MATERIAL & PROCESS FOCUS

CNC Aluminum Machining

The industry standard for lightweight, high-strength parts. We precision machine aluminum alloys to create custom components for a vast range of demanding applications, delivered with speed and accuracy.

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A precisely CNC milled aluminum housing with a smooth surface finish

The Versatile Workhorse of Modern Manufacturing

Aluminum is one of the most widely used metals in manufacturing due to its exceptional balance of properties. Its inherent advantages make it a top choice for both prototypes and production parts.

Excellent Machinability

Aluminum is very easy to machine, allowing for high cutting speeds, long tool life, and fast material removal rates, which contributes to lower part costs.

High Strength-to-Weight Ratio

It offers a superb strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for applications where reducing mass is critical, such as in aerospace, robotics, and portable devices.

Natural Corrosion Resistance

Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer that resists corrosion in most environments. This can be further enhanced with anodizing or chromate conversion coatings.

Common Aluminum Alloys We Machine

Aluminum 6061-T6: The most popular general-purpose aluminum alloy. It offers good strength, excellent machinability, and great weldability. Ideal for structural components, frames, and many consumer products.
Aluminum 7075-T6: One of the strongest aluminum alloys. It provides significantly higher strength than 6061 and is often used for aerospace components, high-stress brackets, and competitive robotics. It is less machinable and weldable than 6061.
Aluminum 5052: A non-heat-treatable alloy known for its excellent formability and corrosion resistance, particularly in marine environments. Often used in sheet metal fabrication.

A table showing common aluminum alloy grades and their properties

Surface Finishing for Aluminum Parts

Enhance Appearance & Performance

As Machined: The most cost-effective option, showing fine tool marks.
Bead Blasting: Creates a uniform matte or satin texture, hiding tool marks and providing a clean look.
Anodizing (Type II & III): Electrochemically grows a hard, protective oxide layer. Type II offers various colors (black, red, blue) for cosmetic appeal. Type III (Hardcoat) provides extreme wear resistance.
Chromate Conversion Coating (Chem Film): Provides excellent corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity, ideal for grounding or preparing for paint.
Powder Coating: Applies a thick, durable polymer layer for excellent corrosion protection and a wide range of colors/textures.

Aluminum Machining FAQ

What is the difference between 6061 and 7075 aluminum?

6061 is a versatile, general-purpose alloy with good strength, machinability, and weldability. 7075 is a much stronger alloy, ideal for high-stress applications, but it is less machinable and more difficult to weld. The choice depends on the required strength and complexity.

Does anodizing affect aluminum's conductivity?

Yes. Anodizing creates an electrically insulating layer. If your part needs to conduct electricity for grounding or circuit purposes, you must specify that those areas be masked off during the anodizing process.