What factor greatly influences the cost of FDM compared to SLA?

The speed of printing plays a significant role in determining the cost of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) compared to Stereolithography (SLA). FDM printers typically operate at varying speeds based on the complexity and size of the model being printed, which directly affects production time and, consequently, labor costs. Faster printing can reduce the time spent on a project, leading to lower overall costs per part in a production scenario.

In contrast, SLA can be inherently slower due to its layer-by-layer process and the curing of resin. The longer the print time, the higher the operational costs, particularly in terms of machine run-time and material waste if the part fails or requires supports. Therefore, while other factors, such as filament type, part size, and operational settings, influence cost, the speed of printing is a protective measure that directly correlates to operational efficiency and overall expenditure in FDM processes.