Aluminum is the most widely machined metal — light, strong, corrosion-resistant and highly machinable. Choosing the right grade and finish is the difference between a good part and a great one.
Choosing the Right Grade
6061 offers the best balance of strength, machinability and cost for general parts. 7075 provides aerospace-grade strength but costs more. 5052 and 6063 suit sheet forming and extrusions respectively.
Machinability & Speed
Aluminum cuts fast with excellent chip control, so cycle times are short and tool life long. This makes it the most economical metal to machine at volume.
Surface Finishes
Anodizing (clear, colored or hard) is the most common finish, improving corrosion resistance and appearance. Other options include bead blasting, brushing, powder coating and polishing.
Design Rules for Aluminum
Maintain consistent wall thickness, use generous internal radii, and avoid sharp internal corners to reduce stress and tool wear. Keep pocket depth-to-width ratios within recommended limits.
Common Applications
Aluminum is everywhere — smartphone and laptop housings, heat sinks, audio panels, UAV frames, camera bodies and automotive lightweight parts.
Need an aluminum part? Send your drawing for a free DFM review and a quote within 24 hours.
FAQ
What CNC machining services does Ruijin CNC offer?
Ruijin CNC provides CNC turning, CNC milling (3-axis and 4-axis), 5-axis CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, metal stamping, and surface treatment including anodizing, plating and powder coating.
What tolerances and certifications does Ruijin CNC hold?
Where the coating has to take wear, Type III changes the dimensions you machine to: our hard anodizing guide covers thickness, hardness and the fit changes to allow for.
We hold tight tolerances down to ±0.01mm across all processes, and are certified to IATF 16949, ISO 9001 and ISO 13485.
What is the minimum order quantity and lead time?
We accept prototypes from 1 piece with no strict MOQ, provide free DFM review, and return a quote within 24 hours of receiving your CAD drawing and requirements.
How do I get a quote from Ruijin CNC?
Send your STEP file and drawing to gongtianbao@xhlmarketing.com or via WhatsApp +86 17620300785. We reply with a DFM review and a firm quote within 24 hours.