Material choice is a critical aspect of micro CNC machining due to the variability in the properties of each material and their suitability for respective applications. In this section, we will discuss the different materials suitable for micro-precision machining:
Plastics
Micro CNC machining is compatible with various high-performance engineering plastics like Peek, Teflon, and Ultem. Product developers and manufacturers across different industries, including automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics, widely embrace these plastics due to their unique combination of aesthetic appeal, high-temperature resistance, strength, dimensional stability, UV and weather resistance.
Metals
Metals like copper, stainless steel, and titanium are typical micro CNC machining metals. Copper is a common machining material known for its excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. It is a commonly used metal for micro machining electronic components like cooling systems, heat sinks, and printed circuit boards (PCBs).
Stainless steel exhibits high strength and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for precision micro machining of medical devices, orthopedic implants, and surgical instruments. Besides, its compatibility with the sterilization process and durability make it an ideal choice in healthcare.
Titanium is a widely embraced micro-precision machining material in aerospace due to its remarkable strength-to-weight ratio, extreme temperatures, and corrosion resistance properties. Also, medical device manufacturers utilize titanium in micromachining different bodily prosthetics and implants due to its biocompatibility.
Composites
Typical micro CNC machining composites include Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP). Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) and Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC). CFRP is a typical micro machining material known for its lightweight and high-strength properties. This advanced engineering material is suitable for micro-precision machining structural components of aircraft, components of racing cars, and sports equipment.