What materials are best for CNC machining?
Metals like aluminum, stainless steel, and brass are widely used due to their strength and machinability. For plastics, POM, ABS, and PEEK are common choices depending on the application.
What are the most cost-effective materials for prototypes?
Aluminum and ABS are commonly used for cost-effective prototyping due to their ease of machining and affordable price.
Can I provide my own materials for machining?
Yes, we can work with customer-supplied materials as long as they meet processing and safety standards. Please contact us to confirm compatibility.
Do you offer food-safe or medical-grade materials?
Yes, we offer materials like PEEK and 316L stainless steel that meet food and medical-grade requirements. Please specify your standards when ordering.
How do I choose the right material for my part?
Material selection depends on factors like strength, weight, temperature resistance, surface finish, and cost. We offer free DFM support to help you choose the best material.
Are plastic parts as strong as metal parts?
Not usually. Plastics like PEEK and POM have good mechanical strength, but metals are preferred for high-stress or load-bearing components.
Can all materials be anodized or plated?
No. For example, only certain metals like aluminum can be anodized. Plastics generally can't be anodized or electroplated.
Can I change the material after confirming the order?
We recommend finalizing the material choice before production. Changes after machining starts may incur additional costs or delays.
What if I'm not sure which material to use?
No problem. Share your part file and application, and we’ll recommend the most suitable materials based on your project’s needs.
Are recycled or eco-friendly materials available for CNC machining?
Yes, some materials such as recycled ABS, recycled PE, and certain aluminum alloys can be used for CNC machining. If you have sustainability requirements, let us know during your inquiry and we’ll recommend suitable options.
Do different materials affect machining lead time?
Yes. Harder or more difficult-to-machine materials may require longer lead times.