The short answer
A small part that needs only an STL mesh is a lighter job than a large cast housing that needs an editable STEP model and a report. Both are "3D scanning", but the time, the equipment and the skill differ, so the cost differs. This page lists what moves the quote so you can judge your own job before you ask.
What decides the cost of 3D scanning
| Driver | Why it changes the quote |
|---|---|
| Part size | A bigger part needs more scanning time and more data to process. Large parts, heavy dies and fixed machines are usually scanned where they stand. |
| Complexity | Freeform surfaces, deep holes, thin walls and fine detail take longer to capture and to clean. |
| Accuracy and tolerance | The tighter the tolerance you need, the more careful the set-up and checking. We confirm the expected accuracy for your part before we start. |
| Surface | Shiny, dark or transparent surfaces can change the method and add preparation. Tell us the material and finish. |
| Output | A mesh (STL, PLY) is quicker than a full CAD model. A STEP model rebuilt from sections and features takes more work than a mesh. An inspection report adds the comparison and the PDF. |
| Scan only, scan to CAD or inspection | Scanning, reverse engineering (scan to CAD) and inspection are different jobs with different effort. See the 3D scanning services we offer. |
| Number of parts | Several parts of the same kind, scanned in one visit, are planned differently from a single part. |
| Turnaround | Inspection reports are normally delivered in 2 to 3 days. If you need a job faster than usual, say so when you ask. |
| File formats | STL or PLY mesh, STEP, IGES or Parasolid CAD, PDF report, or point cloud for buildings. The more finished the file, the more work behind it. |
| Location and travel | Work at our Coimbatore facility is quoted without travel. On-site work adds travel and accommodation, which are quoted separately. |
| Extras | A portable CMM arm for datum-based features or tight dimensions, or a 3D print of the scanned part, are quoted with the job (see CMM inspection services). |
Sample work shown on our website.
Cost by job type, in plain words
| Job | What mainly sets the effort |
|---|---|
| 3D scan of a part to an STL mesh | Part size, surface and number of parts |
| Reverse engineering to STEP CAD | Complexity of the shape and how editable the model must be; see reverse engineering in India |
| Spare part with no drawing | Part complexity, fits and whether it is one part or a set; see spare part reverse engineering |
| Inspection report | Number of features, the CAD or master to compare with, and the tolerances to report |
| On-site scan at your plant | Size and position of the equipment, access, travel and accommodation |
| 3D print from a scan | The scan comes first; printing is quoted as part of that job; see 3D printing from your scan |
Why we quote each job instead of listing prices
A bracket and a car body, a clean machined face and a worn casting, a mesh for reference and a CAD model for production: the same words "3D scan" hide very different amounts of work. A single table of rates cannot show what your job involves. So we look at your part first and give you a written quote for that job. You see the scope, the files you get and the cost before work starts.
How we prepare a quote
- You send the enquiry (see the next section).
- We read it and ask any short questions about the surface, the tolerance or the output.
- We pick the method: handheld blue-laser scanning for small to medium parts, optical-tracking scanning for large parts, a portable CMM arm for datum-based features.
- We send a written quote that states the scope, the files you receive and any travel for on-site work.
- Work starts after you confirm.
How to get an exact quote
A complete enquiry makes the quote exact instead of approximate. Send:
- Two or three clear photos of the part (whole part, the surface and any detail that matters).
- The approximate size (length, width, height) and the material or finish.
- What you want from it: an STL mesh, a STEP CAD model, an inspection report, or a 3D print.
- Your drawing or CAD file if you have one (for an inspection, the CAD to compare with).
- The tolerance or fit that matters, if you know it.
- How many parts, and where they are (our Coimbatore facility or your site; the city).
- When you need the result.
Send a photo and these details or email info@vsharksolutions.com.
How to keep the cost sensible
- Tell us the output you actually need. If a mesh is enough, you do not need a full CAD model.
- Send a drawing or CAD if you have one; it shortens the CAD and inspection work.
- Group parts of the same kind into one enquiry.
- Say early if the part is shiny, dark or very large, so we plan the method.
- Say if an on-site visit can cover more than one part at your plant.
Industries and related pages
The same drivers apply across sectors. See automotive 3D scanning and reverse engineering, mould and die scanning, casting and foundry scanning and industrial machinery and spare parts. In Tamil Nadu? See reverse engineering in Tamil Nadu. In Coimbatore? See 3D scanning services in Coimbatore. Comparing providers? Read how to choose a 3D scanning service. For all services, see 3D scanning services in India and reverse engineering services in India.
About us
- Operating since December 2019, based in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu; we travel to your site across India and serve the UAE as a service area.
- Distributor of JINUOSH Vertex 3D scanners in India, so we know the equipment we use.
- One team for scanning, reverse engineering, scan to CAD and inspection.
- Office hours 9 AM to 7 PM.
Send a photo and a short description of your part for a quote or email info@vsharksolutions.com.
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