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.