It is no secret that working with exotic metals can be a difficult task. Materials such as titanium, nitronic steel, and high nickel alloys are prime examples of difficult metals. At Cer-Mac Inc., our CNC turning machinists specialize in machining these incredibly difficult metals.
Working with Exotic Metals
Properties
Exotic metals have several properties that exceed those found in standard metals. The metals have exceptional strength, resistance to corrosion, resistance to high temperatures, and high fatigue strength. There are numerous exotic metals available to fit the specific needs of your machined build. You can pick metals that are better for lightweight, nimble aerospace designs, or you can buy incredibly hard metals that are better suited for downhill drill services.
These specific properties are ideal in areas where exceptional high-performance applications are used; they can cause challenges while working with these exotic metals. The many properties associated with exotic metals make them a durable and long-lasting choice, as they can withstand harsh environments’ effects for prolonged periods versus other metals. Inconel 718 is the perfect example. This metal is becoming the industry standard for downhole drilling for its high strength, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature strength. It will not fail in the field. As it is incredibly dense, it is very hard to machine through.
Working with exotic metals may also require special handling because of their properties. Beryllium Copper needs to be handled with care because it can cause respiratory harm. Specialized tools and experts are necessary because of the enhanced makeup of exotic medals.
Our Machining Services
At Cer-Mac, our professionals provide precision CNC turning and CNC milling services. As noted above, we specialize in machining these exotic materials, especially larger diameter Inconel 718.
CNC Turning
At our Samsung CNC turning center, we promote live tooling, which improves production while maintaining high quality using an independent rotating turret. With this setup, we are able to increase production while guaranteeing a lower possibility of error.
At all of our CNC turning centers, we rely on state-of-the-art technology. The CNC turning manufacturing process is precisely controlled from start to finish. This promotes efficient production, high precision, and faster turnaround times.
CNC turning specialists have experience and understanding of the many machining options for Kovar, Invar, and Inconel machining. Some of the exotic metals we work with include:
- Titanium
- Inconel
- Invar and Kovar
- Nickel
- High-performance stainless steel
The CNC Turning Process
Exotic material is placed inside one of our computer-controlled lathes. The turning machine is then programmed with information about the type of material, required feed and speeds of the inserts, and the final shape and size of the part to be created. Our machining specialists can track the progress as the machine does its job of spinning and cutting the material to produce a precise part.
CNC Milling Service
Our facility also provides clients with precision CNC milling service. Using a variety of materials, including exotic metals, milling is used for a variety of parts, such as bolts, driveshafts, fasteners, axles, bushings, and more. Our CNC milling department uses two machine types: Vertical CNC milling and 5-axis CNC Milling with horizontal CNC milling capabilities.
Vertical CNC Milling
This machine is used for “standard” machining processes, such as cutting slots and drilling holes. The process provides a high accuracy level. The method uses a vertical axis and a rotating cutting tool. While this process offers precision components, it is not the best choice for multi-siding machining.
Horizontal CNC Milling
This process promotes high-volume production. Material is removed from the piece using a rotating cutting tool. This process promotes high production levels and is ideal for multi-sided machining but may not be the best option for more complex projects.
5-Axis CNC Milling
This milling option is ideal for shaping using a multi-angular process that does not limit milling to horizontal or vertical milling only. It can be used to shape more than one side at a time, allowing for more changes to the workpiece in one setup.
Contact Us
For superior CNC turning and milling services, contact our team at Cer-Mac. Our specialists will work with you to ensure we have all the information necessary to create high-quality products. Contact us today for more details.