Introduction to materials for aerospace components in aerospace cnc machining

Aerospace cnc machining can also handle the materials required for aerospace components very well. The extreme environments and use cases experienced by aircraft, helicopters and spaceships require special materials. These materials include titanium, especially grade 2 and grade 5, which can be used in engine components due to their heat resistance and strength. However, titanium is an expensive material and therefore cannot be used in every component of an aircraft.

Alloy steels, especially 4340 and 4130, are also used in the manufacture of aerospace components. 4340 steel is tough and strong, with a very high potential hardness, making it highly suitable for the high loads borne by aircraft landing gears. 4130 steel also features high tensile strength and is used in gears, fasteners and external components. The strength-to-cost ratio of steel, especially when compared with titanium, is favorable. However, steel is a denser and heavier material, which limits its use in aerospace applications. Unlike titanium, steel is prone to corrosion. Therefore, if it is exposed to moisture, it must undergo coating treatment.

Finally, aluminium (7075, 2024 and 6061) has a high strength-to-weight ratio due to its low density. It is also very easy to process - the processing speed is two to three times faster than that of steel. Aluminum 2024 has excellent fatigue resistance, which means it can withstand many load cycles (making it highly suitable for aircraft that have been in use for many years). Aluminum 6061 is a precipitation-hardening aluminum alloy with excellent corrosion resistance and can be found in aircraft wings and fuselages. Aluminum 7075 has both excellent fatigue resistance and corrosion resistance, which leads to its widespread use in aircraft structural components.