If you need aluminum parts machined we are one of the most capable and affordable sources, and we can get the job done right.
Aluminum is the third most abundant element in the earth’s crust after oxygen and silicon and is a comparatively new industrial metal, widely used for less than 100 years.
Alloys
Some of the most popular aluminum alloys follow:
6061-0 – Annealed 6061 has maximum tensile strength no more than 18,000 psi.
6061-T4 – T4 temper has an ultimate tensile strength of at least 30,000 psi and yield strength of at least 16,000 psi.
6061-T6 – it is the most commonly used alloy. It has an ultimate tensile strength of at least 42,000 psi and yield strength of at least 35,000 psi.
6063 – Great for extrusions, usually produced with a very smooth surface great for anodizing.
5052 – Very good corrosion resistant, used in marine applications.
7075 – It is aircraft grade. It is strong, with good fatigue strength and average machinability, but not a good corrosion resistant.
Machining
VOHN Precision manufactures aluminum parts using many different processes: Bending, Counter boring, Counter sinking, Drilling, Electrochemical Machining, Knurling, Laser Cutting, Milling, Photochemical Milling, Reaming, Threading & Tapping, Turret Punching, Turning (lathe), Waterjet Cutting and Wire EDM.
Advantages
Aluminum parts are economical, light weight and attractive. Parts made from this metal are often less expensive because they can be machined in less time than many other metals such as steel and do not require additional finishes. As the pure metal is soft, small amounts of copper, magnesium, zinc and other elements are added for strength. It is resistant to corrosion as a thin protective layer is formed when exposed to the atmosphere, preventing surface rust. Aluminum is chemical resistant, easy to machine, and has a high strength to weight ratio – it weighs about one-third as much as steel. It is also a good conductor of electricity and heat, making it ideal for heat sinks, and reflects heat and light, is non-magnetic and is malleable.
Examples
Parts made of this popular metal include electronic device enclosures, containers, lids, handles, auto parts, aircraft parts, marine parts, engine parts, cooking utensils, optical reflectors, lighting fixtures and medical devices.