CNC Machining Materials

A computer numerically controlled machine (CNC) is a machining tool that forms stock materials into desired shapes to meet manufacturing instructions and part requirements. CNC machine tools use preprogrammed software to control the motion of complex machinery, including grinders, lathes, milling machines and other cutting tools used to remove material.

These computer-aided manufacturing technologies can perform a variety of complex and precise CNC machining tasks. So what materials are CNC machine tools suitable for?

The CNC machining process is suitable for a wide range of engineering materials, including:

Metals (e.g. aluminum, brass, stainless steel, alloy steel, etc.)

Plastics (e.g. PEEK, PTFE, nylon, etc.)

Wood

Foam

Composites

Selecting the best materials for CNC manufacturing applications depends heavily on the particular manufacturing application and its specifications. Most materials can be machined as long as they are able to withstand the machining process, i.e., they have sufficient hardness, tensile strength, shear strength, and chemical and heat resistance.

The workpiece material and its physical properties are used to determine the optimum cutting speed, cutting feed rate, and depth of cut. Cutting speed, measured in surface feet per minute, is the rate at which the machine cuts into the workpiece or removes material from the workpiece. Feed rate (measured in inches per minute) measures how fast the workpiece is fed to the machine tool, and depth of cut is the depth to which the cutting tool cuts into the workpiece. Typically, the workpiece first undergoes an initial stage in which it is roughed to approximate, custom-designed shapes and sizes, followed by a finishing stage in which the workpiece undergoes slower feed rates and shallower depths of cut for more precise and accurate specifications.