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CNC Machining Aluminum

  • ISO 9001:2015 certified
  • Wide aluminum grades available
  • From prototyping to mass production
  • The MOQ is one piece

Our Aluminum Machining Capabilities

At Beska, we customize high-precision CNC machining of aluminum components. Equipped with advanced machines and a skilled engineering team, we ensure that every part meets tight quality requirements.

ISO9001:2015 certified. We’re committed to delivering parts to the industry standard with repeatable quality and high efficiency.

Engineering Guidance. At Beska, there is an engineering team with 10+ years’ experience. We offer guidance on selecting the material and optimizing design. 

Multi-axis CNC Milling & CNC Turning. Beska is well-equipped with 3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis, and Swiss-type machines. These setups handle complex surfaces and angled structures with high consistency.

Multiple Aluminum Alloys. There is a list of aluminum alloys available at Beska. According to your final application, we will choose the right aluminum alloy. 

Tight Tolerance Control. We maintain tolerances as tight as ±0.005mm, making our services ideal for parts in the medical, aerospace, and robotics industries.

Complex Geometry & Prototyping. We machine intricate designs, including thin walls, angled cuts, and asymmetrical features. Rapid prototyping is also available.

Why Aluminum Is a Preferred Material for CNC Machining

Aluminum is one of the most commonly used materials for precision machining. It offers a balance of strength, weight, and processability.

  • Strength-to-weight efficiency: Aluminum is strong yet lightweight, ideal for aerospace frames and automotive parts.
  • Thermal conductivity: It dissipates heat well, making it suitable for housings, heat sinks, and enclosures.
  • Machinability: Aluminum machines faster and cleaner than many steels or titanium alloys, which lowers production time and cost.
  • Corrosion resistance: Combined with surface treatments like anodizing, aluminum holds up well in various environments.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Its availability and workability make it a popular option for both prototyping and short-run production.

For aluminum’s versatile properties, it has been used in various industries like medical, electronics, and drone.

Aluminum CNC Machining-Beska Mold

Aluminum Grades in CNC Machining

At Beska, we work with a wide range of aluminum grades. Each has its own mechanical properties and machining characteristics. Here’s an overview:

GradeTemperTensile Strength (MPa)MachinabilityCorrosion ResistanceTypical Applications
6061T6310GoodExcellentGeneral parts, brackets, enclosures
7075T6570FairModerateAerospace parts, structural arms
6082T6340GoodVery GoodTransportation, machine parts
5052H32230FairExcellentSheet metal housings, marine parts
5083H116330PoorExcellentMarine structures, cryogenic tanks
6063T5/T6200–250GoodExcellentArchitectural, heat sinks
2024T3470PoorPoorAerospace skins, fuselage
7050T7451510FairBetter than 7075Aircraft bulkheads
MIC6Cast180ExcellentGoodFixtures, base plates
2017T4420ModeratePoorAerospace, structural parts
2014T6450ModeratePoorHigh-load components

We select tooling strategies and cutting parameters based on the alloy and final use. If you have drawings or material specs, we can advise the most suitable option.

Common Challenges in Aluminum CNC Machining

Precision CNC machining of aluminum often comes with specific challenges. Here are some we tackle regularly: 

Thin wall deformation

Aluminum’s low rigidity makes thin-walled parts prone to flex or distortion during cutting. We reduce cutting forces and apply multi-pass light cuts while optimizing fixturing to maintain dimensional stability and appearance.

Built-up edge and surface scratches

Even with good machinability, 6061 and similar alloys can create burrs or rough textures if chips accumulate. We use high-speed tooling with proper rake angles and apply mist cooling to ensure clean cutting and smooth finishes.

Anodizing inconsistencies

Color uniformity is critical for many customer-facing parts. Pre-treatment issues can affect anodizing results. We apply a consistent bead blasting process before anodizing and closely monitor cleaning to ensure even color tone and finish.

At Beska, these are typical scenarios we manage daily. Our experience allows us to plan ahead and keep aluminum components precise and production-ready.

Aluminum CNC Machining Parts-Beska Mold

Surface Finishing Options for Aluminum Parts

Surface treatments improve durability, appearance, and corrosion resistance of the aluminum machined parts. At Beska, we offer several surface finishing options:

TypeDescriptionEffect/BenefitSuitable GradesPictures
AnodizingCreates a protective oxide layerCorrosion resistance, colored finish6061, 5052, 6082anodizing-finish
Sand BlastingSurface matte treatmentSatin texture, ideal for post-anodizingAll aluminum alloyssandblasting-finish
PolishingMechanical or manual smoothingGlossy surface or mirror finishEnclosures, cosmetic partspolishing CNC machined aluminum parts
ElectroplatingNickel or other metal coatingImproved wear and conductivityRequires pre-treatmentelectroplating-finish
PassivationChemical passivation layerEnhances corrosion resistanceSelect aluminum typespassivation CNC machining aluminum parts
Powder CoatingStatic powder, baked finishDurable and colorful exteriorPanels, outdoor bracketsPowder-Coating for CNC turning parts
Laser EngravingSurface markingPermanent text, logos, and serial numbersAnodized aluminumLaser engraving aluminum machined parts

Let us know your target finish and application environment. We’ll recommend the best surface treatment and share pre/post images if needed. For more surface finishing options, you can click learn more.

Case Study: Aluminum 6061 Brackets for Drone Assembly

A client in the drone industry needed lightweight, rigid brackets made from Aluminum 6061-T6. These parts would connect motors and sensors within a compact airframe.

Case Study Aluminum Anodized CNC Machining Drone Parts

Challenges: The brackets featured thin walls and angled surfaces that were sensitive to cutting pressure; The surface required black anodizing with no visible marks or discoloration; Assembly holes needed to stay within a ±0.01mm tolerance for fitment

What We Did: We selected 5-axis machining to complete multiple faces in one setup and minimize tolerance stacking. Our team tested several clamping strategies to reduce stress. Once machined, all parts underwent uniform bead blasting and were sent for anodizing. Post-finishing, we performed CMM checks and provided the customer with dimensional reports and HD photos for final confirmation.

Result: The customer approved a follow-up order and is exploring converting more components to 6061 CNC brackets.

Related Articles

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FAQ

Standard lead time is 5–7 working days for prototyping. Complex structures or special finishes may require up to 10–15 days.

Yes, but we recommend Type II or Type III anodizing. Color results may not be as even as with 6061.

Yes. Our anodizing, plating, and coating processes can be certified as RoHS-compliant. Third-party reports are available.

We accept STEP, IGES, STP, DWG, DXF, and other major formats. Including both 2D and 3D drawings is ideal for accurate quoting.

6061-T6 is widely considered the best choice for general use. It offers good strength, excellent machinability, and reliable anodizing outcomes.

Yes. We specialize in low-volume production from 1 to 100 pieces. Prototypes can also be iterated quickly based on feedback.

Get A CNC Machining Aluminum Quote!

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