Aluminum cuts fast, so the best machine for it is one that can turn high spindle speed into finished parts: a machining center with a fast, well-balanced spindle (12,000 RPM and up), high rapids and good chip control. High-speed machining and aluminum go hand in hand.
For flat and prismatic aluminum parts a fast VMC or tapping center is ideal; for round parts, a turning center. Prioritize spindle speed, rapids and coolant/chip handling over raw torque. Value any candidate machine free at The Machine Blue Book before you buy.
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