The quality of the final product can be greatly impacted by the kind of steel that is used for CNC turning. For instance, you can run into issues with tool wear, clatter, and surface flaws if you pick a steel that is too tough to machine. A part may lack the necessary strength or hardness if the steel is excessively soft. The following steel types are suitable for CNC turning:

Alloy steel is steel that has been alloyed with other elements, such as chromium, molybdenum, and nickel, to improve its properties. A great deal of characteristics, such as high strength, toughness, resistance to corrosion, and resistance to wear, can be engineered into alloy steels. For CNC-turned parts like those for automobiles, aircraft, and oil and gas, alloy steels are frequently employed.

Low carbon steel is a mild steel that is easy to machine and has good weldability. It is a fantastic option for general-purpose applications because it is also reasonably priced. Shafts, gears, and bushings that are CNC turned frequently employ low-carbon steel. Compared to low-carbon steel, medium-carbon steel is harder and stronger. Although it is more challenging to machine, it may be tempered and hardened to obtain even higher levels of strength and hardness. Axles, crankshafts, and camshafts that are CNC turning frequently use medium carbon steel.

Tool steel is a type of steel that has been alloyed with elements such as tungsten, molybdenum, and vanadium to give it high hardness and wear resistance. Die sets, cutting tools, and other instruments used in the machining of other materials are made from tool steels. Tool steels can be CNC turned to achieve very fine tolerances and excellent finishes, however, they are often more difficult to process than other varieties of steel.

Stainless steel is a type of steel that has been alloyed with chromium to give it excellent corrosion resistance. Stainless steels are a fantastic option for CNC turning products that need these qualities because they are also strong and durable. Stainless steels are frequently utilized in CNC-turned components, including naval hardware, food processing machinery, and medical implants.

When the incorrect kind of steel is used for a certain application, it can cause issues like early part failure, machining challenges, or even safety risks. For instance, it can corrode and fail sooner if you use steel that is not resistant to corrosion. Insufficiently strong steel can crack when under pressure. You can steer clear of these issues by selecting the appropriate steel for the task and being aware of what types of steel are compatible with CNC turning.