Aluminium Machining - HLH Rapid

1. Aluminium Machining: Top Alloy Grades, Benefits, and Cost Analysis Introduction Aluminium is one of the most widely used metals in CNC machining due to its superior balance of mechanical properties, machinability, weight, conductivity, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness. It is especially compatible with various post-processing techniques, making it a top choice across industries HLH Rapid. 1. Benefits of Aluminium for CNC Machining Aluminium stands out for several compelling reasons: •Good to excellent machinability across most grades •Lightweight yet strong •Excellent thermal and electrical conductivity •Natural corrosion resistance, often adequate without coatings •Compatible with numerous finishing treatments •Cost-effective and fast to machine HLH Rapid 2. Popular Aluminium Alloys for CNC Machining HLH Rapid commonly uses alloys from the 1000 to 8000 series. Notable choices include HLH Rapid+ 1: 7075-T6 •Highly rigid and strong •Excellent strength-to-weight ratio •Ideal for demanding aerospace and automotive applications •More expensive and challenging to machine 6061 / 6061-T6 •Widely available (especially in China) •Well-balanced mechanical properties and machinability

2. •Highly corrosion-resistant and cost-effective 6082 •Medium-strength alloy •Excellent corrosion resistance •Commonly used in structural components 5052 / 5083 •Exceptional corrosion resistance •Strong, weldable, and ductile •Often used in marine or outdoor applications HLH ensures material quality using spectrometric validation for full traceability HLH Rapid. 3. Finishing Options CNC-machined aluminium parts can benefit from multiple surface treatments: •Anodizing — ideal for alloys like 6061, 7075, 2024, and 5052; enhances corrosion resistance, durability, and aesthetics •Bead blasting, brushing, polishing, sandblasting, plating (nickel/chrome), and painting — offer varying aesthetics, textures, and protective properties HLH Rapid 4. Cost Considerations Material Cost •Aluminium: approximately $2–$5 per kilogram •Specialty alloys (e.g. 7075): higher material and machining costs HLH Rapid Machining Rates (3-axis CNC) •Europe: $25–$80 per hour (simple parts); $80–$150 per hour (complex parts requiring 5-axis, tight tolerances, specialized tools) •China: $10–$35 per hour (simple); $20–$65 (complex) HLH Rapid Economies of Scale

3. •Price per piece decreases significantly with batch production •In contrast, aluminium 3D printing cost per unit remains relatively constant regardless of volume HLH Rapid 5. Summary Table Category Details Machinability, strength-to-weight, conductivity, corrosion resistance, finish options, cost-efficiency Benefits Common Alloys 7075-T6 (high strength), 6061/6061-T6 (general use), 6082 (structural), 5052/5083 (marine, corrosion-resistant) Finishes Anodizing, blasting, polishing, plating, painting $2–$5/kg base cost; $25–$80/hr (Europe simple), $80–$150/hr (Europe complex); China: $10–$35/hr simple, $20–$65/hr complex Cost Factors Batch vs. 3D Printing Batch machining discounts; whereas aluminium 3D printing cost per unit remains flat regardless of volume 6. Final Thoughts Aluminium machining presents a compelling option for custom CNC parts, offering: •Excellent material properties and versatility across industries •A wide range of alloy choices tailored to performance and cost needs •Flexible finishing processes to meet aesthetics and protection requirements •Competitive pricing, especially for medium to large batches •Consistent quality backed by rigorous material validation and traceability processes Getting Started •Submit your 3D CAD files to HLH Rapid to receive a free quote •Benefit from expert advice and batch pricing for streamlined production