How to calculate cost-per-hour and cost-per-part: A transparent analysis of electricity, nitrogen vs air assist gas, and optical consumables.
Understanding your hourly cost per meter is critical to quoting parts competitively while preserving profit margins. Below is a real-world operating cost model for a 12kW fiber laser cutting 6mm carbon steel and 3mm stainless steel.
Laser source + water chiller + CNC motion system consumes ~28 kWh on a 12kW system ($0.12/kWh = $3.36 / hour).
Oxygen for carbon steel ($0.80/hr) vs Liquid Nitrogen ($12.00/hr) vs High-Pressure Compressed Air ($1.50 / hour).
Protective windows, copper nozzles, ceramic rings, and focal lens replacement averages $0.60 / hour.