Dadesin
Aluminum CNC Machining

CNC Machining for Aluminum Parts

Aluminum CNC machining is one of the most prevalent manufacturing techniques in a variety of industries.

Aluminum CNC machining offers several advantages, including high precision, repeatability, and the ability to create complex geometries.

Rapid Prototyping CNC Machining 5-axis Machining Surface Finishing Sheet Metal Fabrication

Aluminum CNC Machining

Aluminum CNC machining refers to the process of using computer numerical control (CNC) technology to shape and fabricate parts from aluminum materials. Aluminum is a popular choice for CNC machining due to its desirable properties, such as lightweight, high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and excellent machinability. It is widely used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, consumer goods, and more, for manufacturing parts such as enclosures, brackets, heat sinks, fittings, prototypes, and custom components.

We offer a complete Aluminum CNC machining service and can produce complex Aluminum parts with 13 different types of Aluminum. We work with almost every kind of CNC mill and turning center, and are able to machine simple, “as-machined” workholdings to complex, organic geometries with tight tolerances. With our Aluminum CNC machining services, you can apply up to 13 different post-processing / surface finishing options, including bead blasting, anodizing types II and III, powder coating and electroless nickel plating.

Why Choose Dadesin for Aluminum CNC Machining Services

Strict Quality Management

Our inspection instruments include German Zeiss CMM, Wanhao image measuring instrument, Hitachi handheld spectrometer, Mitutoyo roughness measuring instrument, etc.

Our Certification

Dadesin was full certificated by ISO9001:2015, IATF16949:2016.

fast Delivery

Dadesin has 200+ sets of high precision CNC machining centers and we can take your project from engineering design to delivery faster than our competitors.

High-precision & tight tolerance

We serve aerospace and medical industries, producing tight-tolerance parts using precise tools and holders for exceptional accuracy.

Aluminum Materials Properties

There are various alloys for aluminum, each denoted by the first number in their classification. The number indicates the main alloying element(s). The ultimate choice of the type of aluminum grade you intend to use depends on your machining projects.

Aluminum 2024-T4
Aluminum 6061-T6
Aluminum 7075-T6
Aluminum 5052
Aluminum MIC6

Aluminum 2024-T4 Properties

Aluminum 2024-T4 is a moderate- to high-strength alloy that offers good fatigue resistance and fracture toughness. Aluminum 2024-T4 isn’t as strong as 7075-T6, but it’s still suitable for aerospace applications.

Tensile Strength Elongation at Break Hardness Density
47,000 PSI 12% Rockwell B75 0.1 lb/cu in

Aluminum 6061-T6 Properties

Aluminum 6061-T6 is one of the most popular aluminum alloys on the market and most manufacturing companies offer it as the standard grade for CNC machining.

Tensile Strength Elongation at Break Hardness Density Maximum Temp McMaster Part Number
35,000 PSI 12.50% Brinell 95 2.768 g/㎤
0.1 lbs / cu. in. 		1080° F 8975K219

Aluminum 7075-T6 Properties

Aluminum 7075-T6 (CNC) is an aerospace-grade material with excellent strength-to-weight ratio and strength and hardness comparable to steels.

Tensile Strength Elongation at Break Hardness Density Maximum Temp McMaster Part Number
68,000 psi 11% Rockwell B86 2.768 g/㎤
0.1 lbs / cu. in. 		380° F 1281t71

Aluminum 5052 Properties

Aluminum 5052 is a strain hardening aluminum alloy with excellent corrosion resistance. Suitable for marine applications. Can be welded.

Tensile Strength Elongation at Break Hardness Density Maximum Temp McMaster Part Number
23,000 psi 8% Brinell 60 2.768 g/㎤
0.1 lbs / cu. in. 		300° F 88895k113

Aluminum MIC6 Properties

Aluminum MIC6 is a light weight material that can be easily machined at high speed and is free from tension, contaminants and porosity.

Tensile Strength Elongation at Break Hardness Density Maximum Temp McMaster Part Number
23,900 psi 3% Brinell 65 2.768 g/㎤
0.1 lbs / cu. in. 		1200° F 86825K721

Aluminum At a Glance

Application Aluminum has a wide range of applications from prototyping to automotive to aerospace.
Strengths Excellent mechanical properties,High accuracy & repeatabillity
Weaknesses Greater geometry restrictions than 3D printing
Lead Time Minimum 3 days; longer for complex or internationally manufactured parts
Price $-$$$
Tolerances Machining tolerances depend on the exact alloy used, but a tolerance of 0.005” is generally achievable.
Wall Thickness Minimum 0.80 mm (~0.03”); may vary depending on alloy and wall thickness-to-planar dimension ratios.
Max part size 200 x 80 x 100 cm

Advantages of Aluminum Machining

Light Weight

With a density of just 2.7 g/cm³, aluminum is ideal for applications requiring reduced weight, enhancing transportation efficiency, usability, and versatility across industries.

Corrosion Resistance

Aluminum's oxide layer provides natural corrosion resistance. Combined with finishes or coatings, it ensures durability and long-lasting performance for your parts.

Conductivity

Aluminum offers excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, making it a versatile material for applications similar to those of copper and other conductors.

Excellent Machinability

Aluminum is highly machinable, making it easy to shape, drill, and fold. This allows for the creation of complex and precise components with efficiency.

Custom Aluminum Parts

Communication equipment housing

Communication equipment housing

Aluminum housing

Aluminum housing

CNC aluminum housing

CNC aluminum housing

Vehicle part

Vehicle part

Aluminum alloy motor housing cover

Aluminum alloy motor housing cover

 
 
 

Aluminum Production with Advanced Manufacturing Processes

For high-volume aluminum part production, combining CNC machining with processes like extrusion, casting, or forging offers better efficiency and functionality. Instead of milling from a solid block, integrating 3-axis, 4-axis, or 5-axis machining with these methods can create complex, high-quality components while leveraging the unique strengths of each process.

With advanced in-house equipment, including 5-axis mills, ZEISS CMMs, and Olympus XRF analyzers, we ensure precise tolerances and verify material specifications for every project. Our cutting tools and efficient chip removal systems guarantee optimal results. Share your CAD files with us to experience our competitive pricing, fast turnaround, and superior quality firsthand. Download Aluminum SGS pdf here.

CNC Machining

Aluminum CNC Machining FAQs

  • What industries commonly use aluminum CNC machining?

    Aluminum CNC machining is widely used in these industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, consumer goods, and more, where lightweight and durable components are required.

  • What tolerances can be achieved with aluminum CNC machining?

    Aluminum CNC machining can achieve tight tolerances, typically ranging from +/- 0.001 inches to +/- 0.005 inches, depending on the specific requirements and capabilities of the CNC machine and tooling.

  • What are the advantages of using aluminum for CNC machining?

    Aluminum offers specific benefits that simplify and improve the process of CNC machining. Many grades of aluminum can be effectively penetrated with cutting tools. Aluminum will chip easily and is relatively easy to shape, making aluminum three times faster to machine than iron or steel.

  • Can complex geometries be produced with aluminum CNC machining?

    Yes, aluminum CNC machining enables the production of complex geometries, including intricate designs, curves, holes, and features, thanks to the precision and versatility of CNC machines.

  • How to reduce aluminum CNC machining cost?

    Evaluate different aluminum alloys and select the most cost-effective option that meets your requirements. Some aluminum alloys may offer similar performance but at a lower cost, helping to reduce material expenses.

  • What is the most common type of aluminum used for CNC milling?

    Aluminum 6061 is the most popular aluminum alloy for CNC milling due to its excellent strength, weldability, and corrosion resistance properties. It’s a versatile and easy-to-machine metal.

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