Cost-driven choices. Where to spend. Cost-optimal materials.
Material selection for cost-sensitive applications. Mild steel and 6061 baseline cheap. 316L, titanium premium. Plastic vs metal tradeoffs.
Material selection by cost
Often the right answer. Don't over-spec — wasted cost. Check properties vs requirement before downgrading.
Key principles.
Cheapest metal
A36 mild steel ~$1/kg. Cheapest metal for non-corrosive.
Mainstream
6061 ~$3-5/kg. Best cost-machinability balance.
Mid-priced corrosion
304 ~$5-8/kg. Cost-corrosion balance.
Mid-priced
Brass ~$8-12/kg. Premium aesthetic.
Premium corrosion
316L ~$8-15/kg. Marine grade.
Specialty
Titanium ~$30-60/kg. Aerospace, medical.
Premium superalloy
Inconel ~$80-150/kg. Aerospace, high-temp.
Per type
HDPE $2/kg, ABS $3/kg, PC $5/kg, nylon $4/kg.
Premium
PEEK $80-150/kg, PPS $30/kg. Specialty applications.
FAQ
Often the right answer. Don't over-spec — wasted cost. Check properties vs requirement before downgrading.
For complex parts, machining cost > material. Cheaper material with similar machinability minimal savings.
Bulk material discount 10-30% at volume. Specify large lot pricing in production negotiations.
Standard sizes (round bar, plate) cheapest. Custom shapes 20-50% premium.
Specific functional advantage justifies premium. Titanium for weight + saltwater corrosion. PEEK for chemical + temperature. Etc.
Cheaper material may have lower strength, modulus, fatigue. Verify properties per application.
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