When it comes to 3D printing, there are countless options available in the market. However, not all 3D printers are created equal, especially when it comes to printing with metal materials. One brand that has gained a lot of attention in recent years is Markforged. Known for their state-of-the-art metal 3D printers, Markforged offers a range of models with different capabilities and price points.
In this article, we will delve into the cost of Markforged metal 3D printers and provide a detailed analysis of the initial purchase price, materials and consumables, maintenance and operating costs, software and licensing fees, training and setup costs, and overall cost vs. benefits. By the end, you will have a better understanding of the total cost of ownership for a Markforged metal 3D printer and whether it is a worthwhile investment for your business or personal use.
Introduction to Markforged Metal 3D Printers
Markforged is a US-based company founded in 2013 with a mission to change the way products are designed and manufactured. They specialize in industrial-grade 3D printers that can print with various materials, including metal, carbon fiber, and Kevlar. Their metal 3D printers use a process called metal injection molding (MIM) to produce parts with high strength and accuracy.
Markforged currently offers four metal 3D printer models: Metal X, X7, X5, and X3. The main differences between these models are their build volumes, material compatibility, and price. The Metal X is the largest and most expensive model, while the X3 is the smallest and most affordable option.
Now, let’s dive into the different costs associated with owning a Markforged metal 3D printer.
Initial Purchase Price
The first and most obvious cost when it comes to buying a Markforged metal 3D printer is the initial purchase price. As mentioned earlier, the Metal X is the most expensive model, priced at $99,500. The X7 comes in second with a price tag of $69,500, followed by the X5 at $55,000, and the X3 at $36,000.
In comparison to other industrial-grade metal 3D printers on the market, Markforged’s prices are on the higher end. However, this can be attributed to their advanced technology and superior build quality. Additionally, Markforged offers financing options for their printers, making it easier for businesses to afford them.
Apart from the printer itself, you will also need to factor in the cost of additional accessories such as hot-swappable print beds, build plates, and spare nozzles. These items may not be included in the initial purchase price and can add an extra few thousand dollars to your budget.
Materials and Consumables
One of the main selling points of Markforged metal 3D printers is their ability to print with a wide range of materials, including stainless steel, tool steel, titanium, and copper. Each material has its own unique properties and costs associated with it.
Markforged sells its metal filament in spools, with each spool costing between $200-$600 depending on the material. The amount of filament needed for a project will vary depending on the design and size of the part, but you can expect to spend a few hundred dollars on materials per print.
In addition to the filament, you will also need to purchase consumables such as cleaning fluid and release agent for post-processing. These can add up over time, but they are necessary to keep your printer running smoothly.
Maintenance and Operating Costs
Like any piece of machinery, a 3D printer requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and performance. Markforged offers annual maintenance plans for their printers, which include on-site service, calibration, firmware updates, and 24/7 technical support. The price for these plans varies depending on the model of your printer but can range from $2,000-$5,000 per year.
In terms of operating costs, energy consumption is a major factor to consider. Markforged metal 3D printers use high-powered lasers and motors, leading to higher energy consumption compared to other 3D printers. Depending on your location and energy rates, you can expect to spend an extra few hundred dollars per year on electricity for your printer.
Software and Licensing Fees
To operate a Markforged metal 3D printer, you will need to use their proprietary software called Eiger. This software allows you to design, slice, and monitor your prints. Eiger has a subscription-based pricing model, with monthly fees starting at $50 for basic access and going up to $500 for advanced features. However, if you purchase a Markforged printer, you will receive a free one-year subscription to Eiger.
It’s also worth noting that Eiger is a cloud-based software, meaning your designs and print files will be stored online. If you prefer to have your data stored locally, you can opt for the offline version of Eiger, which has an additional one-time cost of $2,000.
Training and Setup Costs
While Markforged metal 3D printers are known for their user-friendly interfaces, there is still a learning curve when it comes to operating them. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to undergo training to familiarize yourself or your employees with the printer’s capabilities and functions.
Markforged offers training sessions for their printers, which can either be on-site or remote. The price for these sessions varies depending on the model of your printer and the level of training required. On average, you can expect to spend around $1,000 for a one-day training session.
As for setup costs, Markforged provides detailed guidelines and instructions for assembling their printers. However, if you prefer to have an expert handle the setup process, you can hire a technician from Markforged at an additional cost.
Cost vs. Benefits Analysis
Now that we have explored all the different costs associated with owning a Markforged metal 3D printer, it’s time to weigh them against the benefits. The main advantage of using a Markforged printer is its ability to produce strong and accurate parts with metal materials. This makes it a valuable tool for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing.
Additionally, Markforged printers have a high success rate and require minimal post-processing, leading to faster production times and cost savings in the long run. Moreover, their printers come with a one-year warranty, ensuring that any technical issues will be resolved promptly.
However, it’s essential to consider whether metal printing is necessary for your specific needs. If your business does not require high-strength or complex metal parts, investing in a Markforged metal 3D printer may not be the most cost-effective option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of owning a Markforged metal 3D printer goes beyond just the initial purchase price. You also need to factor in the costs of materials and consumables, maintenance and operating fees, software and licensing, training and setup, and ultimately, the cost vs. benefits analysis.
With prices starting at $36,000 and going up to almost $100,000, Markforged metal 3D printers are undoubtedly a significant investment. However, for businesses in certain industries, the advanced capabilities and accuracy of these printers may make them a worthwhile investment. It’s crucial to carefully evaluate your specific needs and budget before making a decision.
