What raw material price swings are hitting CNC shops right now?

Steel and aluminum prices fluctuate wildly with global supply chains. Hot-rolled plate jumped 20% last quarter due to mill maintenance and energy costs, while aluminum extrusion steadied after China output ramped up. Tool steel for fixtures stays high-tungsten carbide inserts rose 15% on raw powder shortages. Copper alloys for bushings or electrodes climbed too, tied to EV battery demand. Shops hedge by buying in bulk during dips or switching to composites where possible. For machines like the TMC-800L, lightweight designs mean less cast iron in the base, so iron ore swings affect pricing less directly. Still, spindle motors and linear guides use copper windings and rare earths, so expect incremental cost bumps passed on. Smart buyers lock in quotes early for big installations.