CNC machining is a great way to create parts without relying too much on the workforce. And aluminium is a popular choice of material for CNC machining due to its density and flexibility. Its popularity has led to various aluminium alloys. It’s always interesting to learn more about the different options available in today’s market.
This article will explain the five most popular aluminium alloys for CNC machining in addition to some details about each alloy and its properties.
Aluminum 6061-T6
At this point, it’s easy to see why 6061-T6 is one of the most popular aluminium alloys on the market and one of the standard grades for CNC machining. It offers a good balance between strength and machinability and tolerances that are typically quite close.
Referred to as an extruded alloy, it is very versatile and easy to machine in the CNC machining industry. Engineers can use this alloy in many applications, such as chassis, bicycle frames, valves, computer parts, etc.
Aluminum 7075-T6
7075-T6 aluminium is widely used by manufacturers in applications with high-stress or high-performance requirements, especially within Aluminium alloys for CNC machining. This grade is considerably stronger and offers excellent corrosion resistance if appropriately treated. Manufacturers use this alloy in aerospace and military industries, with typical applications including aircraft fittings, missile parts, and fuse parts.
However, there are trade-offs to using aluminium 7075-T6. It is more expensive and less flexible than many other grades of aluminium alloys. And this grade of aluminium is more prone to cracking than other grades and has a lower elasticity.
Aluminum 2024-T4
2024-T4 aluminium is a standard aluminium alloy used in sheet, plate, and extrusions for various applications. This alloy is commonly found in welding electrodes and applications where components must have high purity and strength at elevated temperatures. The primary use for 2024-T4 is as an aerospace material.
Generally, you can use this type of alloy to include aircraft fuselage, transport vehicle parts, and wing tension members. However, it can be attacked by acids, alkalis, or seawater. It also has high thermal conductivity, which means it can be heat-treated to form extremely brittle material.
Aluminum MIC 6
It is the best alloy to use to produce Stable and high-tolerance plates. Aluminium MIC 6 has a specific combination of alloy and casting methods, which is why it comes in a unique category.
This metal has higher strength-to-weight ratios, excellent accuracy, good elasticity, and excellent thermal stability while remaining relatively easy to machine compared with other aluminium alloys.
There is one drawback to this alloy. MIC 6 threads aren’t as strong, leading to early thread failure. Engineers should keep this limitation in mind during the material selection phase as a manufacturer.
Aluminum 6082
Aluminium 6082 has a higher tensile strength. Further, it’s exceptionally corrosion-resistant. 6082 aluminium alloy is a good option for manufacturers who want more power at an affordable price.
Aluminium 6082 is promising for general-purpose applications that require an added degree of toughness, especially within Aluminium alloys for CNC machining. Aluminium 6082 material is popular in construction and preferable in bridges, towers, and trusses. However, product designers should remember that it’s daunting to get thin walls using aluminium 6082.
Wrapping Up
Aluminium alloys 2024-T4, 7075-T6, and 6082 are best for high-performance applications, while 6061 and MIC 6 can be used in most cases where an all-purpose aluminium will suffice.
If you’re in the market for a CNC machining vendor, we hope that this guide will help you better understand which alloys are suitable for which applications. These analyses can be helpful to engineers across several industries and regions, helping them make educated decisions on what materials to choose when it comes time to purchase materials for their projects.
Delahenty Machinery
CNC machinery by Delahenty Machinery is the place to go for robust machines that can help your business flourish. Our machines are high-quality, and customer service is our top priority. If it’s time to buy a new CNC machine related to Aluminium alloys for CNC machining, check out our latest listings.