CNC (Control numérico de la computadora) machining relies heavily on the right choice of metal materials to achieve high precision, durabilidad, y rendimiento. Different metals have unique properties that make them suitable for specific industries—from aerospace to electronics, medical devices to automotive. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most common metal materials for Mecanizado CNC, sus rasgos clave, aplicaciones, and selection guidance.
1. Key Properties of Common CNC Machining Metals (Tabla de comparación)
To quickly compare core characteristics, here’s a summary of 10 widely used metals:
Material metálico | Densidad (gramos/cm³) | Strength Level | Maquinabilidad | Resistencia a la corrosión | Rango de costos |
Aleación de aluminio | 2.7 | Medio-alto | Excelente | Bien | Bajo en medio |
Acero inoxidable | 7.9 | Alto | Pobre | Excelente | Medio |
Acero carbono | 7.85 | Alto | Promedio | Pobre (Necesita recubrimiento) | Bajo |
Cobre & Aleaciones | 8.9 | Bajo en medio | Bien | Bien | Medio |
Titanio & Aleaciones | 4.5 | Muy alto | Muy pobre | Excelente | Muy alto |
Aleaciones a base de níquel | 8.1-8.5 | Muy alto | Muy pobre | Excelente | Muy alto |
Aleación de magnesio | 1.8 | Medio | Bien | Pobre (Necesita recubrimiento) | Medio |
Tungsten Steel (Carburo) | 14.0-15.0 | Extremadamente alto | Muy pobre | Excelente | Alto |
Aleación de zinc | 6.6-6.9 | Bajo | Excelente | Bien | Bajo |
Cobre de berilio | 8.25 | Alto | Bien | Bien | Alto |
2. Detailed Breakdown of Common Metals (with Models & Aplicaciones)
Each metal material has distinct advantages and ideal use cases. Below is a linear breakdown of their properties, popular models, y aplicaciones del mundo real:
2.1 Aleación de aluminio
Por qué elegirlo? It is the most widely used material in CNC machining due to its ligero (1/3 la densidad del acero) y Excelente maquinabilidad—tools stay sharp longer, y partes complejas (like aircraft frames) can be produced efficiently.
Key models:
- 6061: Práctico, with balanced strength and weldability (utilizado para piezas automotrices, gabinetes electrónicos).
- 7075: Ultra alta fuerza (5x stronger than 6061) for high-stress scenarios (componentes aeroespaciales, marcos de bicicleta).
- 5052: Resistente al óxido, ideal for marine or chemical equipment parts.
2.2 Acero inoxidable
Por qué elegirlo? Es resistencia a la corrosión superior makes it indispensable for harsh environments (P.EJ., de agua salada, químicos). Sin embargo, its high hardness leads to fast tool wear, requiring specialized cutting tools.
Key models:
- 304: General-purpose (maquinaria de alimentos, electrodomésticos de cocina) due to good rust resistance.
- 316: Added molybdenum for enhanced corrosion resistance (partes marinas, implantes médicos).
- 17-4Ph: Martensitic stainless steel that hardens with heat treatment (válvula, zapatillas).
2.3 Acero carbono
Por qué elegirlo? It offers high strength at a low cost, making it a budget-friendly option for structural parts. La desventaja? It rusts easily—so surface treatments (electro Excripción, cuadro) are a must.
Key models:
- Q235: Ordinary structural steel (corchetes, frames for industrial machines).
- 45# Acero: High-quality carbon steel (Después de enfriar/templar, Usado para engranajes, ejes).
- C45: European standard equivalent to 45# Acero (versatile for mechanical parts).
2.4 Other Essential Metals
- Cobre & Aleaciones: Sin par electrical/thermal conductivity (used for heat sinks, conectores eléctricos). Popular models: T2 pure copper (cables), H62 brass (accesorios de fontanería).
- Titanio & Aleaciones: El “aerospace metal”—alta fuerza + ligero (used for jet engine parts, implantes médicos). Key model: TI-6Al-4V (most widely used titanium alloy).
- Aleación de zinc: Bajo punto de fusión, ideal for die-casting (juguetes, piezas decorativas). Common model: Cargas 3 (good fluidity).
3. How to Select the Right Metal for CNC Machining?
Choosing the wrong material wastes time and money. Follow this 3-step guide to match your needs:
Paso 1: Prioritize Application Requirements
- Necesidad ligero + fortaleza? Choose aluminum alloy (aerospace/automotive) o aleación de titanio (high-end medical).
- Necesidad conductividad? Aleaciones de cobre (electrónica, disipadores de calor) son inmejorables.
- Necesidad resistencia a la corrosión? Acero inoxidable (316 for marine) or nickel-based alloys (temperaturas extremas).
Paso 2: Consider Machinability
- Easy-to-machine materials (aluminio, cobre, zinc): Best for complex parts (P.EJ., 3C product casings) because they reduce tool costs and production time.
- Difficult-to-machine materials (acero inoxidable, titanio): Require high-precision CNC machines and coated tools—use only for high-stress or harsh-environment parts (P.EJ., implantes médicos).
Paso 3: Balance Cost
- Low-cost options: Acero carbono (partes estructurales), aleación de aluminio (general components).
- High-cost options: Aleación de titanio (aeroespacial), nickel-based alloys (turbinas de gas)—reserve for applications where performance is non-negotiable.
4. La perspectiva de la tecnología de Yigu
En la tecnología yigu, we believe the success of CNC machining starts with material selection. A lo largo de los años, we’ve supported clients in aerospace, médico, and automotive industries by matching them with optimal metals—for example, using Ti-6Al-4V for lightweight medical implants and 6061 aluminum for cost-effective automotive parts. We also invest in advanced cutting tools (P.EJ., carbide tools for stainless steel) to overcome machinability challenges. Para clientes, the goal isn’t just to “machine a part”—it’s to choose a material that maximizes performance while controlling costs. We recommend starting with a clear list of application needs (fortaleza, ambiente, presupuesto) to narrow down options quickly.
5. Preguntas frecuentes (Preguntas frecuentes)
- q: Which metal is best for CNC machining complex, piezas livianas?
A: Aleación de aluminio (P.EJ., 6061) is ideal—it has excellent machinability for complex shapes and is lightweight, making it perfect for electronics or automotive components.
- q: Do I need surface treatment for carbon steel in CNC machining?
A: Sí. Carbon steel has poor corrosion resistance, so surface treatments like electroplating (for rust protection) o pintar (para la estética) are required to extend the part’s lifespan.
- q: Why is titanium alloy more expensive than other metals for CNC machining?
A: Titanium alloy has very high strength and corrosion resistance, but it is extremely difficult to machine—tools wear out quickly, and production takes longer. These factors (costo de material + tiempo de mecanizado) drive up the overall cost.