Industrial 3D Printer ROI – Open Material Savings Calculator

Compare open and closed material system operating expenses (OpEx). This calculator converts volumetric filament pricing (cu in., cm³, cc) into cost per kg then provides an annual savings estimate based on your current or projected utilization.

It is important to note that markups are not fixed across polymer classes. Materials with the highest utilization rates, such as commodity and engineering-grade polymers, carry the highest markups — with an average 346% and $227% markup, respectively, compared to open market materials. These markups greatly inflate OPEX and reduce your return on investment. For example, printing just five canisters of proprietary Carbon Fiber Nylon (PA12 CF) a month can cost over $41,000 a year, nearly a $25,000 markup over an open market Carbon Fiber Nylon with better mechanical properties.

Hidden CAPEX/OPEX of Closed Material Systems

Proprietary systems include numerous peripheral costs that may not be immediately apparent. When combined with their inflated cost of materials, your return on investment is greatly diminished. See below for additional expenses you may incur.

• Material Licenses: $30,000 – $80,000 (Unlocks 14 materials and 3 support materials)
• Carbon Fiber Nylon Hardware Upgrade: $10,000
• Open Material license: ~$80,000 – $150,000 lifetime
  • Requires additional $10,000 toolhead
  • EEPROM chips (Single-use): $60 per reel
• Build Sheets (Single-use): $7 – $30
• Nozzles (Change every 6-10 canisters): ~$120 ea.
• Support Removal System: $4,000 – $12,000 (If water soluble support materials are not available)