CNC Metals & Plastics

CNC Metals

Materials	Description	Price
Aluminum	Lightweight with excellent thermal conductivity, resistant to corrosion, and perfect for intricate designs that require precision.	$
Copper	Known for its superior electrical and thermal conductivity, this malleable metal also has antimicrobial properties, enhancing heat transfer performance.	$$$
Brass	Offers high durability and a distinct golden hue, ideal for robust components that require easy machinability and detailed work.	$$$
Bronze	A strong and highly corrosion-resistant alloy, especially suited for marine environments, ideal for applications like bearings and bushings.	$$$
Steel	A tough, adaptable material with varying hardness levels, making it suitable for a wide array of industrial and structural uses.	$$$
Stainless Steel	Renowned for its exceptional resistance to corrosion and ability to maintain strength at elevated temperatures, commonly used in both aesthetic and functional applications.	$$$
Magnesium	The lightest of the structural metals, it boasts a high strength-to-weight ratio and is easy to machine, making it perfect for weight-sensitive designs.	$$$
Titanium	Known for its remarkable strength-to-weight ratio and excellent corrosion resistance, it's a critical material for aerospace and medical applications.	$$$

CNC Plastics

Materials	Description	Price
ABS	Known for its toughness and impact resistance, ABS is easy to machine and retains good thermal stability, making it an excellent choice for intricate CNC machining projects.	$
PC	Combines exceptional impact strength with crystal-clear transparency. It is heat-resistant and ideal for high-precision components where clarity is essential	$$$
PMMA	Offering superior optical clarity and resistance to UV damage, PMMA is a great option for parts requiring both aesthetic appeal and easy machinability.	$$$
POM	POM stands out for its stiffness and low friction properties, offering excellent dimensional stability and wear resistance—perfect for precision components that require longevity and reliability.	$$$
Nylon	Known for its strength and abrasion resistance, Nylon absorbs moisture and offers high durability. It's especially suitable for creating complex parts with detailed geometries	$$$
PE	With excellent chemical resistance and low friction, PE is easily machinable and shock absorbent, making it a go-to for lightweight, functional components.	$$$
PEEK	One of the most high-performance polymers, PEEK offers remarkable thermal stability, mechanical strength, and chemical resistance, making it ideal for demanding, high-performance applications.	$$$
PP	Resistant to chemicals and fatigue, PP is lightweight, thermally stable, and machinable, ideal for parts that need durability with low mass.	$$$
PTFE	Best known for its low friction and excellent chemical resistance, PTFE is a versatile choice for high-heat and non-stick applications, often used in industries demanding superior lubrication properties.	$$$
PS	Similar to PTFE, PS offers very low friction, high heat resistance, and superior chemical resistance, making it particularly useful for non-stick and low-wear applications.	$$$

FAQs

MOST FREQUENT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q1: What is the difference between CNC plastics and CNC metals?

A1: CNC plastics are typically lighter and offer excellent chemical resistance, making them suitable for applications requiring flexibility and resistance to chemicals. CNC metals, on the other hand, are chosen for their higher strength and heat resistance, making them ideal for more demanding industrial parts.

Q2: Are CNC plastics suitable for high-temperature environments?

A2: Some plastics, such as PTFE (Teflon) and nylon, offer good thermal resistance and can withstand moderate temperatures (up to around 250°C). However, most plastics are not suitable for extreme high-temperature environments. If high-temperature performance is required, metals may be a better choice.

Q3: Which CNC metals are known for their corrosion resistance?

A3: Stainless steel (e.g., 304, 316) and aluminum alloys (e.g., 6061 aluminum) are highly resistant to corrosion and are ideal for applications in marine environments, chemical processing, and other corrosive conditions.

Q4: How can the cost of CNC metal materials be controlled?

A4: Metal materials can be costly, especially high-strength alloys and specialized metals. To control costs, consider selecting materials with a better cost-to-performance ratio (e.g., aluminum alloys instead of titanium), or optimize part designs to reduce material waste

Q5: How does the complexity of the part design affect CNC machining costs?

A5: Complex part designs, whether in metal or plastic, tend to increase machining costs. Intricate geometries require more time, precision, and specialized tooling, which can lead to higher labor and equipment costs. Simplified designs can help reduce overall production costs.

Q6: How do you determine the right material for CNC machining?

A6: When selecting a material, factors such as the product’s operating environment, mechanical properties, machining precision requirements, and cost should be considered. It’s often best to consult with engineers or suppliers to ensure the material is appropriate for the application.

Metals & Plastics