Some of the Most Common Materials Used in CNC Machining
Mar 31, 2022
CNC machining is a highly repeatable and accurate manufacturing process for creating parts ranging from prototype to high-volume production runs. CNC tooling uses pre-programmed instructions to cut a solid block of material into the desired part.
CNC Machined Components
Some of the most common materials used in CNC machining include:
Aluminum
Aluminum is a cost-effective, versatile material that is easily machined, making it suitable for a wide range of machining projects. It has a good strength-to-weight ratio, and machining for aluminum parts is quicker than other materials. Although it’s weaker than steel, anodizing aluminum adds a hard, protective layer.
Stainless steels
Stainless steel comes in many grades and features great corrosion and wear resistance, high strength, and good ductility. This material is easily machined, welded, and polished, and its desirable features make it ideal for the aerospace and automotive industries.
Steels
In the area of low-alloy steels, we offer you the most common structural steels, free-cutting steels, case-hardening steels and quenched and tempered steels for CNC turning and milling. These are versatile materials with good mechanical properties and low price.
Cast iron
Cast iron is an iron alloy with a high content of carbon and silicon. Cast iron has a lower density than steel, better corrosion resistance as well as higher thermal conductivity.
Copper
Copper is perfect for various automotive applications such as cooling and heating exchanges. Most copper have good machining properties and are very suitable for CNC milling and turning. These materials have excellent sliding properties, good electrical conductivity, good thermal conductivity and high corrosion resistance.
Brass
Brass is easy to machine due to its stability and low strength. Brass is also a good choice for low friction applications because of its electrical conductivity.
Bronze
High strength, good wear and corrosion resistance properties make bronze a versatile metal for machined components. Bronze is made by mixing copper with up to approximately 35% tin and up to 8% lead. The inclusion of lead alloy, which is a soft metal, is what makes it so machinable. Bronze is great for applications such as bearings, bushings, and thrust washers, as well as marine applications on pumps and fittings where corrosion resistance against seawater is required.
POM
POM offers high wear resistance, low friction, and overall durability and toughness. POM is an acetal homopolymer with excellent durability. Its high wear resistance combined with excellent creep and warp resistance make it a good material option for mechanical components and industrial products.
Etone Technology is a contract manufacturer specializing in precision machining for the lighting, security, energy, medical device, energy, aerospace, and industrial markets.
Contact us today to discuss any additional concerns about materials or the machining process.
