Aviation CNC machining for aerospace component material introduction
Aerospace CNC machining can also work well with the materials required for aerospace components. The extreme environments and use cases experienced by airplanes, helicopters, and spacecraft require special materials. These materials include titanium, especially grades 2 and 5, which can be used in engine components due to its heat resistance and strength. However, titanium is an expensive material and therefore cannot be used in every part of an aircraft.
Alloy steels, especially 4340 and 4130, are also used to make aerospace components. 4340 steel is tough and strong, with a high potential hardness, which is well suited to the high loads experienced by aircraft landing gear. 4130 steel also has high tensile strength and is used for gears, fasteners, and external components. The strength-to-cost ratio of steel, especially compared to titanium, is favorable, but steel is a denser and heavier material, which limits its use in aerospace applications. Unlike titanium, steel corrodes easily, so if exposed to moisture, it must be coated.
Alloy steels, especially 4340 and 4130, are also used to make aerospace components. 4340 steel is tough and strong, with a high potential hardness, which is well suited to the high loads experienced by aircraft landing gear. 4130 steel also has high tensile strength and is used for gears, fasteners, and external components. The strength-to-cost ratio of steel, especially compared to titanium, is favorable, but steel is a denser and heavier material, which limits its use in aerospace applications. Unlike titanium, steel corrodes easily, so if exposed to moisture, it must be coated.
Finally, aluminum (7075, 2024, and 6061) has a high strength-to-weight ratio due to its low density. It is also very easy to machine – two to three times faster than steel. Aluminum 2024 has good fatigue resistance, which means it can withstand many load cycles (ideal for aircraft that are used for many years). Aluminum 6061 is a precipitation-hardened aluminum alloy with good corrosion resistance and can be found in aircraft wings and fuselages. Aluminum 7075 combines good fatigue and corrosion resistance, which leads to its popular use in aircraft structural components.
Whatsapp
Email