Choosing a CNC Material — A Buyer’s Guide
The material decides weight, strength, corrosion resistance and cost before a tool ever moves. Here is how to pick between the four metals buyers ask about most.
The Four Metals, Side by Side
| Material | Best for | Watch out |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium (6061 / 7075) | Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, cheap to machine | Lower strength than steel |
| Stainless / alloy steel (304 / 316 / 4140) | Strength, wear, heat resistance | Heavier, slower to machine |
| Titanium (Grade 5) | Strength-to-weight, corrosion, heat | Cost and machine time |
| Brass (C360) | Precision, conductivity, easy machining | Not for structural load |
When to Pick Each
Aluminium is the default for most enclosures, brackets and fixtures — light, corrosion-resistant and fast to machine. Steel when the part must carry load, resist wear or take heat. Titanium when weight and corrosion both matter (aerospace, medical, auto). Brass for fittings, connectors and parts needing electrical conductivity or very tight dimensional control.
Common Grades We Machine
Aluminium 6061-T6 and 7075-T6, stainless 304 and 316L, alloy steel 4140, titanium Ti-6Al-4V, brass C360, plus copper and engineering plastics. Our aluminium grade chart breaks down the 6000 vs 7000 series choice.
How Material Affects Cost
Aluminium and mild steel are the economical end; titanium, Inconel and PEEK sit at the high end because of material price and slower cutting. Picking the cheapest grade that meets the function — not the strongest available — is the usual cost win. See the cost guide for the full picture.
Not Sure? Send the Function
If you know what the part must do but not the material, tell us the load, environment and quantity. We will recommend a grade and note it in the quote — no obligation. First-time buyers can start on our small orders page.
CNC Material Questions
The questions buyers ask before sending a file — answered from the buyer's side.
Which CNC material should I use for a light part?
Which material is strongest for CNC parts?
When should I choose titanium?
Why would I pick brass?
Can you help me choose the material?
Do you stock the common materials?
Do you machine plastics too?
How does material affect the price?
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Not sure which material? Ask an engineer
Send what the part must do — load, environment, quantity. We recommend a grade in the quote, free, no obligation.