Requirements for CNC Machining of Aerospace Parts:
For CNC machining of aerospace parts, the machining is very strict, and the machining process includes milling, turning,grinding, boring and etc. There are relevant requirements for dimensions and specifications, and CNC machining of aerospace precision is also relatively high. For example, how many μm is the positive and negative pole of 1mm, etc. If the dimensions and specification does not meet the requirement, it will become waste. At this time, it means that it has to be processed again, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and sometimes even all the raw materials for processing are damaged, which leads to increased costs. At the same time, the parts are definitely unusable.
CNC machining is a versatile and precise manufacturing method, but it’s not suitable for all materials—especially in the aerospace industry. Certain materials can be too hard, exceeding the strength of both the part being machined and the cutting tools, leading to breakage and other issues. Therefore, selecting the right material is crucial for aerospace CNC machining, unless alternative methods, such as fiber laser cutting, are employed.
Aerospace materials are generally categorized into two groups: metal composites and non-metallic materials.
Material Categories:
1.Metal Composites:
Stainless steel is known for its high strength and durability, making it suitable for many aerospace components.
Cast iron, copper, and aluminum follow in strength hierarchy, with aluminum being the most lightweight and often preferred for non-structural components.
2.Non-Metallic Materials:
Materials like porcelain and specialized composites also fall into this category, offering distinct properties for aerospace applications where weight or flexibility is critical.
Key Considerations for Material Selection:
A.Material Hardness:
The material must not be harder than the cutting tool or the part being machined. If the material exceeds the hardness of the tool, it can lead to breakage or damage during the machining process. While harder materials may offer better durability, their machinability is limited.
B.Strength Relative to the Machined Part:
The material’s hardness should be slightly lower than the strength of the part or tool. Additionally, the material selection should be guided by the component’s intended function. Overly hard materials may be too difficult to machine, while overly soft materials might not meet performance requirements.
