Material Selection for CNC Turning
Explore our premium materials for precision machining
Metal
Aluminum 6061
Grade: T6
Hardness
Machinability
Corrosion Res.
Applications
Aerospace components, automotive parts, bicycle frames, marine fittings, and electronic enclosures.
Characteristics
- High strength-to-weight ratio
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Good machinability and surface finish
- Weldable and heat treatable
Metal
Stainless Steel 304
Grade: 304L
Hardness
Machinability
Corrosion Res.
Applications
Food processing equipment, chemical containers, surgical instruments, architectural trim, and marine hardware.
Characteristics
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- High tensile strength
- Good formability and weldability
- Non-magnetic in annealed condition
Plastic
Delrin (POM)
Grade: Acetal Homopolymer
Hardness
Machinability
Chemical Res.
Applications
Gears, bearings, bushings, valve components, electrical insulators, and conveyor system parts.
Characteristics
- High stiffness and dimensional stability
- Low friction and excellent wear resistance
- Good chemical resistance
- Excellent machinability
Plastic
Nylon 6/6
Grade: PA66
Hardness
Machinability
Impact Strength
Applications
Gears, rollers, bearings, electrical connectors, automotive components, and industrial housings.
Characteristics
- High mechanical strength and toughness
- Good abrasion resistance
- Resistant to hydrocarbons and solvents
- Low coefficient of friction
Composite
PEEK
Grade: Polyetheretherketone
Hardness
Machinability
Temp. Resistance
Applications
Aerospace components, medical implants, semiconductor manufacturing, oil & gas equipment, and high-performance bearings.
Characteristics
- Exceptional thermal stability (260°C continuous)
- Excellent chemical resistance
- High mechanical strength and stiffness
- Low smoke and toxic gas emission
Exotic Alloy
Titanium Grade 5
Ti-6Al-4V
Hardness
Machinability
Strength/Weight
Applications
Aircraft components, medical implants, marine hardware, high-performance automotive parts, and sports equipment.
Characteristics
- Highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal
- Exceptional corrosion resistance
- Biocompatible and non-toxic
- Maintains strength at high temperatures
Material Comparison Guide
| Material | Tensile Strength | Density | Max Temp | Machinability | Cost Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum 6061 | 310 MPa | 2.7 g/cm³ | 175°C | Excellent | 1.0 |
| Stainless Steel 304 | 505 MPa | 8.0 g/cm³ | 925°C | Good | 1.3 |
| Delrin (POM) | 70 MPa | 1.4 g/cm³ | 90°C | Excellent | 1.7 |
| Nylon 6/6 | 85 MPa | 1.1 g/cm³ | 120°C | Excellent | 1.5 |
| PEEK | 100 MPa | 1.3 g/cm³ | 260°C | Good | 17.3 |
| Titanium Grade 5 | 950 MPa | 4.4 g/cm³ | 600°C | Fair | 7.8 |