Although fabricators use a variety of materials to make parts and components, aluminum ranks high on the list. After all, it’s lightweight yet amazingly strong. In addition, aluminum is easy to work with for simple to complex products. As most people know, CNC metal machining involves multiple processes using several types of machines.

Not only is this material ideal for custom aluminum parts but also prototypes. Considering its versatility, it makes perfect sense why fabrication companies suggest it as a top choice.

Aluminum Properties

Beyond the properties mentioned, aluminum offers other in-demand characteristics. For instance, it’s malleable, durable but lightweight, ductile, non-toxic, and corrosion resistant. However, that’s not all; this material is also affordable, thermal-conductive, and features high conductivity. With everything combined, it’s understandable why it’s often used for CNC machining in Toronto.

Aluminum Grades

Along with amazing properties, people can choose from different grades for CNC metal machining. Keep in mind that regardless of the grade a fabricator uses, they’re all machinable.

• Grade 2011 – As described by a company that provides aluminum machining near me, it’s the finest available. Again, fabricators can machine all grades, but 2011 is by far the best. However, with low resistance to corrosion, manufacturing companies typically add an anodised finish.
• Grade 2024 – Usually, fabricators use this grade of aluminum to create products for the aerospace and military sectors. Because of its mechanical properties, it’s an excellent choice when high strength and wear resistance matter. The only drawbacks are its low resistance to corrosion and poor welding capability.
• Grade 5052 – As a softer aluminum, it’s commonly used for different forming applications. Also, fabricators like it for custom aluminum parts made specifically for marine products due to its outstanding corrosion resistance.
• Grade 6061 – Leading companies providing CNC machining in Toronto agree that this aluminum grade works best for the extrusion process. In addition, it boasts good mechanical properties, which include weldability. It also has medium to high strength and good toughness.
• Grade 6063 – Although this aluminum grade has similar characteristics to Grade 6061, it’s used more often for extrusions. However, it’s a little more difficult to machine because it’s somewhat gummy and soft.
• Grade 7075 – This grade boasts optimal fatigue strength. For that reason, fabricators choose it for CNC metal machining of things like airplane fuselages and wings. However, it also works well for bike parts and even kits used for rock climbing.

CNC Tools Used to Create Custom Aluminum Parts

Again, CNC machining consists of multiple processes and different machines. Here are some examples of these:

• Milling – Among all the processes used by companies for CNC machining in Toronto and beyond, milling is the most common. While the metal workpiece remains stationary, the machine performs multi-point cutting along the axis.
• Tuning – Tuning works differently in that the single-point cutting tool remains stationary while the metal workpiece rotates.
• Drilling – This, too, is a common tool used for CNC metal machining. In this case, a multi-point rotating cutting tool makes holes in the workpiece.

One Source for All These Services and More

People can take advantage of all these services and more by contacting Promark Tool and Manufacturing. That includes creating prototypes and finished custom aluminum parts. Learn more about the company and how it benefits multiple industries by calling to speak with a team expert.