Savvy Solutions

CNC Machining

I conducted a study in September 2022 to identify the price for the CNC machining of a simple part from various online suppliers.   The part consisted of a simple 304 stainless hollow cylinder.   Many suppliers offer USA sourced and international sourced pricing.   Typically, the price for international sources was 50% of the USA price, even with taxes and shipping.   However, unless the online supplier assists with the import of the parts, the logistics of importing parts internationally can be expensive and a lot of work.   Many suppliers provide options in terms of a price premium for both USA and international sources to expedite the manufacture of your item.   Lead times can range from one day to 30 days.   The normalized ranking of the suppliers surveyed (low rank = lowest cost) is shown below.  

HS Code 84799070 - Parts, machines, mechanical.   | HS Code 732393 - Trade Statistics, Tariff Rates for Of stainless steel. |

Sheet / Plate Cutting

OSH Cut had the best services and cost was 20% less than competition when evaluated September 2022.   They do thick metal (SS to 0.5 inch) laser cutting of many types of materials.   The general cut tolerance is 0.006 inches.  

Metal 3D Printing

Online Raw Material Costs

$3.9/in^3 for 304 stainless rod / round bar is the average low price (plus shipping).