220 is the example result. Read it using the units and relationship stated below.
3D Print Depreciation uses machine purchase price, salvage value, useful life (years).
Making a print estimate reflect the work behind the part
For 3d print depreciation, the relationship is Result = (([Machine purchase price] − [Salvage value]) ÷ ([Useful life (years)])). The amount depends on the supplied machine purchase price, salvage value, rather than a live market price or a value imported from another record. Filament cost is only one component of a printed part. Machine time, failed jobs, setup, labour and fulfilment can materially change contribution. Compare grams with the usable spool weight, rather than the label price alone.
What the model includes
Result = (([Machine purchase price] − [Salvage value]) ÷ ([Useful life (years)])) Use measured print duration where possible and keep machine-hour charges separate from electricity. If the machine rate already includes energy or labour, entering those amounts again double counts them. The model cannot infer a failure rate from a successful test print. A quote still needs the part requirements and production method. Material choice, orientation and finishing affect quality; this estimate does not establish mechanical suitability or guarantee the print will succeed.
Example with the supplied inputs
Machine purchase price: 1200; Salvage value: 100; Useful life (years): 5. Result: 220. The values are illustrative.
Compare one changed input
Machine purchase price changes from 1200 to 1320. The result becomes 244. All other inputs remain fixed.
Calculation rule
Result = (([Machine purchase price] − [Salvage value]) ÷ ([Useful life (years)]))
Inputs and output
| Input | Example value | Entry convention |
|---|---|---|
| Machine purchase price | 1200 | Use machine purchase price on the currency and period basis shown by the formula. Keep gross amounts, net amounts and unit amounts distinct; the page does not fetch a price or exchange rate. |
| Salvage value | 100 | Use the source quantity represented by salvage value. Keep the counted population fixed and avoid mixing a unit value with a period total. |
| Useful life (years) | 5 | Use the duration unit stated in useful life (years). A time period is not interchangeable with a currency amount or a count of events. |
Output: 220 is the example result. Read it using the units and relationship stated below. Use the formula to distinguish a cash amount, count, percentage or ratio.
How to use the page
Collect the inputs
Gather Machine purchase price, Salvage value, Useful life (years). Use one period and the units shown in the form.
Run the calculation
Enter the values and select the action. The calculation rule above explains how the inputs produce the result.
Compare a scenario
Change Machine purchase price on its own, keeping the other inputs fixed. Read both results before changing another assumption.
Worked example
With the example inputs listed above, the result is 220.
Change Machine purchase price from 1200 to 1320 while keeping every other value fixed. The result becomes 244. This comparison isolates that input; it does not forecast how other variables will respond.
Check the stated formula, units and limits before using the result in a decision.
Keep the displayed formula, input units and model scope with the result. Corrections or questions can be sent through the request section on this page.
Content updated: October 11, 2026