CNC Machining 1060 (Al99.6) — 1xxx Series Material
This article provides essential technical information about 1060 (Al99.6), a commercially pure aluminum alloy from the 1xxx series. While not as strong as 6061 or 7075, 1060 aluminum offers exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity, excellent corrosion resistance, and superior formability. In precision CNC machining, it is the material of choice for components where conductivity or weight is critical, and mechanical strength is secondary. Understanding its specific machining characteristics is vital for achieving tight tolerances and mirror-like finishes.
Chemical Composition (ASTM B209 / EN AW-1060)
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Aluminum (Al) | ≥ 99.60 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.25 |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.35 |
| Copper (Cu) | ≤ 0.05 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 0.03 |
| Magnesium (Mg) | ≤ 0.03 |
| Zinc (Zn) | ≤ 0.05 |
| Titanium (Ti) | ≤ 0.03 |
| Others (each) | ≤ 0.03 |
Note: The high purity (99.6% min) is the defining characteristic, minimizing galvanic corrosion and maximizing thermal/electrical performance.
Mechanical Properties (Typical for O/H14 Temper)
| Property | Value (O Temper – Annealed) | Value (H14 Temper – Strain Hardened) |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 70 – 90 | 95 – 130 |
| Yield Strength 0.2% Offset (MPa) | 25 – 35 | 75 – 90 |
| Elongation in 50mm (%) | 35 – 45 | 10 – 20 |
| Hardness (HBW) | 20 – 25 | 30 – 35 |
| Modulus of Elasticity (GPa) | 69 | 69 |
| Electrical Conductivity (% IACS) | 62 | 61 |
CNC Machining Parameters
1060 aluminum is very soft and gummy, making chip control the primary challenge. It is prone to built-up edge (BUE) and poor surface finish if parameters are not optimized. The following parameters are recommended for H14 temper:
| Operation | Speed (m/min) | Feed (mm/rev or mm/tooth) | DOC (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turning (Roughing) | 300 – 500 | 0.15 – 0.30 mm/rev | 1.0 – 3.0 |
| Turning (Finishing) | 400 – 600 | 0.05 – 0.10 mm/rev | 0.2 – 0.5 |
| Milling (Roughing) | 400 – 600 | 0.10 – 0.20 mm/tooth | 1.0 – 2.0 |
| Milling (Finishing) | 500 – 700 | 0.03 – 0.08 mm/tooth | 0.2 – 0.5 |
| Drilling | 100 – 200 | 0.05 – 0.15 mm/rev | – |
Applications
- Electrical busbars and connectors (high conductivity)
- Heat sinks and heat exchangers (high thermal conductivity)
- Chemical storage tanks and piping (corrosion resistance)
- Reflectors and lighting components (high polishability)
- Nameplates and decorative trim
- Custom CNC parts for low-stress applications
CNC Machining Tips
Tool Material: Uncoated carbide (ISO K10-K20) with polished flutes to prevent aluminum adhesion. Diamond-like carbon (DLC) coated tools are highly recommended for finishing.
Tool Geometry: Use tools with high positive rake angles (12-15°) and sharp cutting edges. Large relief angles (8-10°) reduce friction.
Coolant: Flood coolant with a high concentration (8-12%) water-miscible emulsion is essential. Mist or air blast can be used for dry machining but risks chip welding. Avoid chlorinated cutting fluids.
Chip Control: Use chip breakers on inserts. For drilling, use a pecking cycle (G73 or G83) with a peck depth of 0.5-1x diameter to break long, stringy chips.
Surface Finish: For a mirror finish (Ra < 0.2 μm), use a single-point diamond tool with a large nose radius (0.8-1.2 mm) at very low feed rates (0.02-0.05 mm/rev).
Heat Treatment: 1060 is not heat-treatable. Strength is achieved only through cold working (H14, H18 tempers). Annealing (O temper) maximizes formability.
Why Choose Professional CNC Machining
Precision CNC machining of 1060 aluminum requires specialized knowledge to manage its soft, gummy nature. From prototype to production, professional machining services ensure consistent quality, tight tolerances (down to ±0.01mm), and optimal surface finish for your 1060 components. Our expertise in chip control and tool selection guarantees burr-free parts and minimal secondary operations.
Published: 2024-05-20
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