Hard metals such as chromium and tungsten are rare in the manufacturing industry. Many metals are soft – but strong enough for manufacturing. This happens because manufacturers add alloys, stretch, bend, and hammer the material.
Non-ferrous and soft metals can easily be cut and are quite easy to machine. One of the most common types of soft material for CNC machining is copper alloy. The most common applications include plating, jewelry-making, and electrical conduits.
Do you want to know more about the best kind of metals for CNC milling? This quick post will tell you more about CNC milled brass, copper, and bronze.
#1 Brass
Brass is one of the best kinds of metal for CNC milling. Brass contains zinc and copper – it’s a metal alloy. The metal is known for its medium hardness, stability, good machinability, and high strength.
The brass alloys do not cause any unnecessary wear and tear on CNC machines like most of the other soft materials. The only challenge you might face is stress-corrosion cracking when brass comes into contact with ammonia-based solutions.
Many industries use brass for ornamental applications, hardware and contacts, lock components, and gears.
#2 Aluminum
Aluminum is also used in various industries. It’s lightweight and has high corrosion resistance. Aluminum is less dense than steel – there is a very low chance that it will crack during CNC machining.
Aluminum forms a layer of aluminum oxide which protects the metal from exposure to oxygen.
One drawback to aluminum is that it may have a gummy buildup when it is being machined or cut.
#3 Copper
Copper is one of the most widely used materials for machining. Many industries choose copper because it is cost-effective for such a versatile metal.
Copper has excellent machinability. It has a good surface finish and thermal conductivity. The metal also fights bacteria.
Most people in the medical industry use copper for faucets, bed rails, and sinks. Even the electronic industry relies on CNC machined copper components for circuit boards and electromagnets.
One challenge with copper is that there is a risk of corrosion when it is exposed to halogens or sulfides.
#4 Bronze
Bronze is easy to machine. It is ideal for use in bushings and bearings. Bronze is a material that produces less heat and friction, which contributes to its longevity.
Bronze has excellent lubricity and does not need the same lubrication as other materials. Bronze is faster to machine than other materials. It is relatively soft as compared to other materials.
Concluding Thoughts
The materials mentioned above are the best for CNC milling. Easy, soft, and fast to machine – these metals are some of the best for machining.