Material selection is the most important cost factor for CNC parts besides design. The wrong material means: too expensive, too heavy, or worn out too quickly. In this guide, we show you which material is optimal for which application.
The 5 Most Common CNC Materials Compared
| Material | Weight | Corrosion | Price | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum (AlMg3 / 6082) | Light | Good | €€ | Housings, brackets, lightweight |
| Stainless steel (1.4301 / 1.4404) | Heavy | Very good | €€€ | Food, medical, chemical |
| Structural steel (S235 / S355) | Heavy | Low | € | Mechanical engineering, fixtures |
| Brass (CuZn39Pb3) | Medium | Good | €€€ | Fittings, electrical engineering |
| POM / PA (Plastic) | Very light | Inert | € | Bearings, insulation, FDA parts |
Decision Guide: 4 Questions for Your Part
- Will it get wet? → Stainless steel or plastic
- Must it be light? → Aluminum or plastic
- High loads? → Quenched and tempered steel (42CrMo4)
- Budget priority? → Aluminum or structural steel
Not sure which material to choose? Contact us, we provide free material consultation for your CNC parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which material is cheapest for CNC parts?
Aluminum (AlMg3/6082) and structural steel (S235) are the most affordable CNC materials. Aluminum machines particularly fast, reducing machining costs. For non-corrosive applications, structural steel offers the best value.
When should I choose stainless steel over aluminum?
Use stainless steel (1.4301/1.4404) for corrosion resistance, food contact, medical applications, or high temperatures. Machining costs are 3-4x higher than aluminum. Related: Tolerance Guide.
Can plastics be CNC machined?
Yes, POM, PA (Nylon), PEEK, and PE-UHMW machine excellently. POM is especially popular for slide bearings. More on CNC cost structures.