Zinc Alloy
Die-cast metal for complex small components and decorative parts
Overview
Zinc die-casting alloys offer excellent fluidity, allowing complex shapes with thin walls and fine details impossible with other casting processes. Combined with low melting temperatures and good mechanical properties, zinc alloys have become essential for automotive components requiring intricate geometries at reasonable cost. The primary zinc die-casting alloy (ZAMAK or Mazak) contains aluminum, magnesium, and copper in addition to zinc, providing good strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance. The low melting point enables economical high-pressure die-casting with long tool life. Zinc castings typically require no machining beyond basic finishing, reducing production costs. In automotive applications, zinc alloys appear in door handles, lock components, decorative trim, badges, and various small mechanical parts. The material accepts various finishes including chrome plating, painting, and powder coating exceptionally well, making it popular for visible components. Zinc's natural corrosion resistance, enhanced by surface treatments, ensures durability in automotive environments. The material's dimensional accuracy and repeatability in casting make it ideal for high-volume production of precision components.
Automotive Applications
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Properties
Category
Type
Zinc-Aluminum Alloy (ZAMAK)
Available Colors
Available Forms
Key Properties
- Excellent castability
- Fine detail capability
- Good corrosion resistance
- Accepts finishes well
- Cost-effective
Technical Specifications
Density
6.7 g/cm³
Tensile Strength
280 MPa
Temperature Resistance
-50°C to 120°C
Sustainability
Sustainability Rating
Zinc is fully recyclable with no loss of properties. Recycling requires significantly less energy than primary production.