3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing Metals
Aluminum and stainless for printer frames, fixtures & build plates. Aluminum for frames and fixtures, stainless steel for heat-resistant build components.
Recommended Alloys
Aluminum for printer frames and enclosures, stainless steel for build plates and hot-end components.
6061-T6 Aluminum
Fixtures, jigs & enclosures
6061 is the go-to for 3D printer frames, build platforms, and fixture plates. Excellent machinability for CNC finishing after additive manufacturing. Holds tight tolerances and machines cleanly for jigs, mounting brackets, and tooling plates.
5052-H32 Aluminum
Welded enclosures & panels
5052 is ideal for welded printer enclosures, heated chamber walls, and structural panels. Superior weldability compared to 6061 — use it anywhere you need a fully welded, airtight enclosure for temperature-controlled printing environments.
304 Stainless Steel
Build plates & heat-resistant components
304 stainless is used for heated build plates, extruder mounts, and any component near the hot end. Heat resistant to 1500°F with excellent corrosion resistance. The standard choice for parts that see sustained high temperatures.
New to metal 3D printing?
Start with 6061-T6for frames and fixture plates — it machines cleanly and holds tight tolerances. Use 5052 for welded enclosures and 304 stainless for anything near the hot end.
Browse 6061 AluminumNeed aluminum or stainless for your printer build?
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