CNC Machining
Aluminum
Aluminum is the undisputed champion of CNC machining. Offering an unparalleled combination of low density, high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent thermal conductivity, and superb machinability, it is the go-to metal for aerospace, automotive, and electronic components.
Core Mechanical Properties
Selecting the right aluminum alloy determines the success of your part. Below is a practical cross-series reference covering representative aluminum grades from 1xxx through 7xxx, using common industry tempers for each alloy.
| Alloy Grade | Yield Strength | Tensile Strength | Hardness (Brinell) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1100-H14 | ~ 110 MPa | ~ 130 MPa | ~ 32 HB |
| 2011-T3 | ~ 280 MPa | ~ 360 MPa | ~ 95 HB |
| 3003-H14 | ~ 130 MPa | ~ 160 MPa | ~ 42 HB |
| 4032-T6 | ~ 320 MPa | ~ 390 MPa | ~ 120 HB |
| 5052-H32 | ~ 180 MPa | ~ 230 MPa | ~ 60 HB |
| 6061-T6 | ~ 270 MPa | ~ 310 MPa | ~ 93 HB |
| 7075-T6 | ~ 480 MPa | ~ 560 MPa | ~ 150 HB |
* Note: Aluminum hardness is typically measured on the Brinell (HB) scale rather than Rockwell (HRC) due to its relative softness compared to steel.
International Grade Comparison
Use our cross-reference chart to match American standards (AA/ASTM) with European (DIN/EN) and Chinese (GB) material equivalents.
| AA / ASTM (USA) | DIN / EN (Europe) | GB (China) | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6061 | AlMg1SiCu / 3.3211 | 6061 / LD30 | The industry standard. Superb weldability, highly corrosion-resistant, and responds excellently to anodizing. |
| 7075 | AlZn5.5MgCu / 3.4365 | 7075 / LC4 | One of the strongest aluminum alloys available (comparable to many steels). High fatigue strength, heavily used in aerospace. |
| 5052 | AlMg2.5 / 3.3523 | 5052 / LF2 | Exceptional corrosion resistance (especially in marine environments) and highly formable, making it great for sheet metal and structural chassis. |
Hardcore Industrial Applications
From the depths of the ocean to low Earth orbit, our precision machined aluminum components are trusted in mission-critical systems.
Aerospace Brackets & Fittings
Machined primarily from 7075-T6. These structural components provide massive tensile strength while keeping aircraft weight to an absolute minimum.
Automotive Heat Sinks & Housings
Utilizing 6061-T6 for its excellent thermal conductivity. Complex 5-axis milled cooling fins rapidly dissipate heat from EV batteries and control units.
Medical Device Chassis
Medical imaging and diagnostic machines rely on 5052 and 6061 structural frames that are rigid, non-magnetic, and easily sterilized.
Expert Machining Tips
While aluminum is highly machinable, its gummy nature requires specific cutting strategies. Huade engineers implement these techniques for flawless results:
- 1
Fewer Flutes for Chip Clearance
Unlike steel which uses 4+ flute end mills, aluminum should be machined using 2 or 3-flute carbide cutters. This provides larger chip valleys, preventing the material from clogging and snapping the tool.
- 2
Maximized RPM & High Feeds
Aluminum loves speed. We push our spindles to 10,000+ RPM with aggressive feed rates to effectively shear the metal and prevent built-up edge (BUE), leaving a mirror-like finish.
- 3
Strategic Coolant Usage
Because aluminum heats up and becomes sticky, using a high-lubricity coolant (or Minimum Quantity Lubrication - MQL) is critical to evacuate chips instantly and prevent the aluminum from welding itself to the cutter.
Top 3 Surface Treatments
Aluminum's natural oxide layer provides basic protection, but our in-house post-processing elevates its durability and cosmetics exponentially.
1. Type II Anodizing (Decorative)
An electrochemical process that thickens the natural oxide layer. It protects against corrosion and allows the aluminum to be dyed in vibrant, permanent colors (Black, Red, Blue, etc.).
2. Type III Hardcoat Anodizing
Creates a significantly thicker, denser oxide layer. Designed for extreme industrial applications where maximum wear resistance and dielectric (insulating) properties are mandatory.
3. Bead Blasting
A mechanical finish using fine glass beads to erase CNC tooling marks. It leaves a premium, uniform matte texture—the industry standard pre-treatment before anodizing.
Explore Surface FinishesStart Your Manufacturing RFQ
Upload your 3D CAD files today. Our engineering team will review your aluminum specifications and provide a free DFM report along with rapid pricing.