Load and stiffness
Separate strength from stiffness. A strong material can still deflect if the section is thin.
MATERIALS BY PROCESS
CNC Machining Materials
Compare metals and engineering plastics by machinability, stability, performance and finish—not by price alone.
See material options
01 · PRACTICAL ANSWER
What should you decide first?
Start with the working environment and the critical feature. Aluminum 6061 is the efficient general metal; POM is the stable general plastic. Move to stainless steel, titanium, PEEK or nickel alloys only when corrosion, heat, strength or compliance makes the extra machining cost necessary.
02 · ENGINEERING CHECKPOINTS
Four decisions before the grade.
These questions usually eliminate unsuitable material families faster than comparing long property tables.
Environment
Check temperature, chemicals, moisture, UV, galvanic contact and cleaning cycles.
Tolerance behavior
Thermal expansion, stress relief, creep and moisture uptake can control the final tolerance.
Finish and inspection
Define coating thickness, cosmetic zones, thread masking and certificate needs before quotation.
04 · DRAWING NOTE
Write the requirement, not only the material name.
- 01 Grade and condition
- 02 Critical dimensions and datums
- 03 Finish and cosmetic surfaces
- 04 Certificate and compliance needs