Years of experience in precision machining are not enough on their own to meet customers’ needs. Knowing how to choose materials for precision engineering makes the difference. Here’s why.
Which metal makes the strongest, most precise machines and objects? Steel (carbon, alloy and stainless) is certainly the most used material, but it is not the only one.
Which metals are used most? The production of parts in brass, bronze and aluminium shows the importance of diversifying materials in precision engineering.
Given their specific properties, one material may be better suited than another to a certain type of machining. It does not always come down to steel.
How to choose materials for precision engineering
Choosing materials for precision engineering requires assessing the characteristics and properties of each material according to its end use. After studying the technical design, information on the specified material must be gathered and, if appropriate, a better-performing alternative proposed.
Precision engineering companies assess dimensional stability (the ability to hold dimensions in different environmental conditions), mechanical strength (the maximum stress the material can bear before failing), corrosion resistance (resistance to surface deterioration from humidity, water and external agents) and heat resistance (maximum temperature).
This means one material may deform less, keep its properties through the various machining stages and last longer than another. Given the variety of customers’ sectors, appearance and the possible use of complementary techniques to improve the final result must also be considered.
However, analysing material properties is not enough: quality materials must always be used to avoid errors or deviations that could compromise the final result.
The importance of experience
Experience in precision machining is not everything, but it is fundamental to producing quality parts. From machinists to production managers and quality control managers, every step in the precision engineering industry must be controlled.
The part is checked from the very first stages of machining by advanced machines to ensure it matches the technical drawing. To obtain these guarantees, it is essential to work with specialised, experienced companies that go further: high-performance materials, the latest machines, continuous updating and attention to the customer. See the materials we machine.