Aluminium machining: a real challenge with precise solutions

Sin categorizar 1 de July de 2025

Aluminium machining is undoubtedly one of the most complex tasks in the world of industrial machining. Although it is a soft and light metal, its behaviour during cutting processes makes it a real challenge. Its tendency to stick to tools, the abrasiveness of certain alloys (especially those containing silicon) and the complex shapes of the components mean that working with aluminium requires experience, strategy and specialised tools.

From chemical rarity to key material in modern industry

In 1827, chemist Friedrich Wöhler succeeded in producing pure aluminium for the first time. It was a chemical rarity at the time, and this metal was considered more valuable than gold. With the invention of the Bayer process in the late 19th century, aluminium ceased to be a curiosity and became one of the most important structural metals on the planet.

Today, due to its industrial availability, aluminium is the second most widely used structural metal in the world, being essential in sectors such as transport, mechanical engineering, the electrical industry and aeronautics, thanks to properties such as its lightness, corrosion resistance and high thermal and electrical conductivity. However, these advantages do not eliminate the difficulties associated with its machining.

The main challenges of aluminium machining

Burr formation and accumulation on the cutting edge
Abrasiveness in alloys with high silicon content
Need to maintain tight tolerances in complex geometries
High cutting speed with risk of overheating

To meet these challenges, having the right cutting tools for aluminium is crucial.

Solutions for aluminium machining.

At Enriel, we are official distributors of WALTER TOOLS, recognised worldwide for their innovation in machining. Some of our most notable solutions from the brand include:

DC166: Drills with polished geometry to minimise friction and improve chip evacuation
MP060, MP160, MP260 (PCD tools): Milling cutters ideal for abrasive alloys, reducing vibrations and extending service life.
MC267: Versatile for roughing and finishing complex shapes.
MD265: High-performance milling cutter with excellent stability.

→ See our complete range of tools:: https://intranet.enriel.com/es/catalogo/5-herramienta-y-accesorios-de-maquinaria

The secret to success: strategy, training and technical support

Success in aluminium machining does not depend solely on the tools. A
machining strategy tailored to the type of material, the geometry of the component and the machine used is also essential.

At Enriel, we offer more than just products: we provide personalised training and specialised technical advice so that you can optimise your processes and achieve maximum efficiency in series production.

→ Discover our machining advisory service https://enriel.com/en/contact/

¿Problems with aluminium build-up on tools?

When aluminium deposits on the cutting edge, the quality of the machining is immediately affected, causing problems with precision, finish and tool life.

→ Learn how to avoid this problem in this related article👉 ¿La acumulación de aluminio en el borde de sus herramientas está comprometiendo la calidad de su trabajo?