Selecting the right materials for CNC machining can be a daunting task, especially when the wrong choice can lead to costly errors and project delays. Material selection not only impacts product quality but also influences manufacturing efficiency. Fortunately, understanding material properties and applications can simplify this process—read on to discover how to make informed choices.

Choosing the right materials for CNC machining is crucial to ensure product quality and operational efficiency. This guide explores common materials, selection criteria, and tips to help you navigate your options effectively.

Common Metal for CNC Materials

Common metal materials processed by CNC mainly include the following:

Aluminum 6061

Aluminum material grades encompass a wide range of alloys, each with unique properties and applications, such as Aluminum 6061 is a versatile alloy known for its excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. This material is commonly used in aerospace, automotive, and marine applications due to its lightweight nature and good machinability. It can be easily welded and formed, making it a preferred choice for custom parts. Additionally, Aluminum 6061 is available in various tempers, allowing for specific strength requirements. Its availability and cost-effectiveness further enhance its appeal for CNC machining projects.

Aluminum 7075

Aluminum 7075 is recognized for its high strength-to-weight ratio, making it a go-to choice for applications requiring exceptional durability, such as in military and aerospace industries. This alloy offers superior resistance to stress corrosion cracking and is ideal for applications where weight reduction is critical. However, its machinability is slightly lower than that of 6061, which may lead to increased production costs.

Brass

Brass is a copper-zinc alloy known for its excellent machinability and corrosion resistance. It’s commonly used in the production of fittings, valves, and musical instruments due to its aesthetic appeal and acoustic properties. Brass can be easily shaped and worked, making it ideal for complex CNC machining operations. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties make it suitable for applications in medical devices and plumbing systems.

Magnesium AZ31

Magnesium AZ31 is a lightweight alloy known for its good machinability and strength. It is often used in automotive and aerospace applications where weight reduction is crucial. This material has excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for outdoor and marine environments. However, care must be taken during machining, as magnesium can be flammable when chips are created. Proper cutting tools and techniques are essential for safe processing.

Stainless Steel 303

Stainless Steel 303 is known for its ease of machining and excellent corrosion resistance, making it a popular choice in the food processing and medical industries. This alloy is non-magnetic and can withstand various environmental conditions. While it is slightly less strong than other stainless steels, its machinability makes it a go-to option for precision parts where intricate designs are necessary. When selecting 303, consider its applications and the importance of surface finish.

Stainless Steel 304

Stainless Steel 304 is the most widely used stainless steel alloy due to its excellent corrosion resistance and good formability. It is ideal for applications in chemical processing, food and beverage, and architectural fields. Although it is not as easy to machine as 303, advancements in tooling have made it feasible to work with. Its high strength and durability make it suitable for demanding environments, ensuring a long service life.

Stainless Steel 316

Stainless Steel 316 offers superior corrosion resistance, particularly in harsh environments such as marine applications. Its molybdenum content enhances its resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion. This alloy is often used in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and food processing industries. While machining 316 can be more challenging due to its toughness, proper tooling and techniques can yield excellent results.

Carbon Steel 1045

Carbon Steel 1045 is known for its strength and hardness, making it suitable for applications requiring high tensile strength. This material can be easily machined and is often used in manufacturing gears, shafts, and axles. It is essential to consider the heat treatment process for this steel to achieve desired properties. Its affordability and availability make it a practical choice for various CNC machining projects.

Titanium

Titanium is renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for aerospace and medical applications. However, its machining can be challenging due to its toughness and tendency to work-harden. Specialized tooling and machining strategies are necessary for efficient processing. Despite its higher cost, titanium is often chosen for applications where performance is paramount.

Common Plastic for CNC Materials

CNC machining is widely used in the manufacturing industry for the machining of various materials, among which plastic materials are widely used due to their advantages such as light weight, corrosion resistance, insulation, and low cost. The following are several common plastic materials used in CNC machining:

ABS

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a thermoplastic known for its impact resistance and durability. It is widely used in consumer products, automotive components, and electronic housings. ABS is easy to machine and can be easily colored or finished to achieve desired aesthetics. Its excellent balance of strength and flexibility makes it a popular choice for prototypes and functional parts.

Nylon

Nylon is a versatile engineering thermoplastic known for its strength, toughness, and abrasion resistance. It is commonly used in applications requiring low friction and wear, such as gears, bearings, and bushings. Nylon can absorb moisture, which may affect its dimensional stability, so consider this factor during material selection.

PMMA Acrylic

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), commonly known as acrylic, is a transparent thermoplastic known for its optical clarity and UV resistance. It is often used in applications such as displays, light fixtures, and signage. PMMA is easy to machine and can be polished to achieve a high-gloss finish. Its lightweight nature and shatter resistance make it an ideal alternative to glass in various applications.

UHMWPE

Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) is a durable and low-friction material often used in applications requiring excellent wear resistance. It is commonly found in conveyor systems, medical devices, and marine applications. UHMWPE can be machined into intricate shapes and offers high impact strength. Its chemical resistance and ability to perform in extreme temperatures make it suitable for diverse environments.

PEEK

Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) is a high-performance thermoplastic known for its exceptional thermal stability and chemical resistance. It is often used in aerospace, automotive, and medical applications. PEEK’s high strength and low friction properties make it suitable for demanding applications where performance is critical. Although it can be more challenging to machine, specialized tooling can yield precise and reliable results.

Other CNC Machining Materials

In addition to metals and plastics, other materials such as composites and ceramics are also utilized in CNC machining.

Material Name	Characteristics	Application Areas
Phenolic Resin	Good insulation, heat resistance, corrosion resistance	Electrical, electronic, mechanical, and other fields
Carbon Fiber Composite	High strength, low density, corrosion resistance, high temperature resistance	Aerospace, automotive, sporting goods, and other fields
Glass	High transparency, high hardness, good chemical stability	Optical instruments, glass products, and other fields
Ceramic	High hardness, high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance	Aerospace, medical, chemical, and other fields
Rubber	Good elasticity, wear resistance, chemical corrosion resistance	Automotive, mechanical, electronic, and other fields

How To Choose The Right CNC Machining Materials? Our Step-by-Step Guidelines

Moisture

When selecting materials for CNC machining, consider the moisture levels of the environment where the parts will be used. Certain materials, such as wood and some plastics, can absorb moisture, leading to dimensional changes and decreased performance. Opt for materials with low moisture absorption for applications exposed to varying humidity levels.

Strength

Evaluate the strength requirements of your project. Different materials offer varying levels of tensile strength and toughness. For applications subjected to high stress or load-bearing conditions, choose materials known for their strength properties, such as high-strength aluminum alloys or carbon steels.

Heat

Consider the heat resistance of the materials, especially if the components will be subjected to high temperatures. Certain plastics may deform at elevated temperatures, while metals like titanium and stainless steel maintain their structural integrity under thermal stress. Selecting materials with appropriate thermal properties is crucial for ensuring long-term performance.

Machinability

The ease of machining is a significant factor in material selection. Some materials may be more challenging to work with, requiring specialized tools and techniques. Consider the machinability rating of the materials and choose options that align with your CNC machining capabilities to ensure efficient production.

Cost

Lastly, evaluate the cost implications of your material choices. While high-performance materials may offer superior properties, they often come with increased costs. Balance your project’s requirements with budget constraints to select materials that provide the best value without compromising quality.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right materials for CNC machining is critical for achieving optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.

Are you ready to start your CNC machining project? Contact VMT today to request a free quote and discover how our expert team can help bring your ideas to life with the right materials and precision machining.