What is the best metal for CNC machining high-strength, lightweight parts?
What Is the Best Metal for CNC Machining High-Strength, Lightweight Parts?
Titanium Ti-6Al-4V: Strength-to-Weight Leader
For applications requiring both high strength and low weight, Titanium Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) is widely regarded as the optimal CNC machining metal. With a yield strength of 880 MPa, a tensile strength of 950 MPa, and a density of only 4.43 g/cm³, it offers one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios among structural metals. This makes it a top choice in the aerospace, automotive, and medical industries where mechanical performance and weight savings are critical.
Ti-6Al-4V is biocompatible, corrosion-resistant, and maintains strength at temperatures up to 400°C. However, due to its low thermal conductivity and high work hardening rate, it requires expert handling in CNC processes. At Neway, our titanium CNC machining services employ optimized toolpaths, flood cooling, and carbide tooling to maintain tolerances down to ±0.01 mm even in thin-walled or complex geometries.
Aluminum 7075-T6: Lightweight and Cost-Effective
If budget or machining speed is a priority, Aluminum 7075-T6 offers a strong alternative. It delivers tensile strength of 570 MPa, yield strength of 500 MPa, and a density of just 2.81 g/cm³—making it nearly one-third the weight of steel with comparable strength. It’s commonly used in aircraft fittings, robotics frames, and sports equipment.
Unlike titanium, aluminum is easier to machine and supports shorter cycle times. Surface finishes can reach Ra 0.8–1.6 μm without post-processing, making it ideal for applications where high-quality aesthetics and tight tolerances are required.
Use Case Summary
Metal | Tensile Strength | Density (g/cm³) | Strength-to-Weight Ratio | Machinability | Ideal Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ti-6Al-4V | 950 MPa | 4.43 | Excellent | Difficult | Aerospace, medical, structural parts |
Aluminum 7075-T6 | 570 MPa | 2.81 | Very Good | Easy | Aviation, robotics, automotive |
Stainless 17-4PH | 1100 MPa | 7.8 | Moderate | Moderate | High-load components needing corrosion resistance |
Relevant Manufacturing Services You May Need
● Titanium CNC Machining Service ● Aluminum CNC Machining Service ● CNC Machining Services ● Low-Volume Manufacturing ● Precision Machining
Whether you need high-performance titanium parts or rapid-machined aerospace-grade aluminum components, Neway ensures ±0.01 mm precision, global delivery, and certified materials for reliable strength and lightness.
