Die casting, a popular metal casting process, allows you to cast parts in plastic, resin, metal, or other materials. Once done, you’ll appreciate the developed finishing options and the better strength of parts produced with die casting. Aluminum and Zinc are the most used metals for die casting.
Aluminum is ideal for intricate and thin-walled die casting solutions. At the same time, Zinc alloys are also known for die casting and deliver excellent features. To pick the ideal die-casting material among aluminum and zinc alloys, go through the Zinc Die Casting Vs. Aluminum Die Casting is based on benefits, uses, cost, and more.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ZINC DIE CASTING AND ALUMINUM DIE CASTING?
ALUMINUM
Aluminum is a popular choice among the most used metals in die casting. It can be quickly found in various items that we use regularly. The reason could be its features like robustness, strength ratio, affordability, etc. Mainly, aluminum doesn’t get used in its purest form as it may shrink or crack. Hence, it is generally mixed with additional materials like magnesium, copper, and silicon. Aluminum die cast parts can also be cast with complex geometries while maintaining strength.
ZINC ALLOYS
Zinc is an excellent material for tiny, more intricate shapes, as no other alloy can be cast with similar thin walls and tight tolerances. It’s exceptional potency is ideal for pressed, machined, stamped, and fabricated components. Its features like superior thermal and electrical conductivity allow quick finishing at less tooling or secondary operations. In addition, it can be cast at perfect temperatures, offering substantial energy savings.
ALUMINUM VS. ZINC DIE CASTING – BENEFITS & USES
FOR ALUMINUM DIE CASTING
Aluminum die casting is lightweight and confers high dimensional stability that performs at its best, even for complex geometries like thin walls. Moreover, some of its excellent properties make it a unique die-casting alloy. To name a few, strong resistance to corrosion, high thermal & electrical conductivity, and so on.
Applications-
- Lawnmower housings
- Communications equipment
- Hand and power tools
- Electronics
- Gear cases
FOR ZINC DIE CASTING
Zinc is mainly used for its high flexibility and ability to be quickly finished or plated. It holds a lower melting point than aluminum, hence, assisting in nurturing longer die life. For this reason, working with zinc allows consumers to save more money and time. Zinc alloys not only produce automobile parts but are also used in industrial spaces and buildings.
Applications:
- Interior aesthetic parts
- Power steering systems
- Electronic devices
- Engine and other “under-the-hood” components
- Fuel systems
- Brake parts and systems
- Complex net-shaped housings
- Air-conditioning components and systems
- Complex net-shaped housings
PRICING FOR DIE CASTING MATERIALS
Aluminum is commonly available and comes in various alloy formulas to match your objectives at the most affordable cost. Whereas, zinc costs more than aluminum in the die casting industry.