CNC machining operates through subtractive processes, wherein the feedstock is machined to its
final form by the removal of material. This involves drilling holes, boring lots and pathways, and
shaping metal stock into new material with varying tapers, diameters, and shapes.
In subtractive manufacturing, the achievement of shapes relies on the removal of material, a
distinctive feature when compared to additive manufacturing methods that involve the addition,
layering, and deformation of materials to achieve a specified shape.
It also contrasts with injection molding, where material is injected in a different state of matter
using a mold and formed to a predetermined shape.
Product Details
CNC Machining with Aluminum
Aluminum is an excellent material for CNC machining due to its high machinability, ductility,
and favorable strength-to-weight ratio. It offers outstanding thermal and electrical conductivity,
low density, and inherent resistance to corrosion.
Common Aluminum Materials | |
No. | Properties |
Aluminum 6061-T6 | Aluminum 6061 (CNC) is the most popular aluminum alloy. It has good strength-to-weight ratio, excellent machinability and natural corrosion resistance. |
Aluminum 7075-T6 | Aluminum 7075-T6 (CNC) is an aerospace-grade material with excellent strength-to-weight ratio and strength and hardness comparable to steels. |
Aluminum 6060 | Alloy 6060 offers good strength, relatively good corrosion resistance and is suitable for decorative anodizing. |
Aluminum 6082 | Aluminum 6082 (CNC) has very similar composition and properties to 6061, with slightly higher tensile strength. Compliant with British Standards. |
Aluminum 5083 | Aluminum 5083 (CNC) is a strain hardening aluminum alloy with excellent corrosion resistance. Suitable for marine applications. Can be welded. |
Aluminum 6063 | Aluminum 6063 has good mechanical properties and can be heat treated. Suitable for aerospace applications. Can be welded. |
Aluminum 5052 | Aluminum 5052 is a strain hardening aluminum alloy with excellent corrosion resistance. Suitable for marine applications. Can be welded. |
Aluminum 2024 | Aluminum 2024 is a high-strength alloy with excellent fatigue resistance. Suitable for aerospace applications. |
Aluminum 7050 | Aluminum 7050 has excellent mechanical properties with good ductility, high strength, toughness and good resistance to fatigue. Suitable for aerospace applications. |
Aluminum Finishing and Post-Processing
Aluminum can also be anodized for additional surface protection and aesthetic finishes.
Name | Machining Marks |
Anodizing Type II | Reduced for non-cosmetic, removed on primary surfaces for cosmetic |
Anodizing Type III | Visible under anodizing |
Chromate conversion coating | Visible |
Electroless nickel plating | Reduced but visible |
As machined | Visible, light surface scratches |
Smooth machining | Visible, light surface scratches |
Fine machining | Slightly visible |
Polishing | Removed on primary surfaces |
Bead blasting | Removed for non-cosmetic, removed on primary surfaces for cosmetic |
Brushing | Reduced for non-cosmetic, removed on primary surfaces for cosmetic |
Powder coating | Removed |
Applications of CNC Aluminum Parts
Our extensive production experience, spanning millions of components for diverse applications,
showcases a particular focus and proficiency in the following specialized industries:
1. Aerospace & Aviation: With precision at the forefront, our components meet the rigorous criteria
of the aerospace and aviation sectors, delivering reliability and performance in crucial applications.
2. Automotive: From essential engine components to intricate systems, our proven expertise in
manufacturing high-quality parts significantly contributes to the efficiency and safety of
automotive technologies.
3. Industrial Machinery: Our capabilities extend to the production of components powering
industrial machinery, ensuring durability and precision to meet the multifaceted demands of
manufacturing processes.
4. Consumer Electronics: We excel in crafting components for consumer electronics, actively
contributing to the advancement and functionality of state-of-the-art electronic devices.
5. Robotics & Automation: In the ever-evolving landscape of robotics and automation, our precision
components play a pivotal role, enhancing the seamless operation and efficiency of robotic systems.
6. Medical: Precision takes precedence in the medical industry, and our purpose-designed
components meet the exacting standards of medical applications, fostering continuous progress in
healthcare technology.
Our unwavering dedication to excellence and specialized knowledge within these industries positions
us as a trusted partner, ensuring that our components consistently meet the unique requirements
and standards of each sector.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. What are the minimum and maximum dimensions you can machine?
Our CNC machining services encompass both milling (3-axis, 3+2-axis, and 5-axis) and turning
processes.
For 3/3+2-axis CNC milling, we can machine parts with dimensions up to 2000 x 1500 x 200 mm
(78.7 x 59.0 x 7.8 in.). In the case of 5-axis milling, the maximum part size is 650 x 650 x 300 mm
(25.5 x 25.5 x 11.8 in.).
When it comes to CNC turning, we can handle parts with a maximum diameter of 431 mm (17 in.)
and a length of 990 mm (39 in.). For smaller parts, we recommend a minimum size of around
10 x 10 x 10 mm (0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 in.).
Additionally, feature dimensions should not fall below 0.5 mm. Please note that our platform is
limited to a maximum size of 1000 mm (39 in.) for parts. If you have requirements beyond this
limit, feel free to contact our sales team for specialized assistance.
2. Factors Influencing CNC Machining Costs:
The cost of CNC machining a part is influenced by several key factors, including:
1. Material: Variations in material costs arise as some materials, such as aluminum, are more
cost-effective to machine than others like Inconel due to increased tool wear and slower cutting
speeds.
2. Complexity: Parts with intricate features incur higher machining costs. Complex surface shapes,
for instance, are notably more expensive to machine compared to flat surfaces.
3. Tolerances: Stringent dimensional tolerances escalate machining costs. Specifying unnecessarily
tight tolerances on non-critical features can contribute to increased CNC machining expenses.
4. Surface Finish: Achieving mirror finishes necessitates specialized tooling and machining strategies,
extending machining time and subsequently increasing costs.
5. Quantity: Low-volume production inherently comes at a higher cost per part than large-volume
production. This is because initial setup and programming costs are distributed over a greater number
of parts in large-volume production.
3. What are you shipping terms?
Our standard shipping terms are Ex Works (EXW) for both rapid prototyping and regular production
orders. This implies that once the goods have left our premises, the customer assumes responsibility
for shipping, customs clearance, and all associated fees.
For express shipments, we employ Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU), where the client is accountable for
paying import duty upon the arrival of the goods at the destination.