Stainless Steel CNC Machining
Fathom can help you get the best results from stainless steel CNC machining, a popular method for processing this easy-to-machine yet remarkably durable metal. Stainless steel is a versatile metal that is valued for its high tensile strength, durability, corrosion resistance and beautiful finish. Its strength can be increased via cold hardening and heat curing. It can be formed and machined into intricate shapes without weakening. These qualities make it a popular choice for the automotive, medical and aerospace industries. Stainless steel CNC machining is part of the extensive CNC services Fathom offers from several of its facilities across the U.S.
What are the Benefits of Stainless Steel CNC Machining?
Machinability
The versatility of stainless steel enables it to be fabricated using multiple methods, including cutting, welding, bending and forming. However, because of its hardness, stainless steel CNC machining requires the right tools and expertise for best results.
Corrosion Resistance
Stainless steel is naturally resistant to corrosion because it contains chromium. It reacts with oxygen to form a thin protective oxide layer on the surface. It makes the surface electrochemically passive in corrosive environments. The more chromium the steel contains, the greater its corrosion resistance.
Durability
Stainless steel is a lightweight material compared to other metals. Yet it’s exceptionally tough and durable.
Tensile Strength
When compared with mild steels, stainless steels have greater tensile strength. Stainless steel alloys provide enhanced characteristics for specific applications. Common alloys include iron, chromium and nickel. Talk to a Fathom expert for help selecting the right material for your stainless steel CNC machining needs.
Aesthetics
Stainless steel provides a bright, reflective surface that is modern and attractive. It’s available in several finishes, including brushed, polished, and satin. This gives designers additional options for creating different aesthetic effects with this versatile material.
Hygiene
Stainless steel is very hygienic because its smooth, non-porous surface is easy to clean and sanitize. It also prevents the build-up of grime and bacteria on its surface. These factors make it a popular choice for medical devices and equipment.
What Types of Stainless Steel Does Fathom Offer for CNC Machining?
Fathom offers these materials for stainless steel CNC machining as part of its CNC services:
- Alloy 302 // Stainless steel 302 is a high carbon alloy. 302 is known for its machinability, toughness, and corrosion resistance. Applications of stainless steel 302 include cryogenic components, items for food and beverage use, and pressure vessels.
- Alloy 303 // Stainless steel 303 is an austenitic stainless steel alloy that includes sulfur. 303 is easy to machine, grind, and polish. Applications include architectural components, nuts, bolts, aerospace parts, etc.
- Alloy 304 // Stainless steel 304 is a widely used material. 304 is easy to form, weld, and machine. Applications include sinks, saucepans, and parts for the industrial, architectural, and transportation industries.
- 17-4 PH Stainless Steel // 17-4 stainless steel is another widely used raw material. 17-4 offers hardness, corrosion resistance, and excellent tensile strength and can be used in high-temperature environments. Applications include chemical processing components, ball bearings, fasteners, gate valves, etc.
- Alloy 400 Series // 400 series stainless steel is composed of chromium, carbon, and nickel. Alloy 400 offers excellent corrosion and wear resistance and good weldability. Applications include chemical processing components, marine industry, propeller shafts, electronic components, salt and freshwater tanks, piping, etc
Fathom’s Locations
for Stainless Steel CNC Machining
Fathom’s manufacturing network has four locations across the United States with CNC services. They are:
ARIZONA
444 W. 21st St. Ste. 101
Tempe, AZ 85282
ILLINOIS
1401 Brummel Avenue
Elk Grove, IL 60007
MINNESOTA
13758 Johnson Street NE
Ham Lake, MN 55304
TEXAS
1513 Sam Bass Rd
Round Rock, TX 78681
Industries
Stainless steel’s beauty and versatility make it a popular choice of many industries, including:
- Automotive
- Marine
- Transportation
- Architectural and construction
- Food and beverage production
- Medical
- Aerospace
- Military
Applications
- Pressure vessels
- Heat exchanger
- Architectural components
- Aerospace parts
- Appliances
- Chemical processing equipment
- Valves
- Piping
- Cutlery
- Cookware
- Surgical implants
Why Choose Fathom’s CNC Machining Services?
Fathom has the expertise and technology to help you meet your needs faster.
Fathom has an unmatched depth of expertise in stainless steel CNC machining and the capacity to take on your projects. Fathom also has certifications at several of our locations to meet the highly specialized needs of your medical, aerospace or government industries, including ISO 13485, AS9100 and ITAR. View our certifications by location →
Our Fathom Experts recognize the value of having design and manufacturing collaboration at any stage in the product development process, and a DfM analysis is available with every quote. Our diverse group of engineers, designers and builders help you navigate the right process, materials and more for each stage of your product development – from design and prototyping to validation for mass production.
