CNC Machining 1100 (Al99.0Cu) — 1xxx Series Material
This article provides essential technical information about 1100 (Al99.0Cu), a commercially pure aluminum alloy (99.0% minimum Al) from the 1xxx series. Known for its exceptional corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical conductivity, and excellent formability, 1100 is widely used in precision CNC machining for applications requiring moderate strength and superior surface finish. Dongguan Stirling Metal Products Co., Ltd. specializes in machining this soft, ductile alloy for custom parts in electronics, chemical equipment, and decorative hardware.
Chemical Composition (ASTM B209 / EN 573-3)
| Element | Content (%) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum (Al) | ≥ 99.00 | Balance |
| Copper (Cu) | 0.05 – 0.20 | Minor strengthening; improves machinability slightly |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.95 | Impurity; affects ductility |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.95 | Impurity; combined with Fe |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 0.05 | Trace |
| Zinc (Zn) | ≤ 0.10 | Trace |
| Titanium (Ti) | ≤ 0.05 | Grain refiner |
| Others (each) | ≤ 0.05 | – |
| Others (total) | ≤ 0.15 | – |
Mechanical Properties (Typical, O Temper)
| Property | Value | Standard (ASTM B209) |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 90 – 110 | ≥ 75 |
| Yield Strength (0.2% offset, MPa) | 30 – 45 | ≥ 25 |
| Elongation (%) | 30 – 45 | ≥ 20 |
| Hardness (HBW) | 23 – 32 | – |
| Shear Strength (MPa) | 60 – 70 | – |
| Modulus of Elasticity (GPa) | 69 | – |
| Electrical Conductivity (% IACS) | 59 – 62 | – |
| Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | 222 | – |
CNC Machining Parameters
1100 aluminum is extremely soft and gummy, requiring sharp tools and high cutting speeds to avoid built-up edge (BUE) and poor surface finish. The following parameters are optimized for H13 carbide tools with a polished rake face.
| Operation | Cutting Speed (m/min) | Feed (mm/rev) | Depth of Cut (mm) | Coolant |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turning (rough) | 300 – 500 | 0.10 – 0.25 | 1.0 – 3.0 | Water-miscible (5-8%) |
| Turning (finish) | 400 – 600 | 0.05 – 0.12 | 0.2 – 0.5 | Mist or air blast |
| Milling (rough) | 250 – 400 | 0.08 – 0.20 (mm/tooth) | 1.0 – 2.0 | Water-miscible |
| Milling (finish) | 350 – 500 | 0.04 – 0.10 (mm/tooth) | 0.2 – 0.5 | Mist or air blast |
| Drilling | 100 – 200 | 0.05 – 0.15 | – | Water-miscible |
Applications
- Chemical Equipment: Storage tanks, heat exchanger fins, and piping for food and chemical processing due to high corrosion resistance.
- Electronics: Heat sinks, capacitor cases, and bus bars requiring high electrical conductivity.
- Decorative Hardware: Nameplates, trim, and lighting reflectors where anodizing quality is critical.
- Food Industry: Cookware, utensils, and packaging machinery components.
- Custom CNC Parts: Prototypes, brackets, and enclosures needing tight tolerances and smooth finishes.
CNC Machining Tips
Tool Material: Uncoated or DLC-coated carbide (ISO K10/K20) for sharp edges. Avoid TiN coatings as they increase friction on soft aluminum.
Coating: Diamond-like carbon (DLC) or no coating; polished flutes reduce chip adhesion.
Coolant: Water-miscible coolant at 5-8% concentration for roughing; mist or compressed air for finishing to prevent thermal distortion.
Heat Treatment: 1100 is not heat treatable; use O (annealed) or H14 (strain hardened) tempers. For machining, O temper is preferred for maximum ductility, but H14 reduces gumminess.
Chip Control: Use sharp, positive rake geometries and high feed rates to break chips. Avoid dwell marks that cause work hardening.
Surface Finish: Achievable Ra 0.2 – 0.4 µm with polished tools and high speeds. For anodized parts, a uniform surface is essential.
Why Choose Professional CNC Machining
Precision CNC machining of 1100 aluminum requires expertise in handling soft, gummy materials to avoid burrs, chatter, and poor dimensional accuracy. Dongguan Stirling Metal Products Co., Ltd. employs advanced multi-axis CNC centers, high-pressure coolant systems, and in-process inspection to deliver consistent quality. From prototype to production, we ensure tight tolerances (±0.01 mm) and optimal surface finish for your 1100 components. Our one-stop service includes material sourcing, machining, surface treatment (anodizing, polishing), and quality certification.
Published: 2025-03-21
Turn this machining question into a manufacturable part
Need this material or process for your next CNC project?
Send your STEP, STP, IGES, DXF, PDF, material, quantity, surface finish, and tolerance requirements. We will review manufacturability and reply with practical quotation guidance.
