What is it that makes CNC machining so impressive and applicable in so many different fields? Well, the answer to that is CNC machines are highly accurate and precise.
Making aluminum prototypes is a very complicated method even though CNC machines are made in a way to make the process simpler. Further, the success of your project and business will depend on which aluminum alloy you select.
In this write-up, we’ll discuss CNC aluminum prototyping thoroughly, its benefits, and its applications. Let’s start….
A Brief Guide to CNC Aluminum Prototyping
CNC machinery is controlled and operated by computer and this procedure is used for the production of molds. Aluminum is a commonly used material for this process because of its features i.e. machinability, mechanical, and thermal. Aluminum is a superior and lightweight metal alloy. CNC aluminum machining can make components for vehicles and many other uses.
Why Should You Choose Aluminum As A Material for CNC Machining?
CNC aluminum machining has been used in many industries and applications over the years to make valuable products like automotive and other lightweight parts.
1. It is easier to make aluminum.
It is easier to make aluminum. You can punch, fold, or drill the equipment to make it work. You can use it to make parts of any shape or size. Aluminum is easy to break up, and CNC machine tools can cut it quickly. The short time frame saves time, and the part will mostly stay the same if it is accessible to the machine.
2. Aluminum has the perfect balance of strength and weight.
Aluminum is easy to machine due to its composition. Strong and light aluminum is ideal. It is utilized in the automotive and space sectors. Aluminum grades have distinct uses. 6061 is used for numerous items, whereas 7075 is used in the aircraft industry and marine applications.
3. Aluminum is relatively inexpensive.
CNC professionals utilize aluminum since it’s cheaper than zinc or copper. More expensive than steel. Aluminum CNC saves money. Hence, it outperforms most CNC materials.
Recycle aluminum. Reusing aluminum saves 90% of its energy. Too much material removed during production creates waste. Recycling trash reduces your carbon impact and enables you to recoup some of your initial investment.
4. It is corrosion resistance.
Aluminum is a nonferrous substance. It indicates that the material will not rust or corrode. The most common aluminum grade, 6061, is resistant to corrosion. It increases the metal’s endurance by making it more resistant to moisture, chemical damage, oxidation, and rust.
Benefits of Aluminum CNC Prototyping
Despite the fact that there are different aluminum alloys with varying degrees of characteristics, there are essential features that apply to practically all of them.
Machinability
Several processes can mold, work, and machine aluminum. Soft and chippable, machine tools can cut it swiftly. It’s cheaper than steel and easier to machine. The machinist and part buyer profit greatly from these traits. Aluminum’s strong machinability reduces deformation during milling. CNC machines can attain higher tolerances, improving precision.
Corrosion resistance
In typical marine and climatic settings, aluminum is scratch- and corrosion-resistant. Anodizing can improve these characteristics. Different aluminum grades that are CNC machined the most frequently have the most resistance.
Strength-to-weight ratio
Aluminium has one-third the density of steel. As a result, it is relatively light. The strength-to-weight ratio of materials refers to this combination of toughness and lightweight. Aluminium’s superior strength-to-weight ratio makes it ideal for prototypes used in various industries, including aerospace and automobile industries.
Electrical conductivity
Pure aluminum conducts 37.7 million siemens in one meter at room temperature. Aluminum alloys are ideal for making electrical components, despite their poor conductivity compared to pure aluminum. If electrical conductivity is not desired in a machined item, aluminum is inappropriate.
Anodization potential
Aluminium is easily anodized, which is a surface finishing treatment that boosts a material’s wear and corrosion resistance. This method also makes it easier to color-machined aluminum pieces.
Easy to Recycling
CNC machining wastes a lot of chips since it is subtractive. Recycling aluminum involves little energy, labor, and money. It’s better for recovering costs or reducing waste.
Alternatives to Aluminum in CNC
There are many metals available in the industry that can be used as an alternative to aluminum:
Brass
Polished brass is a copper-zinc alloy that resembles gold. It’s employed when machining time matters. It can be machined nicely for large orders. This makes it popular in valves and nozzles.
Copper
Copper is identical to aluminum. The sole difference is that it conducts electricity more efficiently. Also, copper at its pure stage is tough to machine. Conversely, you can develop a copper alloy that has the same machinability as aluminum.
Steel and Stainless Steel
CNC machining also uses iron. It’s strong enough for stressful conditions. It can also strengthen bonds. Hot metal doesn’t melt.
Stainless steel resists rust after treatment. Steel’s hardness and weight can be a drawback. Hence, it may be unsuitable for various uses.
Magnesium
Lighter than steel, magnesium is rarely used. The most workable metal is extraordinary. It streamlines machining. Magnesium chips burn easily.
Applications of CNC Aluminum Milling in 5 Industries
Aluminum alloys possess a variety of beneficial qualities. CNC-machined aluminum parts are utilized in multiple enterprises and some of them include:
Aerospace industry: Many aircraft fittings are built of machined aluminum due to its high strength-to-weight ratio;
Automobile: Similar to the aerospace sector, the automotive industry uses aluminum for building a number of parts, including shafts and other components;
Electrical industry: CNC-machined models with high electrical conductivity are often used as electronic components in electrical equipment;
Food and pharmaceutical sectors employ aluminum components extensively since they don’t react with the majority of organic chemicals;
Cryogenics: Aluminum parts are used for cryogenic applications because of their ability to maintain their mechanical qualities at below-freezing temperatures.
Endnote
If you also need products on a large scale using CNC prototyping, turn to Sunrise-Metal. We are providing clients with quality products and genuine services for years. So, contact us now and get ready to take your business to the next level.