When selecting the best CNC-machined parts, you should prioritize the characteristics that matter most to you. This will help you eliminate materials that don’t meet your expectations, as well as compare cost between different options.
Brass
Among the various types of metals used for computer numerical control machining, brass is the most widely used. Its ductility and ease of machining make it a versatile material for a variety of applications. Generally, brass is made by adding zinc to copper, the exact amount of which depends on its grade.
More zinc gives the brass greater strength and ductility. Computer numerical control machining services can produce brass parts to precision specifications. According to this link, brass is extremely durable, with a melting point of over 900 degrees Fahrenheit. While all brass is corrosion-resistant and has a high strength-to-weight ratio, different types have slightly different physical and chemical properties.
For example, different grades of brass have different minimum wall thicknesses. Copper C260, for instance, is a zinc-alloyed formulation. It is a good choice for gears, hinges, and rivets. Meanwhile, Brass C360 is a free-cutting metal that has a relatively low resistance to corrosion and is used for gears and other heavy-duty applications.
Brass is used in a variety of industries, including electronics and medical devices. It is easy to machine and has a variety of benefits. Brass fittings are often used in electronic hardware and can be found at such places like Mecha CNC Shop, where they have low strength and weight and are highly corrosion-resistant. As a result, it is a highly-preferred material for computer numerical control pieces.
The resulting products are often more durable than their mechanical counter pieces. And brass is an excellent choice for computer numerical control machining, especially if you have a large number of pieces to produce. Computer numerical control machines are capable of producing just about any three-dimensional object. Because brass is such an easy-to-work metal, it is a great choice for a variety of industries.
Brass is a very durable material and is versatile enough to be used in different applications. Computer numerical control machining also gives engineers the opportunity to create a wide range of pieces. But before you purchase computer numerical control parts; be sure to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each. Alpha brass, also known as naval brass, is a form of the material that contains less than 37% zinc. It has a face-centered cubic crystal structure and is therefore softer than other brasses.
This type of brass is often used for precision machined parts and is corrosion-resistant. It is also used in the medical and electronic industries. Brass is used in just about every industry and has many uses. There is even a brass alloy that contains only three elements – zinc, copper, and copper. Due to its inherent conductivity and low friction coefficient, brass is often left uncoated. However, for exposed pieces and cosmetic applications, a clear coating may be necessary.
Because brass is also a natural antibacterial, it does not have an issue with corrosion in harsh environments. Brass can also be hand-polished to achieve a smooth, shiny surface. You can also find brass pieces with a high-gloss finish if you work with a reputable computer numerical control manufacturer.
UHMWPE
Among the many computer numerical control plastic machining materials, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) stands out for its superior mechanical properties and easy machining. Due to its stability, UHMWPE is not the best material to mold. Because of this, it is recommended to outsource the machining of UHMWPE pieces to a reputable service.
UHMWPE is a form of polyethylene that exhibits excellent impact and abrasion resistance. Its low operating temperature makes it ideal for cryogenic applications. Its high crystalline structure provides exceptional resistance to wear and impact. These characteristics enable UHMW machined pieces to outlast other materials, including metals, nylons, and fluoroplastics.
UHMW-PE can be used for a variety of applications, including conveyor belt liners, chute lining, and wear strips. Its low friction coefficient makes it an excellent material for human implants, as it doesn’t allow bacteria or fungus to grow. The West Midlands-based company Sentinel Plastics LTD has extensive experience with UHMWPE machining and serves many blue-chip customers.
A variety of uses for UHMWPE include medical devices, prosthetics, and shopping bags. The versatile material is made of thermoplastics with a variable crystalline structure. Polyethylene has several grades and formulations, making it difficult to choose the right one for your application.
If you’re considering using UHMWPE for your computer numerical control parts, you’ll want to research the material first. Its advantages and disadvantages can influence your decision. Among its uses, UHMWPE is widely used in marine applications. It forms the contact surface between a floating vessel and a fixed vessel. Its low friction properties make it a popular choice for fender systems in berthing structures.
Related Contents: