Independent metal AM
LPBF and binder jetting need different cost models.
A printing-stage comparison omits the steps that turn a build into an accepted metal part.
Follow the complete workflow
For LPBF, evaluate the qualified laser powder-bed process and its finishing route. For binder jetting, obtain the supplier’s complete printing, curing or handling, debinding and sintering plan as applicable. Ask how shrinkage, throughput and acceptance are managed for the actual alloy and geometry.
What each process actually does
LPBF fuses metal powder layer by layer with a laser. In the reviewed EOS M 290 documentation, layer values are published per material — 316L at 20, 40 or 80 µm on a 250 × 250 × 325 mm build volume, a useful reference point for the resolution class LPBF is being asked about. OEM ↗ · Source reviewed Binder jetting bonds powder with a binder instead of heat: the reviewed HP Metal Jet S100 configuration describes a production line of printer, build units, curing, powder-management/removal and furnace equipment, and the reviewed Desktop Metal Shop System specification lists 40–100 µm layers with separate depowdering and furnace sintering. OEM ↗ · Source reviewed OEM ↗ · Source reviewed
What public price evidence exists today
HP currently states the Metal Jet S100 platform starts at approximately US$550,000, configuration excluded. OEM ↗ · Source reviewed For the LPBF side, reproduced US federal awards for EOS M290-class mid-size systems ran $528,242–$1,383,580 (2016–2024). Inspect the reproduced records or read the public price evidence summary. Both families remain quote-driven for a configured buy — these records bound the class, they do not price your machine.
Do not transfer rates between processes
Printing throughput, usable build packing and final accepted output are different measurements. Compare complete cycle and yield data for your part; a nominal printing rate cannot determine the cost of finished production.
Calculator scope
The current calculator models LPBF. Binder-jet economics require separate furnace capacity, batch flow and yield modeling; those inputs are not approximated with LPBF defaults.
Review material evidence →