When you need lightweight, strong, and precision-machined components, aluminum is the go-to material for industries from aerospace to robotics. But not all CNC machining is equal—getting high-accuracy aluminum parts requires the right techniques, tools, and expertise.
Why Choose Aluminum for CNC Machining?
Aluminum is a machinist’s dream—it’s lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easier to cut than steel. Here’s why engineers love it:
✔ Lightweight (1/3 the weight of steel)
✔ Excellent strength-to-weight ratio
✔ Natural corrosion resistance (No rust!)
✔ Superior thermal & electrical conductivity
✔ Easier to machine than steel (Faster cutting = lower costs)
Top Industries Using Aluminum CNC Parts:
- Aerospace (Brackets, housings, drone frames)
- Automotive (Engine components, heat sinks)
- Medical (Surgical tools, imaging equipment)
- Consumer Electronics (Laptop bodies, camera mounts)
Aluminum Grades for CNC Machining
Not all aluminum is the same. Here’s a quick guide:
| Grade | Key Features | Best For |
| 6061 | Most common, good strength, weldable | General machining, structural parts |
| 7075 | Aerospace-grade, ultra-strong | High-stress applications |
| 2024 | High fatigue resistance | Aircraft components |
| 5052 | Excellent corrosion resistance | Marine & outdoor use |
| MIC-6 | Stress-relieved, flatness-critical | Jigs, fixtures, optical mounts |
How Precision CNC Milling Works for Aluminum
1: CAD Design
- Engineers create a 3D model (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, etc.)
- Critical dimensions are flagged for tight tolerances (±0.025mm achievable)
2: CAM Programming
- Software generates toolpaths for the CNC machine
- Optimized for speed + precision
3: Machining
- High-speed spindles (10,000+ RPM) make smooth cuts
- Coolant prevents chip buildup & overheating
- Multi-axis milling (3-axis, 4-axis, or 5-axis) for complex shapes
4: Finishing (Optional)
- Bead blasting – Smooth, matte finish
- Anodizing – Adds color & corrosion resistance
- Polishing – Mirror-like shine
Key Benefits of CNC Milled Aluminum Parts
- Tight tolerances (±0.025mm or better)
- Complex geometries (Undercuts, thin walls, deep pockets)
- Faster production than manual machining
- Repeatability (Every part is identical)
Final Thoughts
Aluminum CNC machining is the gold standard for lightweight, high-precision metal parts. Whether you need 10 prototypes or 10,000 production units, understanding the process helps you get better parts at lower costs.
| | CNC Turning, CNC Milling, Laser Cutting, Bending, Spining, Wire Cutting, Stamping, Electric Discharge Machining (EDM), Injection Molding,3D Printing,Rapid Prototype,Moulds etc. |
| | Aluminum: 2000 series, 6000 series, 7075, 5052, etc. |
| Stainlesss steel: SUS303, SUS304, SS316, SS316L, 17-4PH, etc. |
| Steel: 1214L/1215/1045/4140/SCM440/40CrMo, etc. |
| Brass: 260, C360, H59, H60, H62, H63, H65, H68, H70, Bronze, Copper |
| Titanium: Grade F1-F5 |
| Plastic: Acetal/POM/PA/Nylon/PC/PMMA/PVC/PU/Acrylic/ABS/PTFE/PEEK etc. |
| | Anodized, Bead Blasted, Silk Screen, PVD Plating, Zinc/Nickl/Chrome/Titanium Plating, Brushing, Painting, Powder Coated, Passivation, Electrophoresis, Electro Polishing, Knurl, Laser/Etch/Engrave etc. |
| | ±0.002 ~ ±0.005mm |
| | Min Ra 0.1~3.2 |
| CERTIFICATE | ISO9001:2015,AS9100D,ISO13485:2016,ISO45001:2018,IATF16949:2016,ISO14001:2015,ROSH,CE etc. |
FAQ
1. Are you a manufacturer or a trading company?
We are a factory located in Shenzhen, China, with 20 years of rich experience,
covering 6000 square meters. Complete facilities, including 3D quality inspection equipment, ERP system and 40 machines. If necessary, we can provide you with material certificates, sample quality inspection and other reports.
2. How to get a quote?
Detailed drawings (PDF/STEP/IGS/DWG...), including quality, delivery date, materials, quality, quantity, surface treatment and other information.
3. Can I get a quotation without drawings?
Can your engineering team draw for my creativity? Of course, we are also glad to receive your samples, pictures or detailed size drafts for accurate quotation.
4. Can you provide samples before mass production?
Of course, the sample fee is necessary. If possible, it will be returned during mass production.
5. What is the delivery date?
Generally, the sample lasts for 1-2 weeks and the batch production lasts for 3-4 weeks.
6. How do you control quality?
(1) Material Inspection - Check material surfaces and approximate dimensions.
(2) First inspection of production - ensure
critical dimensions in mass production.
(3) Sampling inspection - check the quality before delivery to the warehouse.
(4) Preshipment inspection - 100% inspection by QC assistant before shipment.
7. After sales service team
If you have any problems after receiving the product, you can provide feedback through voice call, video conference, email, etc. within one month. Our team will provide you with solutions within a week.
