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Magnesium CNC Machining Services
Magnesium, a unique metal material in the CNC machine tool workshop, poses high processing risks due to its flammability. Experience in magnesium machining is crucial for engineers.
Expertise in Magnesium CNC machining sets AT-Machining apart, delivering impeccable precision and exceptional quality.
- Certified Materials
- Factory Price
- No Minimum Order
- Fast Turnaround
Save 30% cost on average!
AT-Machining's Capacity and Service for Magnesium CNC machining
With expertise in process safety, AT-Machining provides reliable and precise solutions for Magnesium components.
Our ISO9001-certified machine shop ensures unbeatable accuracy on custom designs, from prototyping to production. Our experienced professionals specialize in CNC services such as milling, turning, and lathe work. Enjoy personalized support and guidance throughout your project for guaranteed success.
| Tolerances | Wall Thickness | Max Part Size | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| The achievable machining tolerances depend on the specific type of Titanium being used, but typically a tolerance of 0.005 inches can be achieved. | It is possible to achieve a minimum wall thickness of 0.03 inches (0.8mm), although this may vary based on the ratio of wall thickness to planar dimension as well as the specific type of titanium being used. | The maximum part size that can be realized is 2000 x 800 x 1000 mm. | The minimum lead time for commonly used titanium is 7 days, but this may vary depending on the specific type of titanium and whether the parts are being manufactured internationally. |
About The Material
Magnesium is a remarkable metal known for its light weight and impressive strength. Often dubbed the “silver-white wonder,” magnesium is the eighth most abundant element on Earth and the third most commonly used metal, following iron and aluminum. It’s a vital component in many of today’s industries, from aerospace to electronics.
When it comes to CNC machining, magnesium stands out due to its ease of machining and its ability to produce intricate and precise components. But what makes magnesium so special? Let’s delve into its key characteristics.
- Lightweight
- High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
- Excellent Machinability
- Good Thermal Conductivity
- Electromagnetic Interference Shielding
- Biocompatibility
The Most Common Grade of Magnesium for CNC Machining
Selecting the right grade of magnesium for CNC machining hinges on the unique needs of the application, whether it’s strength, corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, or budget considerations. We recommend engaging with an informed supplier or manufacturer to pinpoint the optimal magnesium grade tailored to your project’s specifics.
Comparison of common Magnesium Alloys
Magnesium suitable for your project can always be found at AT-Machining
| Tensile Strength Ultimate | Tensile Strength Yield | Elongation at Break | Tensile Modulus (Elastic modulus) | Hardness, Vickers | Feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magnesium AZ31B Alloy | 260 MPa (37,700 psi) | 200 Mpa (29000 psi) | 15% | 44.8 Gpa (6498 ksi) | 88 | Magnesium AZ31B alloy is lightweight and has high machinability. It is often anodized to improve its corrosion resistance. It is an alternative to aluminum alloys due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and is widely available compared to other magnesium grades. |
| Magnesium AZ91D Alloy | 240-250 MPa (35-36 ksi) | 160 MPa (23.20 ksi) | 3-7% | 45 GPa (6526 ksi) | 60-70 | Magnesium AZ91D cast alloy is a high-purity alloy that has excellent corrosion resistance, excellent castability, and good strength. It is the most commonly used magnesium die casting alloy. |
| Magnesium WE43 Alloy | 250 MPa (36,259 psi) | 220-250 Mpa | 2% | 41-45 Gpa | 85-105 | Magnesium Elektron WE43 is a high-strength casting alloy that can be used in temperatures of up to 300°C (572°F). This alloy boasts good mechanical properties coupled with excellent corrosion resistance. |
| Magnesium AM60B Alloy | 225-240 MPa (33-35 ksi) | 130 MPa (18 ksi) | 8-13% | 45 GPa (6526 ksi) | - | Magnesium AM60B cast alloy is known for its excellent ductility, superior energy-absorbing properties, and good strength and castability. |
| Magnesium ZK60A Alloy | 365 MPa (52,900 psi) | 305 MPa (44,200 psi) | 11% | 44.8 GPa (6,498 ksi) | 100 | Magnesium ZK60A is machinable but flammable. Lubricants and fire kits are essential during machining. It's popular in aircraft parts such as brake housings, landing gear, and instrument bodies. |
| Magnesium QE22A Alloy | 260 MPa (37,700 psi) | 195 MPa (28,300 psi) | 3% | 45 GPa (6,530 ksi) | 90 | Magnesium QE22A-T6 alloy is a casting alloy with excellent tensile, fatigue, and creep properties at both elevated and room temperatures. It is weldable and pressure-tight. |
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CNC Machined Magnesium Applications
CNC-machined magnesium components are incredibly adaptable, serving industries like aerospace, automotive, medical, and defense. The precision of CNC machining ensures detailed magnesium parts with strict tolerances, essential for numerous applications.
Aerospace Components
Magnesium's lightweight properties make it ideal for aerospace parts, reducing the overall weight of aircraft. Components include gearbox casings, seat frames, and other structural parts.
Automotive Parts
In the automotive industry, magnesium is used for parts like steering wheel columns, housings, and dashboard structures. Its light weight contributes to fuel efficiency.
Medical Equipment
Magnesium alloys are biocompatible, making them suitable for medical devices like surgical instruments, orthopedic implants, and equipment housings.
Electronics Casings
Magnesium is used in electronic devices such as laptops, cameras, and smartphones for its electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties and lightweight nature.
Military and Defense
Due to its strength-to-weight ratio, magnesium is used in military applications like missile and aircraft components, as well as in equipment housings.
Robotics and Automation
Magnesium parts are used in robotics for their lightweight and high strength, ensuring efficient movement and durability.
Surface Finishes For CNC Machined Magnesium Parts
AT-Machining offers a variety of finishes for your CNC-machined magnesium parts, including Anodizing, Polishing, Passivation, Bead Blasting, Powder Coating, and Plating. Each finish has unique benefits, so choose the one that best fits your needs!
Sand or Bead Blasting
A process where abrasive materials are blasted onto the magnesium part's surface to create a matte or textured finish. It's useful for removing surface imperfections and preparing the part for other finishes.
Anodizing
An electrochemical process that forms a protective oxide layer on the magnesium surface. This layer enhances corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and provides a better adhesive surface for paints and primers.
Chromate Conversion Coating
A chemical process that applies a chromate film onto the magnesium surface. This coating offers improved corrosion resistance, serves as a primer for subsequent coatings, and can provide electrical conductivity.
Passivation
A chemical treatment that forms a protective oxide layer on the magnesium surface, enhancing its corrosion resistance.
Powder Coating
A dry finishing process where a powdered paint is electrostatically applied and then cured under heat. It provides a durable, uniform, and attractive finish.
Plating
Applying liquid paint to the magnesium part for aesthetic appeal and added protection against corrosion.
Polishing
A process that smoothens the magnesium surface to give it a shiny, mirror-like finish. It enhances the part's appearance and can also improve its resistance to corrosion.
Electroplating
A process where a thin layer of metal (like nickel or chrome) is deposited onto the magnesium part using an electrical current. It enhances the part's appearance, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.
Laser Marking
A non-contact process that uses a laser to mark or engrave the magnesium surface. It's ideal for adding logos, barcodes, or other identifiers.
Magnesium CNC Machining Expert
Our team provides top-notch manufacturing services, catering to customers in a variety of different industries.
We excel at taking on projects that range from complex medical devices and aerospace tech to smaller-scale hardware startups or marine robotics – no job is too big or small!
The video on the right shows our factory milling a customized magnesium alloy AZ31B part.
Why Choose AT for Custom CNC Machining?
Saving Your Cost
You will save 30-50% of the cost because of our efficient production capacity and cost control.
Quality Assurance
As an ISO 9001:2015 certificated manufacturing company, we offer SGS, RoHS, material certifications, and inspection report for our customers.
On-demand Production
Our CNC milling services will support you from 1 pcs to 10k+ pcs, no matter prototype, low volume manufacture, or mass production.
High Precision Tolerances
Offering tolerances range from +/-0.001′′ to 0.005′′, depending on client specifications. We are experts in producing custom components.
Material Selection
Choose from 50+ engineering-grade plastics and metals, including ABS, polycarbonate, nylon, PEEK, aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and Steel for diverse part applications and industries.
Fast and Reliably Delivery
Experience dependable and punctual delivery of your products from our CNC facility strategically located in Shenzhen, China, near major shipping ports for seamless transportation and peace of mind.
CNC Machining Magnesium FAQs
What are the benefits of using magnesium in CNC machining?
Magnesium is lightweight, has a high strength-to-weight ratio, and offers excellent machinability, making it ideal for various applications ranging from aerospace to electronics.
Is magnesium safe to machine, given its flammability?
While magnesium is flammable, with the right precautions, such as using specific cutting fluids and maintaining a controlled environment, it can be safely machined.
How does magnesium compare to aluminum in CNC machining?
Magnesium is about two-thirds the density of aluminum. It offers a similar or even better machinability and has a higher strength-to-weight ratio, making it a preferred choice for weight-sensitive applications.
Are there any special considerations when storing magnesium parts?
Magnesium can corrode, especially in humid environments. Storing magnesium parts in a dry place and considering protective coatings to enhance their longevity is essential.
How does the cost of machining magnesium compare to other metals?
While magnesium can be more expensive than some metals, its benefits like lightweight and high strength-to-weight ratio often justify the cost, especially in specific industries like aerospace.
Can magnesium be alloyed with other metals for CNC machining?
Yes, magnesium is often alloyed with elements like aluminum, zinc, and manganese to enhance its mechanical properties.