CNC Machining Aluminium

CNC aluminium machining for industrial applications

Aluminium and its alloys are a key structural material for sectors that need an optimal strength-to-weight ratio. Our engineering production focuses on materials such as EN AW-7075, EN AW-6082 and EN AW-2024, used above all in the aerospace and automotive industries. We machine them on modern machining centres that guarantee compliance with strict geometric specifications to within hundredths of a millimetre.

CNC machining of aluminium calls for a specific approach to cutting conditions and coolant in order to prevent built-up edge forming on the cutting tool. We apply advanced milling and turning strategies that minimise residual stress induced in the workpiece. This lets us reliably prevent distortion of thin-walled components during finishing operations and material release.

We cover the complete technological cycle, from blank preparation through to final surface treatment such as hard anodising to MIL-A-8625. Custom part manufacturing runs under strict metrological control, guaranteeing full conformity with the supplied CAD models and the customer's technical requirements.

Process routes and CNC milling of aluminium alloys

Machining light alloys is dominated by CNC milling, which makes it possible to produce complex 3D shapes and intricate internal cavities. We use solid carbide cutters with special flute geometry optimised for rapid chip evacuation from the cut. Cutting speeds in these operations often exceed 1000 m/min, which substantially shortens machine times and increases production efficiency.

To reach the required surface roughness of Ra 0.8 to Ra 0.4 we apply finishing operations using tools with polished cutting edges. Manufacturing parts to drawing also covers precision drilling, reaming and thread cutting in blind holes. Every process step is programmed in detail in CAM software, accounting for the kinematics of the specific machine.

• EN AW-7075 (AlZn5.5MgCu): An aerospace alloy with tensile strength up to 540 MPa, ideal for highly loaded structural parts.
• EN AW-6082 (AlSi1MgMn): A versatile material with excellent machinability and corrosion resistance, suited to the automotive industry.
• EN AW-5083 (AlMg4.5Mn0.7): An alloy intended for components exposed to aggressive environments, widely used in marine engineering.

Precision metal machining and logistics across Europe

Our production facility is based in Ladce, Slovakia, with direct access to the motorway network. This location lets us respond promptly to customer requirements and ensure smooth delivery of finished components across the European Union. Short transport distances mean lower logistics costs and shorter lead times for our B2B partners.

Logistics processes are fully integrated into our ERP system, ensuring complete traceability of every production batch. From receipt of certified mill material with a 3.1 certificate to EN 10204 through to dispatch of the final products, we maintain strict records. Machined aluminium parts are packed with their susceptibility to mechanical damage in mind, using special interlayers and vacuum films.

Beyond manufacturing itself, we provide design engineers and buyers with technical support in optimising part design to reduce production costs. We analyse tolerance stacks and propose changes that simplify clamping and the machining process itself, with no negative effect on part function.

One-off and series production of aluminium components

The flexibility of our machine park lets us cover both one-off prototype production and medium-sized production batches. In prototyping we emphasise fast delivery and practical verification of the proposed design's manufacturability. For series production we then design dedicated clamping fixtures that minimise non-cutting time and guarantee fully repeatable clamping.

Process stability is critical with aluminium alloys, mainly because of their high thermal expansion. During long production cycles we continuously monitor coolant temperature and compensate for any deviation directly in the machine control system. This keeps dimensional accuracy within the ±0.01 mm tolerance band even when ambient conditions in the shop fluctuate.

• Thermal conductivity: Values around 130 - 230 W/(m·K) require intensive cooling to prevent workpiece overheating.
• Modulus of elasticity: Approximately 70 GPa, which calls for exceptionally careful clamping of thin-walled profiles to avoid deformation.
• Coefficient of thermal expansion: A relatively high 23.1 µm/(m·K), requiring strict temperature control during final measurement.