When it comes to CNC turning services, one of the most important decisions you’ll face isn’t about machine type or tolerance – it’s about material selection. The right material determines not only performance and durability, but also machining cost, lead time, and application suitability.
As a supplier specializing in precision turned components, we’ve helped hundreds of clients across industries choose materials that match both function and budget. This guide is for buyers who know they need turned parts – but aren’t sure what material to use.
Why Material Choice Matters in Turned Parts
Turning is a subtractive process – and some materials are simply better suited than others. The wrong choice can lead to:
- Shorter tool life
- Increased production costs
- Component failure in use
But with the right guidance, you can balance machinability, cost, and performance.
Common Materials for CNC Turned Parts (With Pros & Cons)
🟡 Brass (e.g., C36000)
- Pros: Excellent machinability, corrosion-resistant, good for fittings and connectors
- Cons: Softer, less suitable for high-stress environments
⚪ Stainless Steel (e.g., 303, 304, 316, 416)
- Pros: High strength, corrosion-resistant, good for medical, marine, or food-grade parts
- Cons: Harder to machine, longer lead times, higher tool wear
🔘 Aluminum (e.g., 6061, 7075)
- Pros: Lightweight, easy to machine, cost-effective, ideal for aerospace, electronics
- Cons: Lower strength and wear resistance compared to steel
⚫ Carbon Steel (e.g., 1018, 1045)
- Pros: Strong, tough, widely available
- Cons: Susceptible to corrosion unless plated or coated
🟢 Engineering Plastics (e.g., POM/Delrin, Nylon, PTFE)
- Pros: Low friction, lightweight, chemical-resistant, good for low-load moving parts
- Cons: Lower dimensional stability, heat resistance varies
How to Choose the Right Material (Ask Yourself These Questions)
- What load/stress will the part face?
- High load? Consider stainless steel or carbon steel.
- Will the part be exposed to moisture, chemicals, or heat?
- Yes? Look at stainless steel, PTFE, or aluminum.
- Is weight a critical factor?
- Yes? Aluminum or engineering plastics are better.
- What surface finish or appearance do you want?
- Brass and aluminum give excellent finish without coating.
- What’s your budget per part?
- Brass and carbon steel often strike a good balance between performance and cost.
Our Recommendation Approach
We don’t just machine parts – we help you engineer smart decisions. When you contact us:
- We assess your application (strength, tolerance, function)
- Suggest 2–3 optimized material options
- Explain trade-offs and help minimize cost without compromising performance
Need help balancing corrosion resistance vs. budget? Want to improve strength without switching to hard-to-machine alloys?
We’re here to guide you.
Request a Free Consultation
Send us your drawing or part concept – even if it’s just an idea. We’ll help you pick the right material and quote it in multiple options.
📩 Contact our team today to get started.
Expert in CNC turning and precision components – your trusted supplier for smart material choices.