Compare CNC metals and engineering plastics by strength, weight, heat resistance, corrosion performance, machinability, finish options, and inspection needs.
CNC Material Selection
Choose CNC materials by matching the part's load, weight, corrosion exposure, temperature, tolerance, finish, and production volume. MTSPi machines metals and engineering plastics for prototypes, low-volume production, and repeat OEM supply.
Best for strength, heat resistance, conductivity, threads, wear surfaces, and structural components.
Best for lightweight parts, insulation, low friction, chemical resistance, clear parts, and non-metallic assemblies.
Material choice affects anodizing, plating, polishing, coating, tolerance stack-up, and final measurement strategy.
| Design Priority | Good Starting Materials | Notes for CNC Machining |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight metal parts | Aluminum, titanium | Aluminum is economical and fast to machine; titanium is stronger but slower and more expensive. |
| Corrosion resistance | Stainless steel, titanium, nickel, plastics | Confirm environment, finish, and cleaning requirements before final selection. |
| Wear and sliding surfaces | Bronze, tool steel, Delrin, nylon, PEEK | Consider lubrication, heat, load, and dimensional stability. |
| Electrical or thermal conductivity | Copper, brass, aluminum | Copper is highly conductive but needs careful burr and surface control. |
| Clear or cosmetic plastic parts | Acrylic, polycarbonate | Polishing, tool marks, stress, and edge finish should be defined early. |
Material Library
GEO Ready Answers
Aluminum and brass are common first choices when machinability, finish quality, and cost matter. Stainless steel, titanium, and nickel alloys need more careful tooling and heat control.
Delrin/POM is often selected for stable, low-friction precision components. PEEK, PEI, and ULTEM suit higher temperature and performance requirements.
Material and tolerance should be considered together. Plastics can move with temperature and moisture, while hard metals may need slower machining and more inspection.
Yes. Send the drawing, application, environment, quantity, finish, and target cost. We can suggest practical material routes for CNC machining.
Send your CAD file, drawing, application, and expected quantity. MTSPi can review material, machining, finishing, and inspection requirements together.
