Consider the best material for CNC machines alongside various other factors. Such as material strength, processability, and specific requirements for particular applications. This article will explore the complete range of materials that CNC machines can process based on their types.
Best Metal Material For CNC Machine
Metal materials are the best material for CNC. Due to this, metal materials possess high strength, thermal resistance, and electrical conductivity. Here are the best type of metal material for CNC Machine :
1. Aluminum (6061, 7075, 2024)
Aluminum is the most versatile material in the manufacturing world. With its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, lightweight properties, corrosion resistance, and attractive appearance, it becomes a valuable material.
Additionally, aluminum material possesses good thermal resistance. Hence, it has heat resistance, making it ideal for use in electronic manufacturing. This quality is present in grades 6061 and 7075. For higher strength, grade 2024 offers increased strength and corrosion resistance. It is typically used for aerospace structural components.
2. Stainless Steel (304, 316)
Despite the greater processing challenge compared to aluminum, CNC machines can still manage this material. Thanks to its consistent properties, stainless steel boasts strong tolerance, wear resistance, and high corrosion resistance. The best grades commonly found in the manufacturing industry include 304 and 316, which manufacturers often process into healthcare tools, automotive equipment, and household items.
3. Carbon Steel dan Alloy Steel
In addition to its abundant availability, which makes it more economical compared to other metal materials, Carbon and Alloy Steel are also compatible with heat treatment but have a relatively rough appearance, making them unsuitable for aesthetic functions.
4. Brass
Thanks to its ease of processing high resistance to corrosion and thermal and electrical conductivity, brass earns its title as a versatile metal. Moreover, it boasts an attractive appearance. It finds common applications in manufacturing water pipes and electrical devices up to vandals.
5. Copper
With its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, copper is widely used in various industries such as electrical cables, magnetic products, and jewelry making. However, this material is susceptible to corrosion in certain environments.
Plastic Material for CNC Machines
While plastic is relatively easy to shape compared to metals, most plastic resins typically cannot be processed by CNC machines due to their low stiffness and melting points. Therefore, we’ve categorized materials that CNC machines can handle.
1. Acetal (POM)
Acetal emerges as a material that is quite easy to process with CNC machines. Its high strength and low friction coefficient make it a top choice in manufacturing. Acetal is typically used in bearings, gears, valves, and even aerospace applications.
Read Also: Pay Attention to How to Operate CNC Machine i5 M4 for Beginners
2. Acrylic (PMMA)
Acrylic serves as a glass substitute owing to its strength and excellent optical clarity. Despite its susceptibility to thermal softening, it remains a favored choice for manufacturing food storage containers and decorative items.
3. Polycarbonate (PC)
Polycarbonate boasts high transparency, making it ideal for safety glasses, medical equipment, and electronic displays. With its high durability, polycarbonate suits high-temperature applications well.
4. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
ABS is a plastic material that is highly suitable for CNC machining. This is because it processes exceptionally well, withstands impacts, and has chemical resistance. In terms of aesthetics, it is also ideal as it lends itself well to coloring.
In the manufacturing world, ABS is often utilized for 3D printing and injection molding. Products that typically employ this material include healthcare tools such as Portable Stadiometers (tools for measuring height), Infantometer Boards (tools for measuring infant length), and scales.
Manufacturing Companies Using ABS Material
PT Solo Abadi Indonesia manufactures healthcare equipment, specifically Anthropometry Kits made from ABS plastic. This material has become the Ministry of Health’s standard for Anthropometry Kits due to its functional aspects and satisfactory safety profile.
PT Solo Abadi Indonesia is also open to collaboration for precision part manufacturing. Contact our admin via WhatsApp or the following link .
