The price of an extruder machine is highly variable and is determined by a comprehensive set of factors related to its capacity, technical specifications, and included features. A small, basic laboratory-scale single-screw extruder may start in the range of $20,000 to $50,000, while a complete, high-output industrial production line with extensive downstream automation can easily exceed $1,000,000. The primary cost driver is the extruder itself, with price being a function of screw diameter, L/D ratio, and the power of the drive system. A larger machine built for high throughput will command a significantly higher price. The screw and barrel technology is another major factor; a standard nitrided barrel and screw for polyolefins is far less expensive than a bimetallic barrel with a specialized, wear-resistant screw for processing highly abrasive glass-filled or mineral-filled compounds. The level of automation and the sophistication of the control system (from basic PID controllers to advanced PC-based SCADA systems with data logging) represent a substantial portion of the cost. Crucially, the "extruder machine price" often quoted may only be for the central unit. The total system cost must include essential peripherals: the downstream equipment (haul-off, cutter, winder), the upstream dryers and loaders, and the custom-designed die, which can itself cost tens of thousands of dollars. Finally, the manufacturer's brand reputation, engineering support, and the inclusion of services like installation and training also influence the final price, making it essential for buyers to conduct a thorough total cost of ownership analysis.