CNC machining has become a highly critical and integral part of any industry.
So what exactly is CNC?
CNC stands for computer numerical control and it is a machine that runs on computer programs. There are many uses as far as CNC machining is concerned.
For example, it can be used for creating prototypes or could also help in making machines that are used as a part for the entire production or manufacturing process.
While many metals are used for CNC machining, aluminum is perhaps the most commonly used materials.
This is because of some obvious advantages and benefits associated with aluminum CNC machining.
They are considered to be one of the best options as far as machinability is concerned.
It is therefore not surprising that aluminum continues to be the preferred material for almost all types of CNC machines needs are concerned.
Why is Aluminum Chosen over Other Materials?
Aluminum is preferred over most other metals because of its wonderful mechanical and thermal properties.
Further, whenever there is a need to shape and create a CNC prototype or a part of the entire manufacturing process, aluminum stands out quite well amongst other such options.
It is extremely easy to shape and when it comes to different types of drilling processes, there is no doubt that aluminum CNC machining till date has been unmatched
It is comparable to other lightweight but scarce options such as titanium alloy sand magnesium alloys.
Some Basic Traits & Characteristics of Aluminum
There is no doubt that aluminum is an extremely lightweight metal. Further, it is also soft, malleable, tractable and most importantly durable and long-lasting.
It has a dull grey or silver colored appearance and the color would depend on the surface roughness of the base metal which is known as bauxite.
However, if you are looking for a metal with magnetic properties, then aluminum may not be the best choice.
It is also non-flammable. It has a melting point of around 640 degrees.
It is preferred over other metals because it is extremely light and has a density of just 2.68
It also is used in the power and electricity industries because aluminum is a very good conductor of electricity.
Since copper is a scarce and expensive metal, aluminum is preferred in the power and electricity industries and other allied industries. Aluminum based CNC machining finds use in a lot of applications and apart from electricity industries, it is also commonly used in medical, aerospace and ATV industries amongst others.
Aluminum CNC machining is also commonly used in Dowels Pins, different types of front panels, housing related construction materials, various medical and prosthetic devices, lighting fixtures, amongst a host of other applications.
The list is quite big and it simply would not be possible to list down each and every one of them.
Advantages of China Aluminum CNC Machining
Here are some advantages for choosing aluminum over other metals when it comes to CNC machining.
Machinability
machinability is one of the main reasons why aluminum if preferred over most other metals. It is a win-win situation for the manufacturers who do the CNC machining and also for the end users. It can easily be chipped and is extremely easy to shape. The process of CNC machining therefore becomes faster, more efficient, and also more cost effective.
Resistant to Corrosion
Generally aluminum is known to possess excellent corrosion properties. However, the levels of corrosion resistance depends on the grade of aluminum that is used for CNC machining. Stronger aluminum may be less resistant to corrosion because it is generally alloyed with copper.
Favorable strength-to-weight ratio
Because of its favorable strength to weight ratio, aluminum is considered to be one of the best metals for CNC machines. It is considered to be an ideal option both for aspect as well as mechanical parts. It is extremely strong and also is very lightweight. This is the reason why it is commonly used in the automobile and also the aerospace industries. Many aircraft fittings and different types of automotive shafts can be machined successfully with the help of aluminum
Electoral conductivity
As mentioned earlier, aluminum is one of the best conductors of electricity after copper. Pure aluminum has an impressive electrical conductivity of around 37.7 million SPMs or Siemens per Meter when electricity is passed through it at room temperature. It scores much better when compared to iron and stainless steel and even some alloys that are used for CNC machining.
Anodizing Potential
Aluminum CNC machine parts are extremely popular in the consumer electronics industry. It has some of the finest aesthetic properties apart from being able to meet the strength to weight ratio demands of the consumer electronics industry. It also is extremely receptive to tints and paints and therefore aluminum CNC machines are capable of being treated with anodization. This is basically a surface finishing procedure. This procedure helps to thicken the final product and also helps to provide it with a protective layer over the base aluminum CNC machine
Recyclability
Recyclability is another reason why aluminum CNC machining is considered to be the best option in almost all major industries and of course small industries. Used aluminum can be recycled and this is not only environment-friendly but also helps the end users to recoup the expenses incurred in CNC machining
There are other metals that are also used as a substitute for aluminum for CNC machining needs. They include steel and stainless steel, magnesium, titanium, copper and brass. However, aluminum CNC machining has some unmistakable benefits that cannot be ignored or substituted.
Why Choose Us
CNCNOW is a professional aluminum cnc machining service provider If you have any aluminum parts to be done, you can always approach us for an instant quote.
We undertake all kinds of aluminum jobs whether it’s 6061-T6, 7075, 6082 5083. Aluminum 2014, Aluminum 2017, Aluminum 2024, Aluminum 5052 We work with all these materials and more.
Similarly, we can undertake any amount of work whether it is one unit or multiple units.
We have a strong design team who knows their job well.
So, you can trust us for the designing part of your aluminum parts job as well. What’s more? With cncnow, you can always rest assured of quality work, timely delivery and competitive pricing.
