Step 2 Score Calculator

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Reviewed by: David Chen, Engineering Consultant | Last Updated: Oct 2023

Optimize your manufacturing workflow with our professional 3d print time calculator. Whether you are estimating job durations for a print farm or calibrating a single machine, this tool helps you solve for printing time, volume, or speed with precision.

3d print time calculator

Enter at least 4 variables to calculate the missing one.

3d print time calculator Formula

$$T = \frac{V}{S \times H \times W \times 60}$$

Where $T$ is time in minutes, $V$ is volume, $S$ is speed, $H$ is layer height, and $W$ is line width.

Source: Prusa Research Knowledge Base, Ultimaker Guides

Variables:

  • Total Print Volume ($V$): The total amount of material to be extruded, including infill and supports.
  • Print Speed ($S$): The movement speed of the print head during extrusion.
  • Layer Height ($H$): The vertical thickness of a single layer.
  • Line Width ($W$): The width of the extruded plastic line (usually slightly wider than the nozzle).
  • Total Time ($T$): The calculated duration of the print job.

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What is 3d print time calculator?

A 3d print time calculator is a mathematical tool used by makers and engineers to estimate how long a 3D print will take based on physical parameters. Unlike slicer software that simulates toolpaths, this calculator uses raw extrusion volume and flow dynamics to provide a theoretical estimate.

Understanding print time is crucial for project scheduling and calculating the cost per part. By adjusting variables like layer height and line width, users can find the “sweet spot” between print quality and production speed.

How to Calculate 3d print time calculator (Example)

  1. Determine the total volume of your object (e.g., 5000 mm³).
  2. Set your desired print speed (e.g., 50 mm/s).
  3. Define your extrusion geometry: Layer Height (0.2 mm) and Line Width (0.4 mm).
  4. Multiply the speed, height, and width to find the flow rate: $50 \times 0.2 \times 0.4 = 4$ mm³/s.
  5. Divide the total volume by the flow rate: $5000 / 4 = 1250$ seconds.
  6. Convert to minutes: $1250 / 60 \approx 20.83$ minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is the actual print time longer than the calculation? Actual time includes “non-printing” movements like travel, retraction, and bed heating which this basic formula does not include.

Does infill percentage affect print time? Yes, higher infill increases the total volume ($V$), which directly increases the print time.

What is the most effective way to reduce print time? Increasing layer height or line width are the most impactful changes, as they increase the volume extruded per second.

Can I solve for speed if I have a target time? Yes, our calculator allows you to leave the speed field blank to find the required velocity to meet a deadline.

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