Milling cutter machining a metal part under a spray of blue coolant

Material Guide

Aluminum 6061 and 7075

The default choice for machined bodies, chassis and housings — light, fast to cut, and the only listed material that takes Type II and Type III anodizing.

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Overview

Why Choose This Material

Most GRACTS parts are aluminum, because it machines cleanly, keeps weight down in the hand, and anodizes in colour.

Machines quickly, which keeps small-batch cost down
Light enough for parts that are carried or held
Takes Type II and Type III anodizing in colour
6061 for general bodies and housings, 7075 where more strength is wanted

Trade-Offs

What To Watch For

Anodizing adds thickness — mark critical bores and threads on the drawing
Softer than steel, so threads in aluminum wear faster under repeated cycling
Colour can vary between separate anodizing batches — order colour-matched parts together

Every point above is a design decision, not a warning. Raise it while the drawing is still open and it costs nothing to solve.

Specifications

Aluminum 6061 and 7075 Machining Data

Grades machined	6061, 7075
Typical use	Hilt bodies, chassis plates, EDC bodies, housings, mounting blocks
Standard tolerance	±0.05 mm
Tight tolerance	±0.01 mm
Finishes available	Anodizing Type II and III, powder coating, mirror polish, brushed
Minimum order quantity	1 piece
Mechanical property data	TBC — request a certificate with your order

FAQ

Aluminum 6061 and 7075 Questions

Should I use 6061 or 7075?

6061 is the general-purpose choice for bodies and housings. 7075 is used where more strength is wanted. Tell us how the part is loaded and it will be recommended against your drawing.

Can aluminum parts be anodized in colour?

Yes. Anodizing in Type II and Type III is offered. Send a colour reference with the order.

What tolerance can you hold in aluminum?

±0.05 mm as standard, and ±0.01 mm on high-precision features.

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