How to Select the Best Materials for CNC Machining?

09 June 2022

Many manufacturing companies today are adopting computer numerical control (CNC) machining in their everyday processes. CNC is essential to modern manufacturing since it maximises pre-programmed software and code controls in manoeuvring the actions of tools and machines.

By using CNC, manufacturers can expect their tools and machines to operate more accurately compared to manual machining. And with their high-quality operation, manufacturers can generate products with zero defects. The integration of pre-programmed software and code controls then allows manufacturers to yield little to no waste throughout their operations. Ultimately, workers will be free from harm as CNC machining can already set a wide range of commands in controlling the tools and machines.

Tools and machines used for CNC can handle almost all materials. But not all applications have similar requirements. And so, if you want to attain the best materials for CNC machining, here are some notable factors that you must consider thoroughly.

Operating Conditions

One of the factors that you must consider in choosing the best materials for CNC machining is the operating conditions. Not all operating environments will boast similar conditions. Some may be continuously exposed to ultraviolet radiation, while others might be in contact with water and heat for a long time. Knowing the conditions of the environment in which the parts will be used can help manufacturers select the right materials for CNC machining.

Nature of Application 

Parts out of CNC machining and even other processes may function differently from one another. So, to ensure that they can be effective in their specific applications, you must opt for materials that can handle their purposes. CNC machining can process almost any material. The only thing that you must do is select the materials that are needed for your industry. Your industry, after all, may require parts that have excellent strength to weight ratio. Others, alternatively, may require flexible objects. Using the right materials can provide you with parts with your desired properties.

Dimensional Stability

When picking the materials for CNC machining, you must opt for those with good dimensional stability. A wide array of materials may respond differently to the forces that are generated by cutting and other machining tools. Without opting for the right materials, they might end up deforming. For applications that require dimensional tolerance, you must opt for materials with great tight tolerances. Otherwise, you may go for materials with less tight tolerances to save time and money.

Overall Machinability

One more factor to consider in choosing the materials for CNC machining is their machinability. Some materials may have excellent properties for your intended applications. But if they cannot be machined easily, you may end up spending more time and money. While you may have specific requirements for your applications, you can still opt for materials that are less machinable than others if they possess reliable properties. Tool steel, for instance, have more strength than aluminium and brass. However, it can be more difficult to process when compared to the two materials.

Some more factors you can consider in choosing your materials include electrical conductivity, material costs, physical appearance, and availability. To know more about CNC machining, you can contact us at Aero Spec Engineering.

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