cnc machining parts allow for the application of various raw materials. The most common ones are Titanium, Aluminum, Steel, and Copper. Various forms of synthetic plastic materials are also used in CNC machining. The materials used in CNC machining are usually carefully selected based on their qualities. This blog discusses the top attributes of CNC machining raw materials.
Properties of CNC machining raw materials
While CNC machining allows the application of various materials to produce parts for different applications, the materials are usually carefully selected. They must meet certain requirements or possess specific qualities to be applied in CNC machining. Below are the common properties of raw materials used in CNC machining;
1. Tensile strength
Tensile strength is the amount of load or stress a material can withstand without stretching or breaking. Therefore, tensile strength refers to a raw material’s resistance to tension. In CNC machining, mechanical loads are applied to the raw materials. Thus, the part must withstand the stress. The materials used in CNC machining are usually tested for tensile strength before they are qualified for application.
2. Endurance strength
Endurance strength refers to a material’s ability to withstand high levels of mechanical or muscular effort over an extended period. CNC machining is a complex manufacturing technique where muscular effort is applied to a workpiece over an extended time. The materials need ample endurance strength to go through the manufacturing technique. On the other hand, the materials also need to withstand other pressures in their application areas.
3. Wear resistance
Wear resistance refers to the working life of a material. It is also known as materials durability. CNC machining is used in industries where durability is critical for safety and cost-efficiency. For instance, parts manufactured in the defense and aerospace industry must withstand wear and tear. This is why CNC materials are usually chosen based on their wear resistance. Aluminum and Titanium are the most commonly applied materials in CNC machining. They are also two of the most robust and most durable metals in existence.
4. General hardness
The overall hardness of the material is also a significant element used to determine a material’s suitability for CNC manufacturing. The material’s general hardness influences its ability to sustain through the manufacturing process. It also affects its suitability in various application areas.
5. Availability
One of the primary reasons CNC machining is a go-to manufacturing technique is that it allows for repeatability. This means that several parts with 100% identical qualities. This would be impossible to achieve if the raw material is not readily available. Therefore, one of the primary properties of CNC machining raw materials is availability. The availability also affects the cost of the raw materials.
Conclusion
The cost of the materials is also highly considered when picking the CNC machining raw materials. The materials used differ depending on the applications of the end products and the industries. More often than not, CNC machining materials are determined by the product designers and engineers. Specialists usually advise on suitable materials. However, this also depends on the industry and the analysis of prototypes.