Which materials are cheapest and easiest to machine?
Which Materials Are Cheapest and Easiest to Machine?
Cost-Efficient and Machinable Metals
In CNC machining, materials that are both low-cost and easy to machine help reduce production time, tooling wear, and overall manufacturing expenses. The most machinable and economical metals typically include:
Aluminum 6061: Among the most popular choices, Aluminum 6061 offers excellent machinability, low material cost, and a good strength-to-weight ratio. Its ability to hold tight tolerances and accept a wide range of surface finishes makes it ideal for prototyping and mass production.
Brass C360: Known as the “free-machining brass,” Brass C360 is extremely easy to cut, drill, and mill. It offers high dimensional stability and low tool wear, reducing cycle times and machine downtime.
Mild Steel 1018: 1018 Steel is a low-carbon steel that balances affordability, machinability, and mechanical strength. It is widely used in general-purpose applications and is cost-effective in high-volume production.
Plastic (e.g., ABS, Delrin): ABS and Delrin (POM) are two of the easiest plastics to machine. These thermoplastics provide excellent dimensional stability, low cutting resistance, and quick material removal, making them ideal for rapid prototyping and consumer product components.
Machinability Ratings and Cost Considerations
Materials like Brass C360 and Aluminum 6061 have high machinability ratings—typically over 80% compared to a 100% benchmark (set by free-machining steel). Plastics like ABS and Delrin often allow faster feed rates and lower cutting forces, further enhancing their cost efficiency in CNC production.
Neway’s Material Expertise for Cost-Effective Machining
At Neway, we help clients select the best material based on their part’s geometry, functional requirements, and cost targets. Whether you're looking for low-volume production, rapid prototyping, or mass manufacturing, our team provides data-driven recommendations to ensure high quality with optimal material and machining cost balance.
Discover more affordable and machinable materials in our catalog:
