Common Materials Used in Die Casting

Introduction

Die casting is a manufacturing process used to produce metal parts in large quantities. It involves the use of molten metal that is injected into a mold cavity under high pressure. The molten metal solidifies and takes the shape of the mold cavity. Die casting is widely used in the automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, and electronic industries. In this article, we will discuss the common materials used in die casting.

1. Aluminum

Aluminum is one of the most commonly used materials in die casting. It is a lightweight and durable material that has good corrosion resistance. Aluminum alloys have high thermal conductivity, which makes them suitable for applications that require heat dissipation. Some of the commonly used aluminum alloys in die casting are A380, A383, and A360.

2. Zinc

Zinc is another popular material used in die casting. It is a versatile material that has good mechanical properties, such as high strength and excellent corrosion resistance. Zinc alloys have low melting points, which means they can be easily molded and require less energy to produce. Some of the commonly used zinc alloys in die casting are ZA-8, ZA-12, and ZA-27.

3. Magnesium

Magnesium is a lightweight metal that has excellent strength-to-weight ratio. It is commonly used in die casting because it has good mechanical properties, such as high strength and excellent stiffness. Magnesium alloys are also highly resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for outdoor applications. Some of the commonly used magnesium alloys in die casting are AZ91D and AM60B.

4. Copper

Copper is a good conductor of electricity and heat, making it suitable for electrical and electronic applications. It is also a durable material that has good corrosion resistance. Copper alloys are commonly used in die casting because they have good mechanical properties, such as high strength and excellent wear resistance. Some of the commonly used copper alloys in die casting are C36000 and C17200.

5. Steel

Steel is a strong and durable material that is commonly used in die casting for its high tensile strength and excellent wear resistance. Steel alloys are also highly resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for outdoor applications. Some of the commonly used steel alloys in die casting are H13, P20, and D2.

Conclusion

Die casting is a popular manufacturing process that is used to produce metal parts in large quantities. The choice of material depends on the application and the properties required by the part. Aluminum, zinc, magnesium, copper, and steel are some of the commonly used materials in die casting. Each material has its unique properties, and the selection of the material depends on the specific requirements of the application.