Basics of CNC Machining Aluminum Parts and Its Advantages

CNC machining is the most commonly used subtractive production technique. In this type of manufacturing process, different types of cutting tools are used to remove material from a solid material to design a part according to a computer-aided design model. You have to start with an oversized material that must be cut away so that the desired part is left.

This production procedure can be used to process both plastics and metals. CNC machining, or computer numerical control machining, involves programming computer software to issue automatic commands to the functions of manufacturing equipment. A variety of complex machinery can be operated using this machining method. Another benefit of this process is that it ensures that three-dimensional cutting is completed through a series of commands.

1.CNC Aluminum Parts

Aluminum is one of the most commonly machined materials due to its excellent mechanical properties. Some of these features include softness, affordability, durability, and its ability to resist corrosion. Precision machined CNC aluminum parts have become common in recent years, especially in military, medical, aerospace, and industrial engineering.

The advantage of aluminum is that it is a versatile material that can be used in various fields. It has excellent features such as being lightweight and durable. Aluminum also requires absolute brilliance, so aluminum can be applied in different fields such as aircraft manufacturing, power generation, and automobile manufacturing. In the automotive production industry, it can be used to make reflectors that are often used in car lights.

CNC aluminum parts are generally cheaper because they can be processed in a short time compared to other metals such as steel. They also do not require additional finishing. Since pure aluminum metal is generally soft, small amounts of zinc, magnesium, copper, and other materials are added to increase its strength. When exposed to the atmosphere, a thin protective layer is formed, which makes it corrosion-resistant and reduces the chances of it rusting on the surface. It has chemical resistance, easy processing capabilities, and also has high strength compared to its weight.

2.Benefits of CNC Aluminum Parts

There are four benefits of CNC machining of aluminum. They include:

①Easy to bend

One of the benefits of machining aluminum CNC parts using CNC machining processes is that they can be easily bent. Unlike steel, aluminum materials can be easily turned during machining because the thickness of aluminum can appropriately utilize various forming methods. The best results can be achieved by stamping and machining to easily obtain aluminum CNC parts in various shapes.

②Easy to process

Another benefit of the aluminum CNC machining process is that the material can be easily manufactured through stamping, folding, and drilling. You can use it to form various shapes of parts according to your needs. The energy used in aluminum machining is much lower compared to steel.

③Resistant to Low Temperatures

Aluminum materials are resistant to low temperatures. It is well known how steel can be delicate especially in welding areas or low temperature environments. Aluminum can be easily machined at low temperatures compared to steel.

④Customized Post-Processing

Aluminum can be made to order as per the requirements of the customer. There are things you can do to give it a perfect custom look. Aluminum alloy CNC parts can be plated with various colors as per your requirements. Some of the colors you can try include black, blue, and green.

Aluminum CNC machining can undergo some changes especially in terms of design and specifications, which gives it the flexibility to transition quickly by initiating new review and approved procedures. Going back to past procedures can be achieved whenever there is a need. Some typical aluminum alloys include Aluminum 2024, Aluminum 5052, Aluminum 7075, Aluminum 6063, and Aluminum 6061.

3.Conclusion

Thanks to the CNC machining process, the fabrication of aluminum parts has become a breeze. The precision obtained when extracting such pieces is the main reason why many find this process useful. Convolutional models can be obtained from the CNC machining process. The simplicity and safety that comes with using this method makes it the best method compared to other methods. You should try CNC machining in the production of aluminum parts and enjoy its benefits and convenience.