Choosing Machining Materials

Choosing metal or plastic materials for CNC machining can be an embarrassment of riches. Materials abound. As a result, carefully consider part functionality when choosing materials, keeping in mind issues such as environmental factors, mechanical elements, cosmetic considerations, part size, cost, electrical factors etc.
The tips below may help you determine what type of material is best suited for your parts:
● Metals yield higher tolerance parts than plastics.
● Plastics can warp slightly over time due to moisture absorption and heat exposure but are typically less expensive to manufacture than metals.
● Sheet metal parts usually cost less than machined parts.
● Materials that don’t require secondary finishing, such as stainless steel and aluminum, tend to be the most cost-effective options for prototyping and low-volume orders.

Aluminum

Steel

Stainless Steel

Titanium

Brass

Bronze

Copper

Plastics