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ISO N

What is the ISO N material group?

The ISO N material group includes non-ferrous metals that are widely used due to their light weight, corrosion resistance, and good machinability. This group primarily consists of aluminum and its alloys, but also includes other light metals such as magnesium, copper, and titanium. Aluminum’s special properties, such as low density and good resistance to oxidation, make it an excellent material for many industries.

Why are N-materials important?

The use of ISO N materials, especially aluminum, has increased significantly in many industries due to their light weight and excellent corrosion resistance. Aluminum is a silvery, lightweight metal that makes up about 8% of the Earth's crust by mass. To achieve the required strength and other properties in industrial applications, aluminum and its alloys are widely used in fields such as transportation, aerospace, and electronics. Aluminum is often alloyed with copper, magnesium, or silicon to improve performance for specific uses.

Distinctive features of the N-material group

Aluminum and its alloys are well-known for their high corrosion resistance, excellent formability, and low weight. Alloying aluminum increases its versatility:

Pure aluminum

  • Soft, easy to form, and offers good corrosion resistance.

Aluminum Alloys:

  • Copper Alloys (AlCu): Offer high strength and are commonly used in the aerospace industry.
  • Magnesium Alloys (AlMg): Improve formability and corrosion resistance, often used in the marine industry.
  • Silicon Alloys (AlSi): Provide good wear resistance and are common in the automotive industry.

Examples of the most common material grades in the ISO N material group

Aluminum 6061:

  • Properties: Good combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and machinability.
  • Applications: Structural parts, aircraft components, marine vessels, vehicles.

Aluminum 6082:

  • Properties: Good strength, corrosion resistance, and weldability. Moderate machinability.
  • Applications: Frames, components, and mold making.

Aluminum 7075:

  • Properties: Very high strength, though slightly lower corrosion resistance.
  • Applications: Aerospace industry, sports products, high-strength components.

Aluminum alloys in the ISO N material group are particularly desirable in the transportation, aerospace, and electronics industries due to their emphasis on weight reduction and cost-effectiveness.

Machinability and Weldability of the ISO N Material Group

  • Machinability: Aluminum and its alloys are generally known to be easy to machine, though quality varies with the alloy composition. For example, Al6061 is very easy to machine, while Al7075 requires closer attention to tool wear and process control. Aluminum 6082 offers reasonable machinability, but its strength and usability make it a popular choice for structural and critical components.
  • Weldability: Pure aluminum and most of its alloys are highly weldable. Aluminum 6082, in particular, boasts excellent weldability, which makes it a popular option for structural applications demanding both durability and strength.

Tips for machining ISO N materials

  • Ductility and adhesiveness: The ductility and tendency of these materials to adhere to cutting tool materials is a main concern (leading to built-up edge and chipping).
  • Suitable depths of cut and feeds: Use larger depths of cut and higher feed rates to optimize machining efficiency and tool life.
  • High cutting speed: You can achieve high cutting speeds with aluminum to help prevent built-up edge formation.
  • Use of suitable carbide grades and geometries: Use sharp and highly effective cutting tools to achieve the best surface quality and reduce tool wear.
  • Emulsion cooling: It’s recommended to use emulsion cooling to ensure adequate cooling and lubrication, improving tool life and part quality.

Machinability of Aluminum and Other N-Materials

  • Long-chip material: Aluminum produces long chips, which generally makes chip control quite straightforward. However, high silicon (Si) content can make the material very abrasive.
  • Silicon content: When aluminum’s Si content is below 7–8%, fine-grained, uncoated carbides are suitable cutting tool grades. For higher Si contents, PCD-tipped (Polycrystalline Diamond) tools are recommended as they resist abrasive wear well.
    Most common workpieces

Non-ferrous metals in the ISO N group are widely used in the following applications:

  • Engine blocks: Often made from aluminum due to its light weight and good thermal conductivity.
  • Cylinder heads: Aluminum’s thermal conductivity and formability make it an ideal material.
  • Transmission cases and other housings: Help lighten the overall structure and reduce fuel consumption.
  • Aircraft frame structures: Take advantage of aluminum’s low weight and corrosion resistance.

Summary

The ISO N material group includes non-ferrous metals, especially aluminum and its alloys, that are vital across various industries for their light weight, excellent machinability, and high corrosion resistance. The extensive industrial use of aluminum, particularly in the transportation, aerospace, and electronics industries, highlights its importance in modern manufacturing. Machinists and machine shops should understand these materials’ unique properties and process control requirements to optimize machining and ensure high-quality results. Thanks to these qualities, ISO N materials are an ideal choice for a wide range of applications where weight, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness are key factors.