Materials guide for CNC machining
When selecting the right material for your CNC project, there are several factors to consider.
Make the right choice
We understand that selecting the right material is critical to the success of your project. This guide is designed to help buyers and engineers make an informed choice by providing essential information about different materials and their properties.
Materials groups
Here is an overview of the main material groups we offer. Click on the title of each group for more detailed information and a complete list of available grades.
Note: Our material choices are not limited to the grades or types listed. Please visit the specific material group pages for a complete overview and detailed information.
Aluminum
Aluminum is lightweight, strong and excellent machinability. It has good corrosion resistance and is ideal for applications where weight is a crucial factor.
Key Features:
- Lightweight: About one-third the weight of steel.
- Good Machinability: suitable for complex machining.
- Corrosion resistant: Resistant to oxidation and corrosion.
- Good Conductivity: both thermal and electrical.
Common Grades:
- Aluminum 6061: Versatile alloy with good strength and machinability.
- Aluminum 6082: High strength and excellent corrosion resistance.
Our offerings are not limited to these grades. For a complete overview and specific applications, visit our Aluminum page.
Typical Applications:
- Custom machine parts
- Enclosures and enclosures
- Precision Components
Steel
Steel offers an excellent balance between strength, durability and cost effectiveness. It is suitable for a wide range of applications, from structures to mechanical parts.
Key Features
- High Strength: Suitable for heavy loads.
- Durable: Long service life and wear resistant.
- Versatile: Available in different grades for specific requirements.
Common Grades
- S235JR: General construction steel with good weldability.
- C45: Medium-hard carbon steel for parts requiring wear resistance.
Our offerings are not limited to these grades. For more options, visit our Steel page.
Typical Applications
- Construction parts
- Mechanical parts
- Fasteners
Tool steel
Tool steels are designed for making tools and dies that must withstand high wear and heat.
Key Features
- High Hardness: Remains hard at high temperatures.
- Wear resistance: Resistant to abrasive wear.
- Toughness: resistance to breakage and cracking.
Common Grades
- D2: High wear resistance, air-hardened tool steel.
- O1: Oil-hardened with excellent machinability.
Our offerings are not limited to these grades. For more information, please visit our Tool Steel page.
Typical Applications
- Cutting Tools
- Die
- Molds
Stainless steel (SS)
Stainless steel combines strength with excellent corrosion resistance, ideal for applications in demanding environments.
Key Features
- Corrosion resistant: Resistant to rust and oxidation.
- Hygienic: Easy to clean, suitable for medical and food industry.
- Durable: High strength and abrasion resistance.
Common Grades
- SS 304: Most widely used stainless steel with good general properties.
- SS 316: Improved corrosion resistance, especially against chlorides.
Our offerings are not limited to these grades. Check out all the options on our Stainless Steel page.
Typical Applications
- Medical equipment
- Laboratory Instruments
- Environmental Technology Systems
Titanium
Titanium is known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance, ideal for demanding applications.
Key Features
- Lightweight and Strong: Highest strength-to-weight ratio among metals.
- Corrosion resistant: Resistant to seawater and chemical environments.
- Biocompatible: Suitable for medical implants.
Common Grades
- Grade 2: Pure titanium with good machinability.
- Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V): High strength alloy for critical applications.
Our offerings are not limited to these grades. Check out our Titanium page for all the options.
Typical Applications
- Medical implants
- Aerospace components
- Precision instruments
Copper and Copper alloys
Copper and its alloys offer excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, as well as good machinability.
Key Features
- Excellent Conductivity: Ideal for electrical applications.
- Corrosion resistant: Especially in atmospheric conditions.
- Antimicrobial: Suitable for medical applications.
Common Grades
- E-Cu: Pure copper with maximum conductivity.
- CuZn37 (Brass): Good machinability and aesthetics.
Our offerings are not limited to these grades. For more options, visit our Copper and Copper Alloys page.
Typical Applications
- Electrical components
- Heat Exchangers
- Decorative elements
Plastics
Plastics offer versatility with properties such as light weight, chemical resistance and electrical insulation.
Key Features
- Lightweight: Reduces overall product weight.
- Insulating: Both thermal and electrical.
- Chemical Resistant: Resistant to many chemicals and corrosive substances.
Common Types
- POM (Delrin): High wear resistance and low friction.
- ABS: Good machinability and impact resistance.
- Nylon (PA6, PA66): high strength and abrasion resistance.
Our offer is not limited to these plastics. Discover all the materials on our Plastics page.
Typical Applications
- Enclosures and enclosures
- Technical components
- Prototyping
Our capabilities in materials
With our expertise in CNC milling and CNC turning combined with a wide range of materials and post treatments, you can have both single pieces and large series produced efficiently.
Combine automation with craftsmanship.
Maximum quality at low cost. Customization that suits you.
Service and quality assurance for your project.
We are ready to support and guide you personally.