Skip to content 
When it comes to CNC machining materials, choosing the right one can make or break the success of your project. Materials behave differently under CNC operations based on hardness, strength, heat resistance, and workability.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best materials for CNC machining projects, provide stats and insights about CNC material properties, and help you master CNC material selection for cost-effective, high-quality outcomes.
What Are Computer Numerical Control Machining Materials?
CNC materials refer to the range of metals and plastics that can be shaped, milled, drilled, or turned using computer numerical control (CNC) machines. These materials need to possess the correct balance of durability, machinability, and thermal stability to guarantee accurate outcomes.
Importance of Material Selection in CNC Machining
Choosing the correct computer-controlled machining materials is essential for:
- A high degree of tolerance
- Reduction of tool wear
- Cutting the cost of production
- Securing functionality of the final product.
According to a study conducted by SME.org, up to 22 percent of CNC manufacturing inefficiencies are caused by improper selection of materials.
Best Materials for CNC Machining Projects
Let’s explore the most commonly used machining materials and when to use them:
1. Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the most popular machinable metals due to its lightweight, corrosion resistance, and excellent machinability. Typical Grades: 6061, 7075. Automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics are the top industries that use this material.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Easily machined
- Excellent thermal qualities
Cons:
- Does not work well in high-stress components
- Aluminum 6061 has a machinability rating of 90% (out of 100), making it a favorite in CNC workshops.
2. Steel
Steel offers superior strength and wear resistance. It is perfect where high structural integrity is needed. Common Grades: 1018, 4140, Stainless Steel 304. The top cutting tools, machine components, and automotive shafts are the best applications for this.
Pros:
- Great tensile strength
- Wear resistance and corrosion resistance
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Macro that needs sharper tooling and lower speeds
3. Plastics
CNC plastic materials are increasingly used for prototyping and lightweight components. They are economical and possess good chemical resistance.
Popular Types:
- ABS
- Delrin (Acetal)
- Nylon
- Polycarbonate
This material is best used in medical devices, consumer electronics, and electronics housing.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Machineable
- Good insulators
Cons:
- Not as durable as metals
Top Heat-Resistant Materials for Machining
For high-temperature applications, heat-resistant materials for machining, like Titanium and Inconel, are top choices.
Titanium
Pros:
- Superb strength-to-weight ratio
- Good elevated corrosion and temperature resistance
- Top applications include industries like Aerospace, medical implants
Inconel
Pros:
- Tolerates high temperatures
- Corrosion-resistant
- Jet engines and heat exchangers are the best way to use these materials.
- These are harder to machine and more important in the high-tech manufacturing sector.
Understanding CNC Material Properties
The properties of each CNC machining material are different. Let’s compare:
| Material | Density (g/cm³) | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Machinability |
| Aluminum 6061 | 2.7 | 310 | Excellent |
| Steel 1018 | 7.87 | 440 | Good |
| ABS Plastic | 1.04 | 40 | Excellent |
| Titanium | 4.5 | 900 | Poor |
| Inconel | 8.4 | 1030 | Poor |
Knowing the CNC material properties helps you match the right material to your engineering or commercial requirements.
Factors to Consider in CNC Material Selection
When choosing your CNC machining materials, consider:
Part Functionality
Will it sustain weight or extreme heat? This must be considered.
Accuracy Precision Requirements
The next most important thing is to analyze the tightness and other things. What are your tolerances? This question must be figured out.
Production Volume
Expensive materials might not be viable in large quantities.
Processing Requirements- After
Other materials may be anodized, painted, or polished more easily.
Cost Efficiency
CNC plastic materials are often used for prototypes to cut costs. For the best outcome, match CNC material selection to both the product’s purpose and your budget.
Expert Tips on Working with Computer Numerical Control Machining Materials
Below are the best tips that can help you make progress in all ways.
- Use carbide tools for hard metals like stainless steel or titanium
- Choose plastics for fast prototyping
- Watch out for chip formation to prevent tool wear
- Use coolants when machining heat-resistant materials for machining
Conclusion: Choose the Right Machining Materials for CNC
So, by now, you’ve got the idea that selecting the correct CNC machining materials is the foundation of a successful machining project. Whether you’re building a prototype or a final product, understanding CNC material properties and the applications of machinable metals and CNC plastic materials will save time, money, and resources.
From aluminum, steel, and plastics to advanced heat-resistant materials, each has a specific role in manufacturing. When you match the material qualities with your project requirements, you will validate efficiency and product integrity.
FAQs About CNC Machining Materials
What are the most commonly used Computer Numeric Control machining materials?
Aluminum, steel, and plastics are the most frequently used materials due to their versatility and machinability.
Are CNC plastic materials durable enough for production?
Yes. While they may not match metals in strength, many CNC plastic materials like Delrin or Nylon are excellent for production-grade parts.
What constitutes a material to be machinable?
Machinability is founded on the ease with which a material can be cut, drilled, or shaped. Factors include hardness, tensile strength, and thermal properties.
Which are the most suitable materials for heat-resistant applications?
Titanium and Inconel are top heat-resistant materials for machining, commonly used in aerospace and high-temperature environments.
What considerations do I make to select the appropriate CNC material?
Consider function, mechanical stress, temperature, cost, and post-processing needs when making your CNC material selection.
