The quotation process at Cubic Inch consists of a few simple elements. Four factors influence the cost of your order.
- Dimensions and volume of parts
- Number of pieces ordered
- Finishing method
- Lead time
In the article below, we will describe exactly how these factors affect the cost of your order and what else you need to get a quote.
Before we start the quote
To get an estimate, of course, you need a project. You can send it to us in the following formats:
- STP
- STL
- OBJ
However, customers often come to us without a project and only have a sample part. In such cases, we must scan the element and then make the necessary modifications to the design to enable printing. This is an additional service that costs about $150, depending on the geometry, and usually takes about five business days.
If you have a 3D design and it was previously designed for traditional technologies (e.g. cutting or casting), our designers still need to check whether it is suitable for 3D printing. There is a chance that the design can be refined and improved for additive manufacturing, potentially reducing cost and enhancing functionality (e.g., by adding inserts or threads).
After this process, the project is accepted, and we can proceed to the valuation, which will depend on four factors:
1. Part volume
The size of the part is the most important factor influencing the cost. When printing, the key factor is how much space a given element takes up in the printing chamber, directly affecting the cost. Below are three examples of objects of different sizes and geometries. Their prices for a single print were:
- $25
- $50
- $500
2. Number of pieces ordered
The price of each order depends on the number of items ordered and the periodicity of orders.
In the case of orders for larger numbers of parts and orders for regular delivery of parts
3. Finishing method
After printing, parts can be finished using several methods. Depending on your preferences, the finish gives a different visual effect, so it is particularly important in projects where the element’s appearance is important (e.g., casing).
The standard method is sandblasting, which can be done with or without graphite. Regardless of the option chosen, sandblasting is included in the standard process and does not affect the quote.
Apart from sandblasting, there are three other options available:
- Immersion dyeing (+10-15%)
- Polyshot (+30-40%)
- Chemical Treatment (+50% to total cost)
These finishes are most often used when the appearance of the elements is important and, for example, greater gloss or very high smoothness of the parts is desired.
You can read more about finishing in this article.
4. Delivery time
The standard lead time for a project approved for printing is five business days, and a standard quote applies within this time frame.
However, in exceptional situations, we can produce parts in a priority timeframe (3 business days), which increases the cost by 30%.
On the other hand, the quote is lower for orders placed well in advance.
Are you ready to send us your project?
If you already have all the information and are ready to place your order, use the form and send the file for a quote.
If you have any questions, you can contact us by phone or e-mail under the same link :)
