The optimal application of CNC machining is found in one-off manufacturing tasks and in
low-to-medium volume production scenarios, typically ranging from several hundred to 1000 parts.
For cost-effectiveness, particularly in the production of metal prototypes, CNC machining is highly
recommended. Additionally, when parts demand stringent tolerances, choosing CNC machining
becomes imperative for achieving precision.
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
CNC milling, renowned for its efficiency, accuracy, and the elimination of manual labor, finds
widespread application across diverse industries. Machine shops, offering critical services for
prototypes and full production runs, play a pivotal role in the manufacturing process.
Notably, the electronics industry heavily relies on CNC machines to produce electronic enclosures
and circuit supports. In the commercial sector, CNC cutting heads contribute to the creation of
affordable parts, reducing production costs and saving time.
The oil and gas industry utilizes CNC machines for the production of various components like drill
bits, cylinders, pins, rods, and valves. Similarly, CNC milling tools are indispensable in the medical
industry for creating implants, surgical equipment, and medical devices.
Finally, the aerospace industry benefits significantly from CNC machined parts, utilizing this
technology for the production of complex, customized components essential for aerospace equipment.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. Do you offer other services, like finishing, assembly, packaging, and logistical support?
We offer a complete array of services to ensure a smooth and cost-effective production journey from
start to finish. From finishing operations to logistical support, our capabilities include anodizing,
plating, grinding, finishing, assembly, warehousing, packaging, and just-in-time delivery.
Our goal is to provide a comprehensive and hassle-free production process, freeing up your resources
to focus on your business priorities.
2. What tolerances can achieve?
Tolerance specifications are not one-size-fits-all and are influenced by factors like part size, design
geometry, the number and size of features, material properties, surface finish, and the manufacturing
process. Upon order confirmation, a Design for Manufacturing review is conducted to pinpoint areas
for potential modification to enhance manufacturability.
Clearly indicating critical tolerance areas in your design is beneficial, allowing for adjustments to
streamline production time and costs. General tolerance guidelines are available for CNC machining
in metal and plastic, plastic injection molding, CNC metals and plastic injection molding materials,
metal 3D printing (+/- 0.5mm), and an expected shrinkage rate of +/- 0.15% for vacuum casting.
It is imperative to specify all manufacturing and technical requirements clearly in the 2D drawings
for accurate adherence.
3. What type of design files does We accept for quoting?
To facilitate precise and timely quoting, we only accept 3D CAD files in STL, STEP, or IGES formats.
For 2D drawings containing reference dimensions, please submit them in PDF format.
It is imperative to include comprehensive manufacturing information as part of the technical
documentation. Please be aware that informal communication channels such as Whatsapp, email, etc.,
will not be considered valid for manufacturing purposes.