Calculate accurate CNC machining costs for milling, turning, and prototyping. Get instant quotes for materials, machine time, and setup.
Higher quantities reduce setup cost per part
Machine time per part
Fixture, tooling, programming
Accounts for material removed during machining (5%-50%)
End mills, inserts, special tools
Custom jigs, fixtures, vises
Standard business margin: 20-40%
Quick Cost Estimation
$45 - $85 per part
CNC Machining Cost Breakdown
Material Cost
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Per part
Machine Time Cost
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Per part
Labor Cost
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Cost per Part
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Total Project Cost
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Setup Cost per Part
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Cost Optimization Tips
Based on your inputs, here are specific recommendations to reduce machining costs while maintaining quality standards.
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Frequently Asked Quentions
1. How accurate is this CNC machining cost calculator?
Our calculator provides 85-90% accuracy compared to professional machine shop quotes when using realistic inputs. It's based on industry-standard pricing models and accounts for all major cost factors including setup, materials, machine time, and labor.
2. What is a typical hourly rate for CNC machining?
Hourly rates range from $75-$250 depending on machine type: Benchtop 3-axis ($75-95), Industrial 3-axis ($85-120), 5-axis ($120-250), CNC Lathe ($90-150). High-precision or multi-axis machines command premium rates.
3. How does part complexity affect machining costs?
Complexity multipliers: Simple 2.5D parts (1.0x), Moderate 3D contours (1.3x), Complex 3+2 axis (1.7x), Very complex 5-axis simultaneous (2.2x). Each complexity level increases programming time, machine time, and potential for errors.
4. What's the average setup time for CNC machining?
Setup times typically range 1-8 hours: Simple parts (1-2 hours), Moderate complexity (2-4 hours), Complex parts (4-8 hours). Includes fixturing, tool setup, work coordinate systems, and program verification.
5. How much material waste should I factor in?
Waste factors: Simple parts (10-15%), Average complexity (15-25%), Complex parts (25-40%), Very complex (40-50%). Accounts for material removed during machining, tabs, and potential scrap parts.
6. What are typical tolerances for CNC machining?
Standard machining (±0.1mm), Precision (±0.05mm), High precision (±0.025mm), Ultra precision (±0.01mm). Tighter tolerances require slower machining, specialized tools, and increased inspection time, adding 20-100% to costs.
7. How does quantity affect per-part pricing?
High quantities dramatically reduce per-part costs by amortizing setup expenses. Typical reductions: 10 parts (base cost), 100 parts (30-40% less), 1000 parts (50-60% less). Optimal batch sizes depend on part complexity and setup costs.
Common overlooked costs: Special tooling ($50-500), Custom fixtures ($100-1000), Material certification, Surface treatments, Quality inspection, Shipping/packaging, and Rush fees for expedited service.
9. How can I reduce my CNC machining costs?
Cost reduction strategies: Design for manufacturability, Increase batch sizes, Use standard materials, Relax tolerances where possible, Combine multiple parts in single setups, Use appropriate machine types, and Plan for efficient material usage.
10. What's the difference between 3-axis and 5-axis machining costs?
5-axis machining typically costs 50-150% more per hour but can often complete complex parts in less time. For simple parts, 3-axis is more economical. For complex geometries, 5-axis may be cheaper overall despite higher hourly rates.
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