Top 5 Metals Used in CNC Machining and Their Applications

 CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining has transformed the manufacturing landscape, offering speed, precision, and consistency in creating complex parts. The success of a CNC machining process doesn’t just depend on the technology—material selection plays an equally vital role.

Metals are among the most commonly machined materials due to their strength, durability, and versatility. Choosing the right metal ensures optimal performance, cost-efficiency, and part longevity. In this article, we'll explore the top five metals used in CNC machining, their properties, and real-world applications.

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1. Aluminum

Why It’s Popular

Aluminum is the most widely used metal in CNC machining. It offers a perfect balance of strength, weight, and corrosion resistance, making it a favorite in industries ranging from aerospace to consumer electronics.

Common Grades

  • 6061: General purpose, widely available

  • 7075: High-strength, aerospace-grade

  • 2024: High fatigue resistance

Applications

  • Aircraft structures

  • Automotive engine parts

  • Bicycle components

  • Consumer electronic housings

Key Benefits

  • Lightweight yet strong

  • High thermal and electrical conductivity

  • Corrosion-resistant

  • Easy to machine with a fine surface finish

Machining Notes

Aluminum machines quickly and cleanly, which helps reduce production time and cost.

2. Stainless Steel

Why It’s Popular

Stainless steel is a go-to material for parts requiring strength and resistance to heat, chemicals, or moisture. It’s commonly used in the medical, food processing, and marine industries.

Common Grades

  • 303: Great machinability

  • 304: Corrosion-resistant, versatile

  • 316: Marine-grade and medical-grade

Applications

  • Surgical tools

  • Marine fittings

  • Industrial machinery parts

  • Food-grade components

Key Benefits

  • Excellent strength and hardness

  • Rust and chemical resistance

  • Maintains properties at high temperatures

Machining Notes

Stainless steel is harder to machine than aluminum, requiring slower feed rates and sharper tooling, but CNC machines handle it efficiently with proper setup.

3. Brass

Why It’s Popular

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is known for its excellent machinability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to corrosion. It’s perfect for applications where visual quality and detail matter.

Common Grades

  • C360: Free-machining brass

Applications

  • Electrical connectors

  • Plumbing fixtures

  • Clock and watch components

  • Musical instruments

Key Benefits

  • Smooth surface finish

  • Great electrical conductivity

  • Minimal tool wear

  • Naturally antimicrobial

Machining Notes

Brass can be machined at high speeds and requires minimal post-processing, making it ideal for intricate designs and fast turnaround.

4. Titanium

Why It’s Popular

Titanium is prized for its strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to extreme environments, including corrosive and high-temperature conditions. It's commonly used in aerospace, defense, and medical applications.

Common Grades

  • Grade 2: Commercially pure

  • Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V): Most commonly used alloy

Applications

  • Aircraft components

  • Surgical implants

  • Military equipment

  • High-performance automotive parts

Key Benefits

  • High strength, low density

  • Biocompatible and corrosion-resistant

  • Excellent for demanding, high-performance uses

Machining Notes

Titanium is tough on tools and generates heat quickly. Slower cutting speeds and specialized tooling are essential for clean and efficient machining.

5. Mild Steel

Why It’s Popular

Mild steel, also known as low-carbon steel, offers an affordable and versatile option for general-purpose machining. It has good mechanical properties and is easy to weld.

Common Grades

  • 1018: High machinability and weldability

  • A36: Structural steel for frames and supports

Applications

  • Frames and chassis

  • Brackets and mounts

  • Agricultural equipment

  • Tools and jigs

Key Benefits

  • Cost-effective

  • Easily available

  • Strong and ductile

Machining Notes

Mild steel is easy to machine and can be used with various cutting tools. It may require surface treatments if corrosion resistance is needed.

Conclusion

Selecting the right metal for your CNC machining project can make or break the performance of your product. Aluminum offers lightweight efficiency, stainless steel provides durability in tough environments, brass delivers precision and beauty, titanium stands up to extreme conditions, and mild steel gives you economy and strength.

Whether you’re prototyping or scaling up for mass production, understanding these materials ensures better decision-making.

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Get your custom parts made with precision, speed, and quality—every time.

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