Engineering Best Practices & Pricing Breakdown
Precision job quoting in custom fabrication requires factoring in real consumable depletion, energy tariffs, operator touch time, and machine wear. Relying on simple '3x material cost' rules frequently causes custom makers to operate at a hidden net loss on complex jobs.
By capturing true volumetric yields, machine depreciation schedules, and hourly technician burden rates, this tool ensures sustainable profit margins for commercial workshops and micro-manufacturers.
TPU Shore Hardness & Speed Benchmarks
| Shore Hardness | Typical Print Speed | Application | Spool Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shore 95A (Standard) | 35 - 50 mm/s | Phone cases, Bumpers | $28 - $35 / kg |
| Shore 85A (Soft) | 20 - 30 mm/s | Gaskets, RC Tires | $38 - $48 / kg |
| Shore 60A (Ultra-Soft) | 12 - 18 mm/s | Medical pads, Soft Grips | $55 - $75 / kg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does TPU cost more in machine time?
TPU must be printed at 20-40 mm/s to prevent filament buckling in direct-drive extruders, resulting in 2x-3x longer print duration than rigid plastics.
How to price custom 3D printed gaskets?
Custom replacement gaskets for discontinued machinery should be priced based on value rather than raw grams—often commanding $25-$50 per unit despite only costing $2.50 in TPU.