Materials we work with
Steels, stainless steels and aluminum, and what each is good for.
We work with the metals most custom parts and assemblies are made from. Not sure which one your part needs? Tell us how it will be used, what it must survive and what it must meet, and our design and engineering team will recommend one.
Stainless steel
| Grade | Good for | Finishes |
|---|---|---|
| 304 | General-purpose corrosion resistance: covers, guards, enclosures, frames. Our conveyor corner cover is 304. | Brushed, bead blasted, passivated |
| 316 | Food, pharmaceutical, water and marine use, where chlorides or cleaning chemicals attack 304. Our food transfer bins, inlet tubing, test equipment and water main collars are 316. | Passivated, polished for food contact |
Carbon steel
| Material | Good for | Finishes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild steel sheet, hot or cold rolled | Frames, brackets, bases and enclosures where cost matters most | Powder coating, painting, plating |
| Structural steel, CSA G40.21 44W and ASTM A36 | Plate, angle, channel and tube for welded frames and skids | Powder coating, painting |
| Galvanized steel | Outdoor parts that need corrosion protection without a coating step | As supplied |
Aluminum
| Alloy | Good for | Finishes |
|---|---|---|
| 5052-H32 | Formed sheet parts: it bends well and resists corrosion | Anodizing, powder coating |
| 6061-T6 | Machined parts and welded frames; the general-purpose alloy | Anodizing, powder coating |
| 7075-T6 | Machined parts that need high strength for their weight. Our long-range scope rail is 7075-T6 with Type III hard anodizing. | Type II and Type III anodizing |
Other materials
We also 3D print prototypes to check fit and form before a part is machined. Other metals, such as brass, copper, titanium and tool steels, are available on request; ask us.
Material certificates
Need mill test reports or material traceability for your parts? Put it on your quote request and we will supply them with the order. Mill certificates are available for every stainless steel and structural steel order.
See also the sheet metal gauge chart, Anodizing & Plating and Coating & Marking.
Have a part in mind?
Send us your drawings, models or a sketch. We will come back with a plan and a quote. Or call 519-218-9525.
Send us your drawing