CNC machining is a combination of traditional and modern manufacturing techniques. This process uses a computer numerical control or CNC system to effortlessly cut and shape materials into objects. Without CNC machining, processing materials into intricately shaped and detailed components would be tough to achieve. Moreover, a CNC machine reaches an extremely high level of precision compared to manual labor, and it does this consistently and accurately, despite multiple repetitions of the process. Using Aluminum for CNC Machining Among all materials used for CNC machining, aluminum is among the best options. It is highly machinable, inexpensive, and three or four times faster to machine than steel or titanium. In addition, this material possesses excellent flexibility and an impressive strength-to-weight ratio, making it an ideal choice for making exterior skin panels for vehicles on land, air, and water. Other advantages of using aluminum for CNC machining include the following: Excellent corrosion resistance Outstanding electrical conductivity Resistance to low temperatures Great potential for surface finishing and anodization Recyclability What Types of Aluminum Are Used for CNC Machining? On its own, aluminum is too weak for commercial use. So, to achieve strength, pure molten aluminum is combined with copper, lithium, magnesium, manganese, silicon, and zinc to form an alloy and enhance aluminum’s other properties. Three common alloys are used in aluminum CNC machining: cast aluminum, aluminum lithium, and wrought aluminum alloys. Cast Aluminum Alloy Cast aluminum alloys are affordable, lightweight, versatile, and durable and perform well under high temperatures. This alloy is famously used in the automotive industry for engine parts, housing, steering columns, and structural support. Cast aluminum alloys are inexpensive to produce because they possess a low melting point and can easily be shaped. However, it does have a lower tensile strength, is not as easy to machine, and is more hard-wearing on cutting tools. Aluminum Lithium Alloy The second aluminum alloy used for aluminum CNC machining is aluminum lithium alloy. This alloy is primarily used in aerospace manufacturing due to its lightweight nature, making it the prime choice for lower wing skins, inner wing structures, fuselages, and fan blades for aerial vehicles. Aluminum lithium alloys are also used for race cars and space rockets. The downside to using aluminum lithium alloys for CNC machining is it does not have a high fracture toughness. This means that when this alloy is cracked, it becomes compromised and weak to resist further cracking. Aluminum lithium alloys are also more expensive compared to cast aluminum alloys. Wrought Aluminum Alloy The last but best aluminum alloy for CNC machining is wrought aluminum. Wrought alloys have superior mechanical properties and structural integrity compared to cast aluminum alloys. They are also easier to machine and make for better surface finishes since they are less hard-wearing on the edges of cutting tools. Things To Consider When Choosing a CNC Machining Aluminum Manufacturer Getting acquainted with aluminum CNC machining is only one part of the equation; picking a suitable CNC machining aluminum manufacturer is the more crucial aspect. Choosing service providers for this task is not difficult. Here are four factors to look at when canvassing manufacturers. Long-Term Value Return When picking a CNC machining aluminum manufacturer, the cheapest option is not always the best. Instead, choose a service provider that offers excellent processing results and puts in the time and effort to coordinate with you to meet and surpass your expectations. This meticulousness will save you time and money, so always choose quality over plain affordability. Then, in the long run, you’ll have a partner manufacturer you can rely on to consistently deliver outstanding results. Superior Machining Experience Experience should be factored in when deciding which manufacturer to choose; a long experience providing excellent service is how CNC machining aluminum manufacturers earn their stripes. In addition, the time they have spent in the industry can say a lot about their products. Usually, the longer a manufacturer spends engaged in the CNC machining industry, the more they can amass the necessary skills and experience to meet high standards. Reliable Team and Equipment Before partnering with a machining service provider, always check if they have the equipment and facility to do the job efficiently and deliver on time without sacrificing the quality of the finished products. A manufacturer offering machining services should not only have the necessary skills but should also have machines for milling, lathe grinding, and other processing methods. The best CNC machining aluminum manufacturer should have the proper equipment to handle complex projects. Proof of Quality Standards for Products When choosing a CNC machining aluminum manufacturer, you should pick one that can walk the talk. This means that manufacturers must ensure that the quality of the products they have created for you is up to your standards. A few more essential things to look out for when checking the manufacturer for their quality is if they have quality control methods, including product testing. Choose ProCam Services for Your Machining Needs! We at ProCam Services offer the services you need for CNC machining aluminum and more. Our state-of-the-art, 38,000 sq. ft. full-service machine shop, top-of-the-line equipment, and industry experience ensures that we will get the job done. We also have the right machining equipment to process carbon steel, stainless steel, plastics, and aluminum. Aside from machining services, we also offer tool and die services, fabrication services, a wide selection of specialty coatings and finishes, and custom components for conveyors and special machines! Our process here at ProCam Services is simple. Our goal is to offer you peace of mind that your orders will arrive on time and with the intended quality and specifications. To this end, you may contact us to discuss project details. Next, we will provide you with a fast quote. After which, all you need to do is place your order and sit back as we finish the job for you! To know more about us at ProCam Services L.L.C., contact us today!

Plastics' versatility and multiple benefits make them one of the most valuable engineering materials available today. However, this does not mean you should make plastic prototypes using any machining technique. If the material and method are incompatible, the manufacturing process will not be successful and will not provide the desired results. Each material has distinct characteristics that make it ideal for a particular use. Computer Numerical Control, or CNC machining, is one of the many alternative technologies for making prototypes. It is a computerized manufacturing process in which software and codes control the motion of production equipment, including grinders, lathes, and turning mills. These are used to cut, shape, and create various prototypes and parts. If you use plastic material to design and manufacture parts, they should be CNC machined. There is a plethora of machinable plastic to select from for plastic machining, each with its properties and capabilities. CNC-machined plastic components make excellent prototypes and are readily available. Before machining, select the most suitable and optimal CNC machining plastic for your product. To help you with this, here are the different CNC machining plastic and a quick look at their qualities and capabilities!

ABS

ABS is a thermoplastic polymer with strong impact resistance, low electrical conductivity, and high chemical resistance. Due to its adaptability, ABS is widely beneficial and one of the known plastic compatible with CNC machining. Some applications where ABS is utilized are producing automobile components, toys, and sporting goods. On the other hand, while it is less expensive than other plastic materials, it is essential to note that it cannot sustain high temperatures for an extended period.

Nylon

Nylon is a polyamide polymer and a strong and durable plastic used for various purposes. It has good machinability, moderate flame resistance, and high strength, among other advantages. Nylon tolerates high temperatures and is resistant to wear. In addition, it is chemically and thermally resistant and has the rigidity and strength to withstand deformation under load conditions. These characteristics make it an excellent material for insulators, bearings, wheels, and consumer electronic enclosures. Nylon is a fantastic option for applications that require inexpensive, sturdy, and durable components. Electrical insulation, medical devices, circuit board mounting hardware, vehicle engine compartment components, and aerospace components are the most prevalent applications for nylon. Many of these applications serve as a cost-effective substitute for metals. Additionally, glass-filled nylon is a common material that is excellent for CNC machining.

Acrylic

PMMA (Poly Methyl Methacrylate) plastic is acrylic's chemical makeup, also known as Plexiglass and Luctie. PMMA is an alternative to glass and light pipes since it is durable, transparent, scratch-resistant, and impact-resistant. Additionally, it may be easily glued using acrylic cement. Other popular applications include vehicle light components, light tubes, tanks, display panels, clear enclosures, food storage containers, and lenses or other optical engineering components. If a machined surface requires transparency, it can be polished as an additional post-processing step. Acrylic surfaces that have been machined lose their clarity and acquire a frosted, translucent appearance. As a result, it is generally advisable to indicate whether or not an acrylic component should be left at a stock thickness to preserve transparency.

HDPE

HDPE is an abbreviation for high-density polyethylene. Its crystalline structure makes it naturally opaque and waxy, but it can also be dyed black. HDPE offers excellent chemical resistance, electrical insulation, and a slick surface. It has a low friction coefficient and good low-temperature impact resistance. Additionally, it is inexpensive and durable for CNC-machined plastic parts. HDPE is used in gasoline tanks, plastic bottles, fluid pipes, and other applications. Due to its chemical resistance and slipperiness, it is ideal for producing plugs and seals, but it is also an excellent option for weight-sensitive or electrically sensitive applications. The sole disadvantage of this material for CNC machining would be its low strength, particularly in tension and bending, making it susceptible to stress fractures.

Delrin or POM

Delrin or Polyoxymethylene (POM) is a suitable CNC machining plastic for high-friction, tight-tolerance, or stiff applications. Its reliability and durability make it popular in commercial markets. In addition, Delrin has the advantage of its superior resistance to impact, chemicals, moisture, and fatigue. Delrin is utilized in gears, bearings, bushings, fasteners, assembly jigs, automotive, construction, and electronics components. The downside, however, is that Delrin's slipperiness makes it difficult to glue. The material's inherent tensions make it warp-prone in thin or asymmetrically removed portions. Overheating Delrin or POM can cause harmful off-gassing.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is the most durable plastic for CNC machining. In addition, it is one of the world's most frequently CNC-machined and recycled plastics. It is offered commercially in a black hue, despite its inherent milky-blue transparency, which is glossy. Polycarbonate offers strong impact resistance, rigidity, and temperature stability. It is 250 times more impact-resistant than glass and more resilient than acrylic. This quality makes it suitable for robust, transparent plastic applications, such as CDs, DVDs, mobile phones, and bulletproof glass. Additionally, pure polycarbonate is scratchable and wears quickly, which is why it is post-processed with anti-scratch coatings and vapor polishing to improve wear resistance or optical clarity.

The Bottom Line

In terms of functional qualities, many plastics can replace metals. And CNC machining is the most excellent alternative if you want to work with a challenging plastic material or produce complex prototypes with enhanced structural strength! ProCam Services LLC can create prototypes or mass quantities of sophisticated, precision-machined components with extremely tight tolerances. We process many materials, including plastic, aluminum, and stainless steel. We've been known for precisely meeting deadlines and producing high-quality work for years. Learn more about our services and capabilities by contacting us today!