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S235JR (St 37-2, 1.0038) is a general-purpose structural steel used for simple CNC machined parts such as base plates, brackets, frames, mounts and welded assemblies where CNC milled parts are primarily needed and CNC turned parts are straightforward. Advantages are low cost, wide availability, good formability and weldability, making it practical for functional components that do not require high strength. Disadvantages are comparatively low mechanical performance, variable machinability depending on batch and condition, and poor corrosion resistance, so coating is often required for durable CNC machined parts.

S355J2+N (ST 52-3, 1.0570) is a common choice for CNC machining of structural CNC machined parts such as machine frames, brackets, mounts, base plates and welded fabrications where higher strength than S235 is needed, typically as CNC milled parts and also as CNC turned parts for pins and shafts. Advantages include good strength and toughness, reliable availability, and solid weldability, making it a practical engineering steel for heavy-duty components. Disadvantages are limited corrosion resistance, higher cutting forces than free-machining grades, and variable surface finish potential depending on supply condition, so coatings and realistic cosmetic expectations are important.

40CrMnNiMo8-6 (Tool Steel MCMS, 1.2312) is typically used for CNC machining of plastic injection mold bases, frames, insert plates, holders and general tooling components where you want ready-to-machine, pre-hardened stock for CNC milled parts and CNC turned parts. The big advantages are that it’s supplied quenched and tempered, offers high toughness and dimensional stability, and the sulfur addition improves machinability and chip control, which helps shorten cycle times in CNC Milling and CNC Turning. Key drawbacks are only moderate corrosion resistance (not a stainless grade), generally poor weldability, and reduced polishability compared to low-sulfur mold steels, so it’s not ideal when mirror-grade surfaces are required.

42CrMo(S)4 (4140, 1.7227) is a versatile alloy steel for CNC machining of shafts, axles, bolts, clamps, machine components and highly loaded adapters, produced as both CNC turned parts and CNC milled parts when strength and toughness are required. Advantages include high mechanical strength, good fatigue resistance and broad availability in different heat-treatment conditions, which makes it a reliable default for demanding CNC machined parts. Disadvantages are higher weight than aluminium, the need for corrosion protection in many environments, and noticeably higher cutting forces and tool wear compared to free-machining steels.

11SMn30/9SMn28 (1215/1213, 1.0715) is a classic free-machining steel for high-volume CNC turned parts like bushings, spacers, fittings, pins and small shafts, and it also works well for straightforward CNC milled parts where maximum productivity matters more than peak strength. Advantages are excellent machinability, very short chips, high cutting speeds and clean surfaces, which makes it ideal for cost-effective CNC machining with tight cycle times. Disadvantages are comparatively low strength and toughness, reduced weldability, and limited corrosion resistance, so it is not suited for heavily loaded or outdoor CNC machined parts without protection.

9SMnPb36 (12L14, 1.0737) is a top choice for ultra-efficient CNC machining of high-volume CNC turned parts such as fittings, screws, bushings, spacers and precision pins, and it also performs well for simple CNC milled parts with many drilled or tapped features. Advantages are outstanding machinability, excellent chip breaking, very low cutting forces and consistently clean surfaces, which enables fast CNC Turning and CNC Milling with tight tolerances at low cost. Disadvantages include low strength and impact toughness, poor weldability, and limited corrosion resistance, plus the lead content can be problematic for compliance or industry restrictions depending on the application.

16MnCr5 (AISI 5115, EC80, 1.7131) is commonly used for CNC machining of gears, sprockets, shafts, bushings and wear-critical machine elements that will be case hardened, with pre-machining done as CNC turned parts and CNC milled parts before heat treatment. Advantages are excellent suitability for carburizing, a tough core with a hard wear-resistant surface after hardening, and good fatigue performance for drivetrain-style CNC machined parts. Disadvantages are that properties depend strongly on heat treatment, distortion during carburizing and quenching can be significant, and corrosion resistance is low without coating.

X2CrNiMo17-12-2 (V4A, AISI 316, 1.4401) is a go-to stainless steel for corrosion-critical CNC machined parts such as valves, fittings, marine hardware, chemical-processing components and medical-grade housings, produced as both CNC milled parts and CNC turned parts. Advantages include excellent resistance to chlorides and many chemicals compared to 304, strong long-term durability, and good suitability for hygienic applications with high surface quality requirements. Disadvantages are challenging CNC machining due to work hardening, heat concentration and stringy chips, plus higher material and machining cost than 304 or carbon steels.

X8CrNiS18-9 (AISI 303, 1.4305) is a free-machining stainless steel used for efficient CNC machining of fittings, screws, bushings, spacers and precision shafts, especially for high-volume CNC turned parts with secondary CNC milled parts like flats and drilled features. Advantages are excellent machinability for a stainless grade, good chip breaking and fast cycle times in CNC Turning and CNC Milling, while still providing useful corrosion resistance for indoor and mildly corrosive environments. Disadvantages are reduced corrosion resistance and lower toughness than 304 due to the sulfur addition, and weldability is generally poor, so it is not ideal for welded or chloride-exposed CNC machined parts.

X2CrNiMo17-12-2 (AISI 316L, 1.4404) is commonly used for corrosion-critical CNC machined parts such as medical and pharma components, food-processing hardware, marine fittings and chemical-industry parts, produced as CNC milled parts and CNC turned parts when long-term resistance and cleanability matter. Advantages include excellent chloride and chemical resistance plus improved weldability versus 316 due to the low-carbon grade, reducing sensitization risk in welded assemblies. Disadvantages are demanding CNC machining from work hardening, heat buildup and stringy chips, along with higher cost than 304 and longer cycle times for tight-tolerance CNC machined parts. For CNC Turning and CNC Milling, we use sharp, wear-resistant carbide tools, keep feed stable to avoid rubbing, apply high coolant flow and chip breaking strategies, and minimize dwell time to prevent work hardening that quickly impacts tool life and surface finish.

X6CrNiMoTi17-12-2 (AISI 316Ti, 1.4571) is used for CNC machined parts like exhaust and high-temperature process components, chemical-industry fittings, clamps and housings where 316-level corrosion resistance is needed with improved stability at elevated temperatures, produced as CNC milled parts and CNC turned parts. Advantages include strong resistance to chlorides and many chemicals plus better intergranular corrosion behavior after thermal exposure thanks to titanium stabilization, which is useful for welded or heat-affected assemblies. Disadvantages are higher material cost and challenging CNC machining due to work hardening, heat concentration and stringy chips, often leading to shorter tool life than free-machining stainless grades. For CNC Turning and CNC Milling, we use sharp coated carbide tooling, maintain consistent chip load to avoid rubbing, apply ample coolant and reliable chip breaking, and avoid dwell or re-cutting chips to keep surface quality and tolerances stable on CNC machined parts.

X20Cr13 (AISI 420, 1.4021) is a martensitic stainless steel used for CNC machined parts like shafts, valve components, pump parts, wear faces and tooling-style components where higher hardness is needed, often as CNC turned parts with additional CNC milled parts for keyways, flats or pockets. Advantages include the ability to heat treat to high hardness and good wear resistance, with better corrosion resistance than carbon steels in mild environments. Disadvantages are lower corrosion resistance than 304/316, reduced toughness at higher hardness levels, and machining difficulty increases strongly after hardening.

Titanium Grade 5 Ti-6Al-4V (3.7165) is used for high-performance CNC machined parts such as aerospace brackets, lightweight structural components, medical implants, motorsport hardware and high-strength fasteners, produced as both CNC milled parts and CNC turned parts where strength-to-weight is critical. Advantages include very high strength, excellent fatigue performance and strong corrosion resistance, enabling compact designs with long service life. Disadvantages are higher material and machining cost, low thermal conductivity that drives heat into the tool, and a tendency for tool wear and surface damage if parameters are too aggressive.

POM-C (Delrin, acetal copolymer) is commonly used for low-friction, dimensionally stable CNC machined parts like bushings, gears, sliders, spacers, valve components and precise mechanical housings. Advantages include high stiffness for a polymer, good wear behavior, low moisture absorption and reliable tolerances, making it a strong choice for functional CNC milled parts and CNC turned parts in automation and machinery. Disadvantages are limited high-temperature performance, sensitivity to strong acids and oxidizers, and lower impact toughness than some engineering plastics, depending on design. When selecting POM-C CNC machined parts, consider contact pressure and wear pairing, whether food-contact or low-noise requirements apply, and if humidity, chemicals or elevated temperatures suggest alternatives like PA, PEEK or filled grades.

PEEK is used for high-end CNC machined parts in aerospace, medical, electronics and chemical equipment, especially for lightweight components that must handle heat, chemicals and continuous mechanical load. Key advantages are excellent strength and stiffness for a polymer, high temperature capability, outstanding chemical resistance and very good long-term dimensional stability, making PEEK suitable for demanding CNC machined parts where metals are too heavy or reactive. Disadvantages are high material cost and, depending on the application, lower thermal conductivity and surface hardness than metals, which can limit extreme wear or heat dissipation requirements. When specifying PEEK CNC machined parts, clarify whether unfilled or reinforced grades (glass or carbon fiber) are needed for stiffness and creep resistance, and account for mating surfaces, tolerances across temperature, and regulatory needs (for example medical or aerospace documentation).

PA6 (Nylon) is widely used for tough, lightweight CNC machined parts such as bushings, sliders, rollers, wear pads, covers and general mechanical components where impact resistance and abrasion performance matter. Advantages include good toughness, low friction, good wear behavior and an attractive cost-performance ratio for functional CNC machined parts in machinery and automation. Disadvantages are moisture absorption and resulting dimensional change, plus reduced stiffness and strength at elevated temperatures compared with higher-end polymers like PEEK. When specifying PA6 CNC machined parts, consider whether the application tolerates moisture-driven size changes, whether a stabilized or filled grade is needed for stiffness and wear, and if exposure to water, heat or tight fits suggests PA12, POM-C or PEEK instead.

PA66-GF30 (Nylon 66 with 30% glass fiber) is used for stiff, load-bearing CNC machined parts such as structural brackets, mounts, housings, support elements and mechanically stressed components in automation and equipment. Advantages include significantly higher stiffness and strength than unfilled nylon, improved creep resistance and good temperature capability for a polymer, making it suitable for durable CNC machined parts under sustained load. Disadvantages are more brittle behavior than unfilled PA, potential fiber-related surface roughness, and continued moisture sensitivity that can influence dimensions and properties over time. When specifying PA66-GF30 CNC machined parts, check impact and vibration demands, define tolerances with humidity and temperature in mind, and consider wear interfaces and mating materials since glass fiber can increase abrasion on counterparts.

PE 300 (PE-HD) is commonly used for chemically resistant CNC machined parts such as tanks and vessel components, liners, guides, wear strips, sliders and food-industry parts where toughness and moisture immunity matter. Advantages include excellent chemical resistance, very low water absorption, strong impact toughness and good suitability for contact with many media, making it a pragmatic choice for durable CNC machined parts. Disadvantages are relatively low stiffness, higher thermal expansion and creep under constant load, so it is not ideal for tight tolerance or highly loaded interfaces. When specifying PE-HD CNC machined parts, consider temperature range, allowable deformation over time, and whether higher stiffness or wear performance calls for UHMW-PE, POM-C or PEEK, especially for precision fits and sliding applications.

PE 1000 (PE-UHMW) is widely used for highly wear-resistant CNC machined parts such as guides, chain rails, slide plates, hopper liners, wear strips and conveying components where low friction and impact toughness are critical. Advantages include outstanding abrasion resistance, very low coefficient of friction, excellent impact strength and strong chemical resistance, which makes it ideal for long-life sliding and bulk-handling applications. Disadvantages are low stiffness, pronounced creep under sustained load and relatively high thermal expansion, so precision fits and load-bearing structures can be challenging. When specifying PE-UHMW CNC machined parts, focus on contact pressure and long-term deformation limits, define tolerances with temperature movement in mind, and consider alternatives like POM-C or PEEK if higher rigidity or dimensional stability is required.

ABS is a cost-effective option for CNC machined parts such as housings, covers, fixtures, prototypes and functional components where good impact resistance and a clean, paintable surface are important. Advantages include good toughness, decent stiffness, attractive surface appearance and broad applicability for CNC machined parts in enclosures and general mechanical designs. Disadvantages are limited heat resistance compared to engineering plastics, moderate chemical resistance, and sensitivity to UV and weathering, so it is typically better for indoor use. When specifying ABS CNC machined parts, consider operating temperature, exposure to oils and solvents, and whether higher strength, flame ratings or outdoor durability suggest alternatives like PC, PA, or PEEK.

PP (Polypropylene) is commonly used for chemically resistant CNC machined parts such as fluid-handling components, laboratory and process parts, lightweight housings and insulating elements where low density and media resistance are key. Advantages include excellent resistance to many acids and bases, very low moisture absorption, good fatigue behavior (living-hinge style flexibility) and an attractive cost profile for CNC machined parts. Disadvantages are lower stiffness and creep resistance than many engineering plastics, limited low-temperature impact performance, and relatively high thermal expansion, which can affect precision fits. When specifying PP CNC machined parts, consider sustained load and deformation limits, operating temperature range, and whether reinforced or alternative materials like PVDF, POM-C or PEEK are needed for higher rigidity, tighter tolerances or harsher service conditions.

PVDF is a premium choice for chemically demanding CNC machined parts such as valve bodies, pump components, manifolds, fittings, and semiconductor or pharma fluid-handling hardware where purity and long-term media resistance matter. Key advantages are excellent resistance to many acids, bases and oxidizers, good temperature capability, and better UV and weathering stability than PP, making it suitable for durable outdoor or process-exposed CNC machined parts. Disadvantages are higher cost than PP/PE, lower stiffness than metals, and potential brittleness or creep under sustained load depending on temperature and design. When specifying PVDF CNC milled parts or CNC turned parts, define the exact media and temperature profile, pressure and sealing concept, purity/compliance needs (for example semiconductor or food-contact), and allow for thermal expansion and long-term dimensional stability in precision fits.

PMMA (acrylic) is widely used for transparent CNC machined parts such as covers, inspection windows, light guides, display components and optical-style housings where clarity and aesthetics matter. Advantages include excellent optical transparency, good surface appearance and good UV stability, making it a strong choice for visually critical CNC machined parts. Disadvantages are brittleness compared to polycarbonate, limited impact resistance, and moderate chemical resistance, especially to solvents, so it is less suited for harsh industrial cleaning or high-impact environments. When specifying PMMA CNC machined parts, consider impact and vibration loads, exposure to cleaning agents and oils, and whether polycarbonate is a better alternative when toughness and safety margins are the priority.

PET is used for CNC machined parts such as precision insulating components, wear strips, sliders, spacers and mechanical parts where good dimensional stability and a clean surface are required. Advantages include low moisture absorption, good stiffness, good wear behavior and reliable tolerances, making PET suitable for functional CNC machined parts in automation and general engineering. Disadvantages are lower temperature capability and impact toughness than higher-end polymers, and chemical resistance is good but not universal, so media compatibility should be checked. When specifying PET CNC machined parts, consider sustained load and wear pairing, operating temperature range, and whether PETG, POM-C or PEEK is a better fit for higher toughness, lower friction or higher thermal demands.

PC (polycarbonate) is a common choice for tough, transparent CNC machined parts like machine guards, protective covers, inspection windows, sensor housings and electrical enclosures where impact safety matters more than perfect optics. Key advantages are very high impact strength, good temperature capability and good clarity, making it ideal for durable CNC milled parts and functional CNC turned parts that must survive knocks and vibration. Disadvantages include scratch sensitivity, potential UV yellowing without stabilization, and susceptibility to stress cracking with certain cleaners, oils or solvents. When specifying PC CNC machined parts, define optical and surface requirements early (for example scratch-resistant coating or protective films), confirm chemical and cleaning compatibility, and choose UV-stabilized or flame-rated grades where the application demands it.

PVC-U (unplasticized PVC) is widely used for corrosion-resistant CNC machined parts such as pipe and duct components, flanges, fittings, valve parts, covers and insulating elements in water, chemical handling and building-services applications. Advantages include good resistance to many acids and bases, good electrical insulation, low water absorption and an attractive cost level for practical CNC machined parts. Disadvantages are limited temperature capability, reduced impact toughness in cold conditions, and weaker resistance to many solvents and aromatic hydrocarbons compared to PVDF or PP. When specifying PVC-U CNC machined parts, define the exact media and temperature range, check pressure and long-term creep requirements, and consider UV exposure and fire behavior depending on the installation environment.

Brass CuZn39Pb3 (2.0401, HPb59-3) is commonly used for CNC machined parts such as fittings, valves, threaded inserts, adapters, bushings and precision connector components, especially when reliable sealing surfaces and high-volume CNC turned parts are needed. Advantages include very good corrosion resistance in many water and indoor environments, good dimensional stability, and strong suitability for precise, repeatable CNC machined parts with clean features. Disadvantages are limited strength compared to steels, potential dezincification risk in certain waters unless the right grade is selected, and lead content that can be restricted for drinking-water or regulated applications. When specifying CuZn39Pb3 CNC machined parts, confirm compliance and lead acceptability for your market, define media and water chemistry for long-term corrosion performance, and consider lead-free or dezincification-resistant brass alternatives where hygiene or potable-water requirements apply.

Brass CuZn40Pb2 (2.0402, HPb59-3) is widely used for CNC machined parts like fittings, valve components, threaded parts, bushings and precision connectors, particularly for repeatable CNC turned parts with good surface quality. Advantages include good corrosion resistance in many typical service environments, good dimensional stability and a strong balance of performance and cost for functional brass CNC machined parts. Disadvantages are limited strength versus steels, potential dezincification risk in certain water chemistries, and lead content that can be restricted for potable-water, medical or compliance-driven applications. When specifying CuZn40Pb2 CNC machined parts, verify legal and customer requirements regarding lead, define the operating media and water chemistry, and consider dezincification-resistant or lead-free brass grades when long-term water exposure or hygiene standards are critical.

Brass CuZn40 (2.0360, H59/H62) is commonly used for CNC machined parts such as decorative and functional fittings, covers, spacers, housings and general hardware where a good balance of strength, corrosion resistance and appearance is desired. Advantages include solid corrosion behavior in many indoor and water-related environments, good ductility and an attractive surface that suits visible CNC machined parts and assemblies. Disadvantages are lower strength than steels, potential dezincification in certain aggressive waters if the wrong variant is used, and typically less suitability for extreme wear or high contact stress without design measures. When specifying CuZn40 CNC machined parts, define the service environment and water chemistry, clarify whether a higher-strength brass or bronze is needed for load-bearing interfaces, and consider coating or alternative alloys if long-term aesthetics or corrosion stability are critical.

CuSn8 (2.1030, QSn8-0.3) is a tin bronze commonly used for CNC machined parts such as bushings, plain bearings, thrust washers, wear rings and sliding elements where reliable friction behavior and long service life are required. Advantages include very good wear resistance, good corrosion resistance and strong performance under mixed lubrication, making it a robust choice for load-bearing CNC machined parts in machinery. Disadvantages are higher material cost than standard brass, higher weight, and lower suitability for ultra-lightweight designs or cost-driven high-volume parts. When specifying CuSn8 CNC machined parts, define the load, speed and lubrication regime, check compatibility with the counterface material to avoid galling or excessive wear, and clarify whether tighter tribology requirements suggest alternative bronzes or self-lubricating bearing materials.

CuSn12 (2.1052, CuSn12-C) is a high-tin bronze used for heavy-duty CNC machined parts such as bearing bushes, thrust plates, wear rings, guide components and sliding elements that must handle high loads and harsh service conditions. Advantages include excellent wear resistance, strong seizure resistance and good corrosion behavior, making it a dependable option for long-life CNC machined parts in mechanical systems. Disadvantages are higher material cost and weight than brass, and the alloy is typically chosen for performance rather than minimal cost or minimal mass. When specifying CuSn12 CNC machined parts, define load and lubrication conditions, expected duty cycle and contamination, and consider whether alternative bronzes, self-lubricating materials or hardened steel pairings are better for extreme wear, start-stop motion or dry-running scenarios.

Blasting at InstaWerk uses abrasive media to create a uniform matte finish and to visually blend surfaces or prepare for subsequent finishing. Benefits include consistent appearance and improved adhesion for coatings, drawbacks include edge rounding and a roughness increase that may affect sealing or cleanliness. Define the desired matte level and whether any functional surfaces must remain unaffected.

Applicable materials:

• All aluminium alloys listed above
• All steels listed above
• All stainless steels listed above
• Titanium Grade 2 – 3.7035
• Titanium Grade 5 – 3.7165
• Copper Cu-ETP – 2.0065
• Brass CuZn39Pb3 – 2.0401
• Brass CuZn40Pb2 – 2.0402
• Brass CuZn40 – 2.0360
• Bronze CuSn8 – 2.1030
• Bronze CuSn12 – 2.1052
• Polymers listed above (geometry and surface requirement dependent)

Anodizing at InstaWerk is an electrochemical oxidation of aluminium that builds a protective oxide layer, optionally dyed for color. Pros are improved corrosion resistance, higher surface hardness, and premium aesthetics. Cons include thickness build-up that can affect fits and possible color variation between alloys. Define which surfaces are cosmetic vs functional and whether wear or UV exposure is relevant.

Applicable materials:

• AlMgSi0.5 – EN AW-6060 – 3.3206
• AlMg1SiCu – EN AW-6061 – 3.3211
• AlMg0,7Si – EN AW-6063 – 3.3206
• AlMgSi1 – EN AW-6082 – 3.2315
• AlZn5,5MgCu – EN AW-7075 – 3.4365
• AlMg3 – EN AW-5754 – 3.3535
• AlMg4,5Mn – EN AW-5083 – 3.3547
• AlMg2,5 – EN AW-5052 – 3.3523
• AlCuMgPb – EN AW-2007 – 3.1645 (often limited cosmetics)
• AlCuMg1 – EN AW-2017A – 3.1325 (often limited cosmetics)
• AlCu4Mg1 – EN AW-2024 – 3.1355 (often limited cosmetics)

Chromate conversion coating at InstaWerk creates a thin chemical conversion layer on aluminium that improves corrosion resistance and supports paint or adhesive bonding while maintaining electrical contact. Advantages are minimal dimensional impact and strong performance as a primer layer. Disadvantages are lower wear resistance than anodizing and chemistry-dependent regulatory considerations. Ideal when bonding, coating, or conductivity is required.

Applicable materials:

• All aluminium alloys listed above

Vibratory finishing at InstaWerk uses abrasive media in a vibrating process to smooth surfaces and soften edges for improved handling and visual consistency. Pros are safer edges and more uniform appearance, cons include loss of sharp edge definition and potential impact on small features. Specify acceptable edge radii and whether any edges must remain crisp for assembly or sealing.

Applicable materials:

• Aluminium alloys listed above
• Steels listed above
• Stainless steels listed above
• Titanium Grade 2 – 3.7035
• Titanium Grade 5 – 3.7165
• Copper Cu-ETP – 2.0065
• Brass CuZn39Pb3 – 2.0401
• Brass CuZn40Pb2 – 2.0402
• Brass CuZn40 – 2.0360
• Bronze CuSn8 – 2.1030
• Bronze CuSn12 – 2.1052
• Selected polymers listed above (geometry dependent)

Electropolishing at InstaWerk is an electrochemical smoothing process that removes a thin surface layer to reduce micro-roughness and improve cleanliness and corrosion behavior. Pros include improved cleanability, smoother surfaces, and a premium finish. Cons are added cost and less uniformity in deep recesses or complex internal geometries. Especially relevant for hygienic, medical, food, and chemical applications.

Applicable materials:

• X5CrNi18-10 – AISI 304 – 1.4301
• X2CrNiMo17-12-2 – AISI 316 – 1.4401
• X2CrNiMo17-12-2 – AISI 316L – 1.4404
• X6CrNiMoTi17-12-2 – AISI 316Ti – 1.4571
• X8CrNiS18-9 – AISI 303 – 1.4305 (application-dependent)
• Titanium Grade 2 – 3.7035 (application-dependent)
• Titanium Grade 5 – 3.7165 (application-dependent)

Phosphating at InstaWerk is a chemical conversion coating for steels that creates a phosphate layer to improve paint adhesion and oil retention. Advantages are good performance as a base layer for coatings and improved corrosion protection when used with oil or paint systems. Disadvantages are limited standalone corrosion resistance and an industrial look. Best when parts will be painted or need oil retention in service.

Applicable materials:

• S235JR – 1.0038
• S355J2+N – 1.0570
• C45 – 1.0503
• 42CrMo(S)4 – 1.7227
• 16MnCr5 – 1.7131
• 11SMn30 / 9SMn28 – 1.0715
• 9SMnPb36 – 1.0737
• 40CrMnNiMo8-6 – 1.2312

Oxidizing at InstaWerk refers to creating a controlled oxide layer for surface stabilization or a defined appearance, with the exact method depending on the base material. Pros can include a characteristic technical finish and improved surface stability, cons include limited wear protection and the need to validate corrosion behavior for the actual environment. Choose it for specific functional or aesthetic targets rather than as a universal corrosion solution.

Applicable materials:

• Copper Cu-ETP – 2.0065
• Brass CuZn39Pb3 – 2.0401
• Brass CuZn40Pb2 – 2.0402
• Brass CuZn40 – 2.0360
• Bronze CuSn8 – 2.1030
• Bronze CuSn12 – 2.1052
• Titanium Grade 2 – 3.7035 (spec-dependent)
• Titanium Grade 5 – 3.7165 (spec-dependent)

Hard chrome plating at InstaWerk is optimized for functional surfaces where wear resistance, low friction, and long service life are key. Advantages are excellent wear performance and durability, disadvantages are tolerance sensitivity and the need to evaluate corrosion protection as a system. Define target thickness, wear expectations, and whether fatigue or corrosion is critical in the application.

Applicable materials:

• 42CrMo(S)4 – 1.7227
• C45 – 1.0503
• 16MnCr5 – 1.7131
• 40CrMnNiMo8-6 – 1.2312
• S355J2+N – 1.0570 (application-dependent)

Zinc plating at InstaWerk adds a sacrificial zinc layer to protect steels against corrosion, often combined with passivation to increase durability. Pros are strong corrosion protection at a good cost level, cons include limited high-temperature suitability and potential hydrogen embrittlement risk for high-strength parts. Define the corrosion class (indoor vs outdoor vs salt exposure) and any appearance requirements (clear, yellow, black passivation).

Applicable materials:

• S235JR – 1.0038
• S355J2+N – 1.0570
• C45 – 1.0503
• 42CrMo(S)4 – 1.7227
• 16MnCr5 – 1.7131
• 40CrMnNiMo8-6 – 1.2312
• 11SMn30 / 9SMn28 – 1.0715
• 9SMnPb36 – 1.0737

Nickel plating at InstaWerk deposits a nickel layer to improve corrosion resistance, wear behavior, and to create a stable technical surface, often used for functional assemblies. Advantages include good corrosion performance and, depending on system choice, very uniform coverage. Disadvantages are added cost and tolerance impact due to coating thickness. Specify whether the priority is corrosion, hardness, appearance, or electrical contact behavior.

Applicable materials:

• Aluminium alloys listed above (with suitable pretreatment)
• Steels listed above
• Stainless steels listed above (application-dependent)
• Copper Cu-ETP – 2.0065
• Brass CuZn39Pb3 – 2.0401
• Brass CuZn40Pb2 – 2.0402
• Brass CuZn40 – 2.0360
• Bronze CuSn8 – 2.1030
• Bronze CuSn12 – 2.1052

Ultrasonic cleaning at InstaWerk uses high-frequency sound waves in a cleaning bath to remove fine particles, oils, and residues, including from complex geometries. Advantages are high cleanliness and good reach into small features, disadvantages are that it is a cleanliness step rather than a protective finish and the cleaning chemistry must match the material. Particularly relevant for sealing faces, fluid-handling parts, and hygiene-critical applications.

Applicable materials:

• All materials listed above