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The Differences In Aluminum And Titanium Machining

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By jbc-admin

At JBC Machine, we have extensive experience in working with a variety of metals and materials. Two of the most durable and long-lasting materials used in manufacturing and fabrication today include aluminum and titanium.

Both are extremely durable and strong and offer resistance to corrosion, warping, and issues with stress. However, there are differences in the density of the two, with titanium heavier and denser, which means it is not always the best choice. When a strength to weight ratio is a concern, such as in the aeronautics and space industry, aluminum may be the better option.

Machining Of Aluminum and Titanium

There are a variety of methods that we use for the machining of both aluminum and titanium. Depending on the type of part required, CNC turning or CNC milling can be used to create precision parts to any tolerances or requirements.

Both CNC milling and turning are fast processes once the prototype file is developed. Aluminum, due to the nature of the alloy, is very easy to machine with standard cutting tools. Titanium is more challenging as it quickly dulls cutting tools and almost “sticks” to the surfaces. Careful monitoring of the cutting tools when machining or turning titanium is essential to maintain exact tolerances.

The cost difference between titanium and aluminum is always a factor in choosing the machining process. The higher cost of titanium means prototypes can be made from aluminum, with the intent to then machine parts from titanium once the prototyping process is complete.

For more information on the machining of titanium and aluminum, call on the experts at 920-779-4075.

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