Matching an Aluminum alloy to ZAMAC 5 properties
Matching an Aluminum alloy to ZAMAC 5 properties
(OP)
Hi!
I'm working on a design of an aluminum component that will allow me to phase out my current ZAMAC 5 product.
I'd like to switch to Aluminum for several reasons, including the weight of the finished item, as well as the ability to anodize. However, I can not jeopardize the physical properties of my product by reducing hardness, shear strength, etc., and would like the finished product to have (almost) the same properties as its ZAMAC 5 predecessor.
The components will be die cast.
Any help in identifying the correct alloy to use is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Josh
I'm working on a design of an aluminum component that will allow me to phase out my current ZAMAC 5 product.
I'd like to switch to Aluminum for several reasons, including the weight of the finished item, as well as the ability to anodize. However, I can not jeopardize the physical properties of my product by reducing hardness, shear strength, etc., and would like the finished product to have (almost) the same properties as its ZAMAC 5 predecessor.
The components will be die cast.
Any help in identifying the correct alloy to use is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Josh





RE: Matching an Aluminum alloy to ZAMAC 5 properties
RE: Matching an Aluminum alloy to ZAMAC 5 properties
I have already received confirmation from my factory that they are able to cast the parts in aluminum, but they were unsure of what alloy to use for the initial tests.
I will have them begin with A380.0F for testing, and we'll go from there.
Thanks again!
Josh
RE: Matching an Aluminum alloy to ZAMAC 5 properties
Keep in mind that anodizing performance of high pressure die cast alloys in general is not good. The high Si alloys 380/383/390 have poor appearance, while the Mg-alloyed grade 518.0 has the ability to produce anodized parts with excellent cosmetic/aesthetic appeal. 518.0 is similar to 380 in terms of strength, better for elongation. The problem is that it is significantly more difficult to cast into thin sections/intricate shapes without cracking or forming other types of defects. Make sure you are working with the anodizer together with the casting company to optimize the final product performance.
RE: Matching an Aluminum alloy to ZAMAC 5 properties
We are making parts with very intricate shapes and thin sections (<1mm) for the consumer goods / general merchandise industry. Therefore, I do not believe that 518.0 will be suitable (solely based on the previous reply).
If I use A380, can I barrel plate the parts as I currently do with ZAMAK?
What is meant by "poor appearance" of high Si alloys?
Josh
RE: Matching an Aluminum alloy to ZAMAC 5 properties
RE: Matching an Aluminum alloy to ZAMAC 5 properties
RE: Matching an Aluminum alloy to ZAMAC 5 properties
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