Laser Hourly Cost Estimator
Quickly estimate the true hourly cost of running your laser system.
Enter inputs and calculate to see hourly cost.
Understanding True Hourly Cost
Many shops underestimate their true operating costs. This calculator helps you understand all cost components.
Equipment Depreciation
Spread the equipment purchase cost over its useful life. A $150k laser over 10 years (20,000 total hours) costs $7.50/hour in depreciation. This is a real cost that must be recovered to replace equipment eventually.
Total Power Consumption
Include laser power + chiller + exhaust + control systems. A 6kW laser typically draws ~10kW total system power. At $0.12/kWh, that's $1.20/hour in electricity alone.
Consumables & Maintenance
Nozzles, lenses, protective windows, and regular maintenance add up. Budget $2-5/hour for consumables and $2-4/hour for maintenance reserve. Check our assist gas reference for gas costs.
Overhead Allocation
Facility rent, insurance, utilities, management, and administrative costs. Typical shops allocate $5-15/hour depending on facility size and local costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typical Cost Breakdown Example
6kW Fiber Laser System - Job Shop Environment
Recommended Billing Rate: Add 25-35% profit margin → $61-70/hr minimum. Adjust based on market rates, specialization, and service level.