In the production of mechanical components, a key factor that affects the functionality and durability of components is the right choice of material.

Different materials offer specific mechanical properties, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, as well as other characteristics that determine their use in various industries. In this post, we will discuss the most commonly used materials in the production of machine parts.

Metals – the foundation for the production of mechanical components

Metals are the basis for the production of most mechanical components. They are characterized by high strength, resistance to mechanical loads, as well as resistance to corrosion.

Steel

Steel is one of the most commonly chosen materials in the production of machine parts. It exhibits high tensile strength, and when properly processed is resistant to corrosion (especially stainless steel) and has good machinability. Steel is widely used in mechanical engineering, load-bearing structures, bolted parts, and in the automotive and aerospace industries.

• The best for turning is stainless steel 1.4305 (X8CrNiS18-9), also known as AISI 303.
• If the workpieces are to be plated, then 11SMn30 or 11SMnPb30 automatic steel is best.
• For punching, the usual DC01 and DC03 steels are recommended above all, and for stainless steels it is worth going for the following grades:
  • AISI 430 / EN 1.4016 / H17 / X6Cr17
  • AISI 409 / EN 1.4512 / X2CrTi12
  • AISI 441 / EN 1.4509 / X2CrTiNb18

With the right choice of steel grade for a given technological process (turning or punching), you can achieve higher precision machining and obtain more durable parts.

Aluminum – lightness, strength and corrosion resistance in the production of mechanical components

Aluminum is another important material in the production of mechanical components, particularly valued for its light weight. This makes it widely used in the automotive and aerospace industries and in the manufacture of components where lightness and strength are important. Aluminum is also resistant to corrosion. That’s why the material works well in the production of complex, heavy-duty structural components.

Brass and copper – irreplaceable materials in electronics and conductive systems

Brass and copper are materials that are widely used due to their excellent electrical and thermal conductivity properties.

Brass is used in the production of corrosion-resistant and easy-to-machine components, such as connectors, valves. Copper, on the other hand, is widely used in the manufacture of cables and electronic components, thanks to its excellent electrical conductivity.

Choice of materials in the production of mechanical components

The choice of material for manufacturing mechanical components depends on requirements for strength, wear resistance, corrosion resistance and production costs.

The most commonly used materials are metals, plastics, ceramics and composites, each with unique properties tailored to different industries. The right choice of material ensures the durability, functionality and efficiency of mechanical components, which will operate smoothly for a long time.