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  1. Selecting The Best Grade Of Stainless Steel For Machining

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    Stainless steel is used in all types of applications where high resistance to corrosion is a factor to consider. Different grades or alloys of stainless steel offer more or less corrosion resistance across specific types of environments.

    Stainless steel also offers a self-healing surface, which means any scratching or surface damage is healed by the chromium oxide film naturally formed on the surface. For this reason, stainless steel is used in sanitary and hygiene applications. It is also an ideal choice when the strength-to-weight factor is a consideration, as is found in the aerospace industry.

    Finding the best grade of stainless steel for machining is critical when it comes to precision part manufacturing. The team at JBC Machine has extensive experience in working with stainless steel, and we understand how to set up machining processes to ensure precision parts and components for any type of order.

    There are some options to consider in choosing the best grade of stainless steel for machining. The following are two grades of stainless that are used throughout many industries and offer exceptional machining properties.

    • Ferritic stainless steel – considered the best grade of stainless steel for machining for ease, the ferritic stainless steels include the 400 grades. These stainless steels are easy to machine and also offer good corrosion resistance and high thermal conductivity.
    • Austenitic stainless steel – this includes the popular grades 302 and 316. They are resistant to corrosion and used in everything from household utensils to machinery components. While more challenging to machine without experience, we have the equipment and systems to create precision parts.

    If you need assistance in machining any type of stainless steel, give us a call at (920) 779-4075. We have machined all types of materials, including precipitation-hardened and duplex stainless steels.

  2. A Brief Overview Of The Best Plastic For Machining

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    One of the many changes we have seen at JBC Machine is the increase in the orders for plastic parts and components. The various options in plastics on the market make a cost-effective, durable, and very effective replacement for many different types of metal parts and components.

    Plastic also has the added benefit of being completely corrosion resistant. Depending on the specific type of plastic, it can also offer flexibility that metal parts and components cannot provide. Lightweight yet strong, plastic is an excellent option for many different applications.

    Choosing the best plastic for machining is similar to choosing the best metals or alloys. It is important to consider the ease of machining and the properties the plastic needs to have to be effective in the part or component.

    Considerations in Choosing the Best Plastic for Machining

    It may initially seem like softer plastics would be the best plastic for machining. They are indeed easier on cutting tools and equipment. However, the software nature of the plastic also creates the concern of excessive chipping with higher speeds and feed rates.

    Some types of plastics have a low melting point. The friction from the cutting tool can elevate the surface temperature above the melting point, creating problems during the machining process.

    Plastics that are strong enough and have a high melting point to avoid these issues include ABS, ECTFE, Acrylic, PEP, and ETFE. Other good options include HDPE, Nylon, Acetal, and PAI.

    We can work with a wide range of different plastics. Give us a call at (920) 779-4075 if you have any questions.

  3. Tips For Machining Bronze Bushings

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    Bronze is a metal that has historically been used in applications where exposure to water, and specifically to saltwater, is a factor. It is also a good choice when heat or electrical conduction is a consideration due to its copper base.

    Bronze alloys are used in many different types of systems and components. Bronze is a common choice for bearings, bushings, marine components and parts, petrochemical system components as well as electrical connectors.

    At JBC Machine, we have extensive experience in machining bronze bushings and other parts and components. We always customize the machining process to match the type of bronze required for the specific part and application. As there are varying degrees of difficulty in machining bronze bushings, our experience is invaluable in determining the right process to provide precision parts on your schedule.

    Bronze Type

    The first step in developing the ideal method for machining bronze bushings is to know the properties of the specific type of bronze. The basic types include silicon, phosphor, aluminum, manganese, and copper-nickel bronze.

    Generally speaking, when it comes to bushings, the best option is bearing bronze. This bronze has between six and eight percent lead, which means it is durable in high friction or high wear types of applications. Although, depending on the specific application, it may be necessary to consider other types.

    Choice of the Right Tools

    A key consideration with any bronze machining is the use of quality cutting tools. Using top quality cutting tools at the right speed and feed is essential to create the precision measurements required for bushing and bearings.

    If you have any questions about machining any type of bronze components, give us a call at (920) 779-4075.

  4. The Best Aluminum Alloys For Machining

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    When it comes to machining metal alloys, the team at JBC Machine has extensive experience in working with common aluminum alloys and those specialized for use in the automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries. Knowing how to choose the right machining equipment and technique is critical in getting the precision required for any type of part or component.

    General Considerations

    Finding the best aluminum alloys for machining starts with choosing the right alloy grade for a job. In many cases, particularly with aluminum alloys, the workability and the machining are fairly close, which means if the alloy is workable, it is also machinable.

    The specific properties of the alloy, which is a factor of the metals combined in the alloy, as well as the specific type of machining process selected must be carefully considered.

    The Series 6xxx Alloys

    As a general statement, the series 6xxx alloys, including the popular option of 6061, is considered one of the all-purpose types of aluminum alloys with good machinability. At the same time, this is a medium strength alloy, which means it is not always ideal for high pressure, heat, or corrosive types of environments and uses.

    The Series 2xxx Alloys

    Higher levels of copper in this series make it one of the best aluminum alloys for machining. Unfortunately, the higher copper level also makes it more likely to experience higher levels of corrosion unless cladded. This is a common choice for aerospace parts and components.

    The 7xxx Alloys

    Another one of the best aluminum alloys for machining, the 7xxx series, is a good option when strength is a concern. It offers the highest strength levels of any aluminum and good corrosion resistance. As a high strength aluminum alloy, this is often used for structural components in the aerospace industry.