimization Tips:
- Simplify geometry where possible
- Use standard features and shapes
- Avoid unnecessary details
- Design for manufacturability
Advanced Optimization Strategies
Implement these strategies to achieve maximum cost savings.
Hollow Design
Remove internal material while maintaining strength
Implementation Steps:
- 1Use shell thickness of 1.2-2mm
- 2Add strategic internal supports
- 3Consider infill patterns for strength
- 4Test structural integrity
Lattice Structures
Replace solid material with optimized lattice patterns
Implementation Steps:
- 1Use software like nTopology or Autodesk Netfabb
- 2Optimize lattice density for strength
- 3Consider load paths and stress points
- 4Test mechanical properties
Multi-Part Assembly
Break complex parts into simpler, printable components
Implementation Steps:
- 1Identify natural break points
- 2Design connection features
- 3Consider assembly and disassembly
- 4Optimize each component individually
Infill Optimization
Use appropriate infill patterns and densities
Implementation Steps:
- 1Use 10-20% infill for most parts
- 2Increase infill only where needed
- 3Choose infill patterns for strength
- 4Consider functional requirements
Cost Comparison Example
See how different optimization strategies affect the cost of a typical part.
| Design Approach | Material | Time | Cost | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Solid Design Traditional solid part design | 100g | 4 hours | £15.00 | Baseline |
Hollow Design Hollow with 1.5mm walls | 60g | 3 hours | £10.50 | 30% |
Optimized Design Hollow + optimized infill | 45g | 2.5 hours | £8.25 | 45% |
Lattice Design Advanced lattice structure | 35g | 2 hours | £6.75 | 55% |
Quick Cost-Saving Tips
Implement these simple changes for immediate cost reductions.
Reduce Infill
Use 10-20% infill instead of 100%
Optimize Layer Height
Use 0.3mm layers for faster printing
Batch Printing
Print multiple parts together
Material Choice
Use PLA instead of expensive materials
Hollow Design
Remove unnecessary internal material
Minimize Supports
Design self-supporting angles
Need Help Optimizing Your Costs?
Our experts can help optimize your designs for maximum cost savings. Get professional design review and cost optimization services.