Materials / Non-Ferrous Metals

Properties of Aluminium and Other Non-ferrous Metals

All metallic alloys containing little to no iron, with the exception of precious metals, are referred to as non-ferrous (NF) metals. These include magnesium, copper, zinc, bronze, brass, and, most importantly, aluminium. Non-ferrous metals are divided into wrought and cast alloys. The former can be worked immediately, whereas the latter must first be shaped into the desired form.

Non-ferrous metals – versatile materials for industrial applications

Non-ferrous metals, particularly aluminum, are versatile materials widely used in industrial applications. Belonging to the ISO N group, aluminum is popular in the engineering and automotive sectors due to its low weight and corrosion resistance. Common aluminum alloys include AlMgSi1, AlZn5.5MgCu, and AlSi9Mg, each with unique challenges:

  • AlMgSi1 (EN AW 6082): A wrought aluminum alloy (material number 3.2315) that is easy to weld, requires low cutting forces, and can be coated with high-quality finishes. It has medium to high tensile strength. Machining challenges include tool adherence, burr formation, and poor chip control.
  • AlZn5.5MgCu (EN AW 7075): A cast aluminum alloy known for its high tensile strength, ease of polishing, and machinability. It is widely used in aerospace, engineering, and tool and die-making applications. Challenges include burr formation, tool adherence, and difficult chip control.
  • AlSi9Mg (EN AC-43300): An age-hardenable AlSi casting alloy (material number 3.2373) with high corrosion resistance and tensile strength after hardening. It is commonly used in automotive and engineering applications, especially for complex cast parts. The primary machining issue is its abrasiveness, leading to increased tool wear.

When machining non-ferrous metals, especially aluminum, it is important to consider material-specific issues such as cutting fluid requirements and burr formation. ZCC Cutting Tools (ZCC CT) offers high-quality, durable turning, milling, and drilling tools for non-ferrous metal applications, ensuring efficient and reliable machining.