The most widely used aluminum, 6061 is fabricated into everything from pipe fittings and containers to automotive and aerospace parts. It is strong and corrosion resistant, plus it's easy to machine and weld.

Originally developed for aircraft frames, uses for 7075 aluminum now include shafts, gears, and other high-stress parts. It is often used as a replacement for 2024 aluminum because it’s stronger and provides similar performance in all other aspects.

Also known as mild steel, low-carbon steel is easy to machine, form, and weld. It's often fabricated into low-strength fasteners and fixture clamps.

With more carbon and manganese than other easy-to-machine carbon steel, 1144 carbon steel has higher yield strength and hardness. Also known as Stressproof, these hex bars are stress-relieved to minimize warping during machining.

A hardened surface makes these hex bars more impact and abrasion resistant than untreated bars. They’re also stress relieved to reduce the chance of warping during machining.

From cookware to chemical-processing equipment, 304 stainless steel is a good all-around choice for a wide range of applications.

The addition of molybdenum gives 316 stainless steel excellent corrosion resistance. Use it in a variety of marine and chemical-processing applications.