🧱 How to Choose the Right Material for CNC Machining

Learn how to choose the best material for CNC machining. Compare aluminum, steel, brass, and plastic for your next manufacturing project.

5/10/20251 min read

Various CNC machined parts made from aluminum, steel, brass, and plastic materials
Various CNC machined parts made from aluminum, steel, brass, and plastic materials

When it comes to CNC machining, choosing the right material can make or break your project. Whether you’re building a precision part, prototype, or production run, your material choice impacts strength, cost, finish quality, and machinability.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common materials used in CNC machining — and help you decide which is right for your application.

🥇 Most Common CNC Materials

🔹 Aluminum (6061, 7075)

  • Pros: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, easy to machine

  • Cons: Lower strength than steel

  • Best For: Aerospace, automotive, electronics, enclosures

🔹 Stainless Steel (303, 304, 316)

  • Pros: Durable, rust-proof, strong

  • Cons: Slower machining speeds, higher cost

  • Best For: Medical devices, industrial parts, outdoor equipment

🔹 Mild Steel

  • Pros: Strong, affordable, easily weldable

  • Cons: Prone to corrosion without treatment

  • Best For: Structural parts, tools, brackets

🔹 Brass

  • Pros: Smooth finish, low friction, corrosion-resistant

  • Cons: Higher material cost

  • Best For: Valves, gears, decorative components

🔹 Plastics (Nylon, ABS, Delrin)

  • Pros: Lightweight, flexible, low cost

  • Cons: Lower strength, can deform under heat

  • Best For: Prototypes, housings, low-load parts

🧠 What Factors Should You Consider?

  • Strength Requirements: What forces will the part endure?

  • Machinability: Some materials take longer or wear tools faster

  • Finish Needs: Do you need a smooth, decorative, or textured finish?

  • Budget: Consider both raw material and machining time

  • Environment: Will the part be exposed to moisture, heat, or chemicals?

⚙️ How InterGemm Can Help

Not sure which material is right for your CNC part?
At InterGemm, we don’t just machine — we guide. Our AI-powered quoting system considers your geometry and application to recommend the best material based on your goals.

We offer machining for:

  • Aluminum (6061, 7075)

  • Stainless Steel (303, 304, 316)

  • Carbon Steel

  • Brass

  • Plastics like Nylon, Delrin, ABS

📩 Let’s Build It Right

Choosing the right material can save you time, money, and stress.
Let InterGemm guide you from design to delivery — with smart, fast, and reliable CNC machining.

Request a quote now →