Aluminum CNC Machining — 6061, 7075, 2024 & More
Aluminum is the world's most-machined metal — fast to cut, light, strong, and endlessly versatile. We stock 10+ alloys and offer every standard surface finish in-house.
Why Machine Aluminum?
No other metal combines low cost, fast machining, light weight, and finishing versatility the way aluminum does. It is the default choice for good reason.
Excellent Machinability
Aluminum cuts 3–5× faster than steel, reducing machine time and cost. Ideal for prototypes and high-volume production alike.
High Strength-to-Weight
40% lighter than steel at comparable structural strength. Essential for aerospace, automotive, and robotics applications.
Natural Corrosion Resistance
Aluminum self-passivates with a natural oxide layer, offering good corrosion resistance in most environments without coating.
Accepts Anodizing
Type II and Type III anodizing add colour, wear resistance, and electrical insulation. Dozens of colour options available.
Aluminum Alloys We Stock & Machine
Six alloy families covering every application from aerospace to consumer electronics.
| Alloy | Tensile (MPa) | Machinability | Weldability | Best For | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6061-T6 | 310 MPa | Excellent | Good | General purpose | Frames, brackets, housings |
| 7075-T6 | 572 MPa | Good | Poor | High stress | Aerospace, bikes, gears |
| 2024-T3 | 483 MPa | Good | Poor | Fatigue resistance | Aircraft structures |
| 5052-H32 | 228 MPa | Fair | Excellent | Marine / sheet | Enclosures, panels |
| 6082-T6 | 310 MPa | Excellent | Good | EU standard (≈ 6061) | Structural |
| MIC-6 | 275 MPa | Excellent | N/A | Flat plate | Tooling, fixtures |
6061 vs 7075 — Which to Choose?
These two alloys account for the majority of all aluminum CNC projects. Here is how they compare across the factors that matter most.
Recommended for 80%+ of CNC aluminum projects
Choose when maximum strength-to-weight is critical
Anodizing Options
All anodizing types performed in-house or through our certified finishing partners.
| Type | Process Name | Thickness | Hardness | Color Options | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type I | Chromic Acid | 0.5–2.5 μm | Low | Clear only | Aerospace, fatigue-sensitive parts |
| Type II | Sulfuric Acid | 5–25 μm | Medium | Any colour | General, consumer products |
| Type III | Hard Anodize | 25–75 μm | High (65 HRC equiv.) | Black / clear | Wear surfaces, tooling |
Aluminum Machining Specifications
Standard capabilities for aluminum CNC milling and turning at Ginwate.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Standard Tolerance | ±0.01 mm |
| High-Precision Tolerance | ±0.003 mm |
| Max Part Size (Milling) | 600 × 400 × 300 mm |
| Max Part Size (Turning) | Ø300 × 1000 mm |
| Surface Finish (as-machined) | Ra 1.6 μm |
| Surface Finish (fine) | Ra 0.4 μm |
Design Tips for Aluminum Machining
Following these guidelines ensures accurate quotes and reduces the chance of costly design iterations.
Keep wall thickness ≥ 0.8 mm for milled features; ≥ 0.5 mm for turned parts to avoid chatter and deflection.
Anodizing adds 5–25 μm per side. Account for this in hole and shaft tolerances — specify pre- or post-anodize dimensions clearly.
Avoid mixing alloys in welded assemblies. 7075 and 2024 are not weldable; use 6061 or 5052 wherever joints are needed.
7075 is not weldable. If your design requires welding, switch to 6061 or 5052 early — do not rely on post-weld heat treatment.
MIC-6 cast tooling plate is stress-relieved and stays flat after machining. Ideal for fixture plates and optical bench components.
Common Applications
Aluminum CNC machined parts span dozens of industries.
Ready to Machine Aluminum Parts?
Upload your CAD files and get a detailed aluminum machining quote within 24 hours. No minimum order quantity.
