Home > CNC Machining Materials > Metals > Alumimum

CNC Machining Materials

Aluminum CNC Machining

High machinability and ductility, good strength-to-weight ratio, good electrical conductivity, low density and natural corrosion resistance. Always anodized.

All uploads are secure and confidential

Aluminum CNC Machining

Aluminum is a light-weight alloy with excellent strength-to-weight ratio, high thermal and electric conductivity, low density and natural deterioration resistance. It has superb machinability, welding and electroplating residential or commercial properties as well as great corrosion resistance.

Lightweight aluminum is a material that is easy to cut and machine, and aluminum alloys can be quickly, properly grated, pierced, and machined using CNC machining. After machining, lightweight aluminum has a low threat of contortion or issues and is very easy to polish and color.

Aluminum is among the most common materials used in the aerospace, medical, auto and motorcycle industries.

Available Aluminum Subtypes For CNC Machining

SubtypeUltimate tensile strengthYield strengthYoung’s modulus (modulus of elasticity)Elongation at breakCorrosion resistanceMagnetismWeldabilityApplication
Aluminum
6061-T6
260-310 MPa240-270 MPa68 – 74 GPa8-11 %HighNon-magneticHighAutomotive industry Marine industry Electrical fittings Couplings & valvesLearn More
Aluminum
6063
110-210 MPa55-130 MPa68 – 69 GPa8-18 %HighNon-magneticGoodArchitectural products Door and windows frames Pipe and tubes for irrigation systems Electrical componentsLearn More
Aluminum
5052
170-210 MPa70-120 MPa68 – 71 GPa7-20 %GoodNon-magneticHighHydraulic tubes Kitchen appliances Cabinets Small boats Home freezers Aircraft tubes FencingLearn More
Aluminum
7075-T6
520-560 MPa460-470 MPa69 – 76 GPa6-9 %ModerateNon-magneticPoorAircraft and aerospace Marine TransportationLearn More
Aluminum 
2024-T351
395-470 MPa275-310 MPa71 – 73.1 GPa9-15 %PoorNon-magneticGoodAircraft fuselage Commercial & military aircraft Wing tension members Critical Aircraft structuresLearn More
Aluminum
2014
190-245 MPa100-125 MPa72 – 73.3 GPa11 – 16 %PoorNon-magneticFairAerospace & Defense industry Truck framesLearn More
Aluminum
7050
470-530 MPa390-460 MPa70 – 80 GPa5-12 %PoorNon-magneticFairFuselage frames Bulkheads Wing skins Aerospace structures Commercial & military aircraft applicationsLearn More
 

Aluminum CNC Machining Surface Finishes

Aluminum CNC Machining Gallery

Cost-saving Design Tips

1.Design for manufacturing

The first tip to save cost when machining an aluminum alloy part is to follow design-for-manufacturing principles to limit difficult-to-machine features, such as setup numbers, inspection dimensions, tight tolerances, and deep pockets with small radii. 

2.Choose the right alloy

Using the most innovative and pricey alloy might not be needed if the part is just a prototype. 6061 T6 aluminum is a good choice.

FAQs

Aluminum CNC machining is the process of using computer-controlled machines, such as a CNC mill and a CNC lathe, to shape, cut, and finish aluminum parts.

Aluminum is favored for its lightweight, corrosion resistance, and excellent machinability.

Common alloys include 6061, 7075, 5052, and 6063 for specific applications.

Yes, CNC machining can produce tight tolerances in aluminum parts for precision applications. Tight tolerance is up to 0.005mm.

Options include anodizing, powder coating, painting, and more, depending on the desired appearance and function.

Yes, aluminum’s strength-to-weight ratio makes it a common choice in aerospace and automotive applications.

Aluminum machining is cost-effective for high-volume production due to its efficiency and machinability.

Yes, CNC machining allows for the production of intricate and complex aluminum components.

Yes, with appropriate finishes, aluminum parts can endure challenging conditions.

Aluminum is a versatile choice for prototyping due to its ease of machining and availability.

Yes, when medical-grade or food-safe aluminum is used, it’s suitable for these applications.

Designers should consider material selection, tolerances, and the complexity of the part.

Yes, it’s a quick and cost-effective method for producing prototypes.

Let's get your projects started, together.