Picking material early prevents expensive redesigns. Walk this checklist before you request a quote.
1. What does the part do?
Load, wear, and contact drive the choice. A static bracket and a bearing seat need different materials entirely.
2. What environment?
Outdoor, marine, food, or chemical exposure points to stainless, anodized aluminum, or PEEK. Indoor structural parts can use plain 6061.
3. How does it need to look?
Visible parts may need a specific finish or color—anodizing on aluminum, bead blast on stainless, or a clear coat on plastic.
4. Machinability and cost
Aluminum and brass are cheap and fast. Titanium and PEEK cost more in material and machine time. Balance performance against budget.
5. Post-processing
Will it be anodized, plated, or painted? Confirm the grade supports the finish you want—see the full materials guide.
FAQ
Can I change material after prototyping? Often yes, but re-check tolerances and wall thickness—densities differ.
Who helps me decide? Our engineering review confirms material and grade during project setup.