2026-02-21 / 7 min read
Choosing Aluminum Alloys for CNC and Sheet Metal Parts
Compare 6061, 7075, 2024, 5052, and MIC-6 by strength, machinability, forming, and finish.
6061 is the default workhorse7075 is for strength5052 is a sheet metal favorite
Materials
Choosing Aluminum Alloys for CNC and Sheet Metal Parts
Compare 6061, 7075, 2024, 5052, and MIC-6 by strength, machinability, forming, and finish.
6061 is the default workhorse
6061-T6 balances price, machinability, strength, and finish options for many CNC parts.
7075 is for strength
7075-T6 is useful for high-strength lightweight parts, but it costs more and may require careful corrosion protection.
5052 is a sheet metal favorite
5052 forms well and is common for bent enclosures, brackets, covers, and panels.