Engineering Resources for CNC Manufacturing
Practical guides written by manufacturing engineers — material data, tolerance standards, surface finishing options, design-for-manufacturability tips, and shipping logistics. Everything you need to take a CAD file from concept to a finished part.
Browse by topic
Pick a topic to read in detail. Every guide is written by Alloyer's engineering team and reviewed regularly to keep specifications and policies current.
Design Guides
DFM rules that reduce cost and improve manufacturability before you send a CNC file.
Read more → ProcessProduction Process
How a CAD file becomes a finished part — from quote review to quality inspection to shipping.
Read more → MaterialsMaterials Overview
Eight in-stock metals and composites with mechanical data, machinability ratings, and typical applications.
Read more → FinishingSurface Finishes
Anodizing, sandblasting, bead blasting, polishing — visual examples with engineering trade-offs.
Read more ��� StandardsTolerance Standards
ISO 2768 fine / medium / coarse / very-coarse — what each class means and which to specify.
Read more → StandardsThread Sizes Chart
UNC, UNF, and metric tap-drill diameters per ASME B1.1 and ISO 965. Print-ready reference.
Read more → LogisticsShipping & US Tariffs
2025–2026 update: de minimis removed, Section 301 surcharges, IEEPA duties, and landed cost planning.
Read more → HelpFAQs
Lead times, MOQs, file formats, NDA handling, IP protection, and the quoting workflow — answered.
Read more →Material profiles
Eight in-stock alloys with full mechanical data, machinability ratings, and recommended applications. Click any card for the full property sheet.
6061 Aluminum
General-purpose, weldable, anodizable. Best value for structural and enclosure parts.
View profile →7075 Aluminum
Aerospace-grade strength-to-weight ratio. Not weldable; anodize only.
View profile →304 Stainless
Excellent corrosion resistance, non-magnetic, food-safe. Widely used across industries.
View profile →316 Stainless
Marine-grade, superior resistance to chlorides and pitting compared to 304.
View profile →1018 Steel
Low-carbon, highly machinable and weldable. Good for structural and shaft parts.
View profile →4140 Steel
High-strength, heat-treatable chromoly alloy. Excellent fatigue and torsional resistance.
View profile →Brass C360
Free-machining, electrically conductive, corrosion-resistant. Ideal for fittings and contacts.
View profile →Titanium Ti-6Al-4V
Best strength-to-weight of any structural metal. Biocompatible for medical and aerospace.
View profile →How to use these resources
- Designing a new part? Start with the Design Guides to avoid the most common cost-driving mistakes before uploading.
- Choosing a material? Read the Materials Overview, then click through to the specific alloy profile for full mechanical data.
- Specifying tolerances? Use ISO 2768-m (medium) as the default; only tighten to fine where the function actually demands it.
- Shipping to the US? Read the Shipping & Tariff Guide — the US de minimis exemption for China-origin goods was removed in 2025 and every shipment is now subject to full duties.
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