Cost is dependent on Material, Tolerance, and Size
Cost is dependent on material. The cost is related to material choice because certain stock materials are more expensive than others. Often higher grades of stock take more time to cut and are therefore more expensive. Stronger materials cause more wear on the mill.
Cost is dependent on tolerance. Tolerances using a CNC milling machine can be as tight as 1 thousandth of an inch. Production tolerances are sometimes acceptable because human error and machine deviances are inevitable. The tighter the tolerances needed, the higher the cost.
Cost is dependent on size.
1. Larger pieces lead to higher fixed cost (Larger Machine)
2. Depending on complexity, parts take longer to machine and therefore cost more in terms of variable costs, including labor, excess material, and wear down.
Machine Costs:
CNC Machine fixed Cost:
For larger models: $45,000 - $150,000
For smaller models: $2,000 - $5,000
CNC Machine variable cost:
Labor: $40/hr or more
Material: $5-$100's