What is Aluminum Die Casting?
Aluminum die casting is a highly efficient manufacturing process for creating near-net-shaped parts with complex geometries. The process uses molten metal – in this case, aluminum alloy – injected under extreme pressure into a custom steel die positioned within an automated machine.
Benefits of Aluminum Die Casting
Compared to other manufacturing processes, aluminum die casting is efficient, cost-effective, and capable of producing high volumes of parts with consistent quality. Aluminum’s advantages and characteristics include the following:
- Lightweight: Aluminum is an ideal material for products where less weight is desirable.
- Strong and Durable: Although lightweight, aluminum is also strong and durable. Aluminum castings can withstand heavy use and harsh environments without degrading or breaking down.
- High-Quality Surface Finish: Aluminum die casting can produce parts with a high-quality surface finish, making them ideal for applications where appearance is important.
- Cost-Effective: Aluminum die casting is a cost-effective manufacturing process, as it can produce high-quality parts within seconds.
- Environmentally friendly: Aluminum die castings are 100% recyclable. The raw material is made from recycled aluminum, and all excess material and scrap is recycled in-house.
Aluminum Die Casting Applications
Aluminum die casting is a highly versatile solution for applications across numerous industries. For example, it is used in the automotive industry to make powertrain components, electronic housings, and decorative and structural parts, which help drive enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. Other industries that benefit from and utilize aluminum die castings include medical equipment, consumer recreational products, industrial applications, alternative energy solutions, electronic housings, and agricultural/construction/mining components.
A380 is the Workhorse Alloy for Aluminum Die Casting.
A380 is the preferred aluminum alloy for die casting due to its exceptional mechanical properties and castability combination. This alloy can be used to create intricate and complex shapes that can be easily replicated at high volumes, and A380’s impressive strength and durability make it well-suited for applications where structural integrity is crucial. For more information on A380’s physical and mechanical properties, download the NADCA datasheet HERE.
CWM’s Capabilities
With eleven aluminum casting machines, with 300 to 1,000 tons of locking force, CWM can produce aluminum parts in sizes from 0.75′ x 0.75″ to 20″ x 20″.
CWM also provides Engineering Design Services and a full complement of one-stop-shop, value-added processing, including deburring, machining, coating, painting, plating, and assembly.
Request a quote or contact Chicago White Metal today for more information!
