Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.
Industry News
Estimating CNC Prototyping Cost
CNC prototype costs depend on several interrelated factors:
1. Material Cost
Material type drives price significantly: aluminum (~$5–15/lb) is far cheaper than titanium (~$30–60/lb); plastics like Delrin or PEEK vary widely
Stock size — you pay for the billet, not just the finished part (machining can remove 80–90% of material)
Rule of thumb: material cost is often 10–30% of total part cost
2. Machining Time
This is usually the largest cost driver. Estimate it by breaking down:
Setup time (fixturing, programming): 1–4 hrs, often $75–150/hr
Cycle time (actual cutting): depends on volume removed, tool paths, tolerances
Machine rate: 3-axis mills run $50–100/hr; 5-axis or turning centers $100–200/hr
Quick formula: Cost = (Setup hrs + Cycle hrs) × Machine rate + Material cost
3. Part Complexity
Complexity | Description | Relative Cost |
Low | Simple prismatic parts, few features | 1× |
Medium | Undercuts, multiple setups, tight tolerances | 2–4× |
High | 5-axis features, thin walls, deep pockets | 5–10× |
4. Tolerances & Surface Finish
Standard tolerance (±0.005″) — no premium
Tight tolerance (±0.001″) — adds 20–50%
Mirror finish or anodizing — adds $50–300+ per part
5. Quantity
1–5 prototypes: highest per-unit cost (setup amortized over few parts)
10–50 parts: moderate savings
Online services often have price breaks at 5, 10, 25 units
6. Overhead & Markup
Shops typically add 20–40% overhead (tooling wear, facility, admin) plus 15–30% profit margin.
Practical Estimation Methods
Method A – Quote from online services Use platforms like Xometry, Protolabs, or Hubs — upload your CAD file and get instant quotes. Great for benchmarking.
Method B – Rough rule of thumb For a simple aluminum prototype:
Small part (fits in your hand): $200–800
Medium part (shoe-box size): $500–2,500
Complex/tight tolerance: $1,000–10,000+
Method C – DFM review first Before quoting, review your design for manufacturability:
Avoid deep narrow pockets (high tool wear)
Standardize hole sizes to common drill sizes
Minimize setups (design flat reference surfaces)
Cost Reduction Tips
Simplify geometry where function allows
Relax tolerances on non-critical features
Use standard stock sizes to minimize material waste
Combine features to reduce setups
Consider 3D printing for form/fit checks before CNC