Aluminum alloys are widely used in CNC machining operations due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratio, good corrosion resistance, and easy machinability. There are several common aluminum alloy types that are frequently used in CNC machining applications such as 6061, 7075, and 2024.
When CNC machining 6061 aluminum alloy, it is important to pay attention to the high silicon content of the material, which can lead to a significant amount of build-up on the cutting tool. Therefore, proper chip evacuation is critical, and tools with sharp edges and a high rake angle should be used for optimal cutting performance.
7075 aluminum alloy is known for its high strength and hardness, making it a popular material for aerospace and defense applications. However, this alloy is also prone to stress corrosion cracking, so care should be taken to avoid over-stressing the material during CNC machining operations. The use of high-quality cutting tools with minimal runout and a proper coolant can help minimize the risk of stress corrosion cracking.
2024 aluminum alloy is another popular choice for CNC machining due to its excellent formability and machinability. However, it is important to take into consideration the presence of copper in this alloy, which can lead to the formation of burrs during machining operations. Using sharp cutting tools with a high clearance angle can help minimize the formation of burrs and ensure a clean surface finish.