Quick Look

DensityMelting PointThermal ConductivityElectrical ConductivityCoefficient of Expansion
2.7 g/cm³660°C205 W/m·K37.7 MS/m23.1 µm/m·K

About the Material

Materials We Support:

ASTMDINGBDensity (g/cm³)HardnessTensile Strength,Yield (MPa)Fatigue Strength (Mpa)Elongation at Break (%)
2017AlCuMg12A11&LY112.8120~150 HB215~355150~25012~17
2024AlCuMg22A12&LY122.78120~150 HB470~520180~20010~15
5052AlMg2.55A02&LF22.6860 HB19311512
5083AlMg4.5Mn
3.3547
5083&LF42.6860~75 HB310~420130~19012~18
6061AlMg1SiCu
3.3206
6061&LD302.760~95 HB24010012~17
6063AlMgSi0.56063&LD312.750~80 HB1458010~15
60823.2315 ①
2.7195~110 HB320~430150~2508~12
7075AlZnMgCu1.57A09&LC92.8150~180 HB50520011~13

Advantages:

  1. Lightweight: Aluminum alloys are significantly lighter than other metals, making them suitable for aerospace and automotive applications.

  2. High Machinability: Aluminum is easy to cut, drill, and mill, allowing for faster production with lower tooling costs.

  3. Corrosion Resistant: Natural resistance to corrosion reduces the need for additional coatings in many environments.

  4. Thermal Conductivity: Ideal for components requiring heat dissipation, such as heat sinks.

Limitations:

  1. Strength Limitations: Aluminum alloys may not provide the same level of strength as steel or titanium in high-load applications.

  2. Surface Softness: Aluminum is softer compared to other metals, making it susceptible to scratches and dents.

  3. Cost: Depending on the alloy and application, aluminum can be more expensive compared to other materials like carbon steel.

Chemical Composition Table for Aluminum Alloys

ElementTypical Percentage (%)
Aluminum (Al)85-99
Magnesium (Mg)0.5-6
Silicon (Si)0.5-12
Copper (Cu)0.1-5
Zinc (Zn)0.1-6

Mechanical Machining Properties Table for Aluminum Alloys

PropertyValue
Machinability RatingExcellent
Cutting Speed (m/min)200-300
Tool Wear ResistanceModerate
Coolant RequirementOptional
Surface Finish QualityHigh

Design Parameters Table for CNC Machining Aluminum Alloys

Maximum   Bulid Size (mm)Minimum Wall   Thickness (mm)Minimum   Assembly Gap (mm)Tolerance (mm)Minimum End   Mill Size (mm)Minimum Drill   Size (mm)
3600x2500x60010.01Minimum 0.0110.5

Industry Applications and Case Studies for CNC Machining Aluminum Alloys

  1. Aerospace Industry:

    • Application: Production of lightweight structural components, brackets, and fittings.

    • Case Study: An aerospace company used CNC machining to create aluminum alloy brackets, reducing the weight of the aircraft and improving fuel efficiency.

  2. Automotive Industry:

    • Application: Manufacturing of engine parts, heat exchangers, and transmission components.

    • Case Study: An automotive manufacturer utilized CNC machining to produce aluminum cylinder heads, achieving excellent thermal management and reduced overall vehicle weight.

  3. Electronics Industry:

    • Application: Production of heat sinks, casings, and electronic enclosures.

    • Case Study: A consumer electronics company used CNC machining to manufacture aluminum heat sinks, providing efficient thermal management for electronic devices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about CNC Machining Aluminum Alloys

  1. What are the benefits of using aluminum alloys in CNC machining?

    • Aluminum alloys are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and highly machinable, making them ideal for various applications.

  2. Is CNC machining suitable for high-volume aluminum alloy production?

    • Yes, CNC machining is effective for both prototyping and large-scale production, with consistent quality and precision.

  3. What industries benefit from CNC machining aluminum alloys?

    • Industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and consumer goods benefit from aluminum's lightweight, strength, and machinability.

  4. How does aluminum compare to steel in terms of cost and performance?

    • Aluminum is generally more expensive than carbon steel but offers better machinability, corrosion resistance, and weight savings.

  5. What are the limitations of using aluminum alloys in CNC machining?

    • Limitations include lower strength compared to steel and susceptibility to surface scratches and dents.

  6. Can aluminum alloys be anodized after CNC machining?

    • Yes, anodizing is a common post-processing step for aluminum alloys to enhance corrosion resistance and surface hardness.

  7. What tolerances can be achieved with CNC machining aluminum alloys?

    • Typical tolerances are ±0.1 mm, depending on the specific requirements of the part.

Finishing Options

Name
Colors
Can Be Applied with
Hardcoat Anodizing
Clear, dark gray or black
Offers superior hardness and corrosion resistance with a thicker oxide layer
Powder Coating
Provides a wide range of colors
Provides a protective coating that improves corrosion resistance and can give a uniform, colored finish.
Electropolishing
Results in a shiny, bright finish
Enhances surface smoothness and brightness, removing surface oxides and improving the appearance.
Zinc Plating
Gray or blue
Provides significant corrosion protection, extending the material's durability and preventing rust.
Silver Plating
Silver
Enhances corrosion resistance, provides a conductive layer, and offers a decorative, reflective finish.
Gold Plating
Gold
Provides a decorative gold finish with enhanced corrosion resistance and improved aesthetic appeal.
Electroless Nickel Plating
Metallic silver or gray
Enhances corrosion resistance and surface hardness, and provides a uniform, adherent coating that improves wear resistance.
Bead Blasting
-
Results in a frosted, matte surface, which can enhance the appearance by providing a uniform texture.
Tempering
-
Alters strength, hardness, and ductility.
Gold Chem Film
Gold
Offers similar corrosion protection and adhesion benefits but results in a gold-colored finish.
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Anodizing
Clear, black, blue, red, and various other shades
Corrosion Resistance\nIncreased Hardness\nColor Options\nBetter Adhesion

Parts Made by AutofabX

CNC Aluminum Alloys
CNC Aluminum Alloys
CNC Aluminum Alloys