Aluminum is the default CNC material: light, corrosion-resistant, and exceptionally easy to machine. The grade you choose trades strength, weldability, and cost.
6061-T6 — the generalist
The most common grade. Good strength, excellent corrosion resistance, welds well, and machines beautifully. Use it for brackets, frames, enclosures, and most prototypes.
7075-T6 — the strong one
About 40% stronger than 6061 but less corrosion-resistant and not weld-friendly. Choose it for high-stress structural parts where weight matters—drones, robotics, sporting components.
2024-T3 — the fatigue-resistant one
High strength and good fatigue resistance but poor corrosion resistance (often clad). Common in aerospace skins and parts with cyclic loads.
Quick comparison
| Grade | Strength | Corrosion | Machinability | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6061-T6 | Good | Excellent | Excellent | General, prototypes |
| 7075-T6 | High | Fair | Good | High-stress structures |
| 2024-T3 | High | Poor | Good | Aerospace fatigue parts |
FAQ
Which is easiest to machine? 6061, closely followed by 7075. Both deliver great surface finish.
Can I anodize any of them? Yes—6061 and 7075 anodize well; 2024 can but with less uniform color. See the full materials guide.