Aluminum is the most popular material for CNC machining thanks to its excellent machinability, good strength-to-weight ratio and natural corrosion resistance. It is also the most cost-effective metal to machine.
Common Aluminum Grades
| Grade | Key properties | Typical uses |
|---|---|---|
| 6061-T6 | Good strength, excellent machinability, weldable | General parts, brackets, housings |
| 7075-T6 | Very high strength, good fatigue resistance | Aerospace, high-load parts |
| 5052 | Excellent corrosion resistance, formable | Marine, sheet parts, enclosures |
| 2024 | High strength, good fatigue resistance | Structural and aerospace parts |
| 6082 | Similar to 6061, common in Europe | Structural components |
Finishes for Aluminum
Bead blasting, Type II anodizing (clear, black and colors), Type III hard anodizing, chromate conversion, powder coating and polishing. See surface finishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
6061 or 7075 — which should I choose?
6061 is cheaper and easier to machine and suits most parts. Choose 7075 when you need significantly higher strength.
Can anodized aluminum parts hold tight tolerances?
Yes, but anodizing adds a thin layer. We account for it on critical dimensions during the DFM review.
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