Zinc materials are well suited for the die casting process, offering unique advantages for manufacturing complex metal components. In this article, we explore the characteristics of zinc alloys, making them an excellent choice for many applications.
The Fluidity of Zinc
When melted, zinc alloys flow smoothly compared to other metals. This high fluidity makes it an excellent choice for die casting, allowing for intricate designs without the need for additional machining, thereby resulting in a cost-effective and functional “net cast” part right from the mold.
At Deco Products, we employ certified high-quality zinc alloys with consistent chemistry, high strength, and exceptional fluidity, which is important for the high performance and ongoing quality of part production.
Enhancing Aesthetics with Plating and Powder Coating
Zinc’s versatility extends to aesthetics. At Deco Products, we offer various plating and powder coating options for zinc parts. When you explore our gallery, you can see the transformative power of zinc die casting.
See the links below for more information.
Zinc Powder Coating
Plating Zinc Die Cast
At Deco Products, we employ certified high-quality zinc alloys with consistent chemistry, high strength, and exceptional fluidity, which is important for the high performance and ongoing quality of part production.
The Strength and Durability of Zinc Alloys
Zinc alloys are known for their strength, rigidity, and durability, which makes them ideal for some structural parts that have complex shapes while requiring greater strength than plastics or other nonferrous metals.
Thermal and Electrical Conductivity
High thermal and electrical conductivity make zinc alloys perfect for electronic devices and heat dissipation. Consequently, connectors, switches, sensors, and heat sinks often use zinc alloys for their superior performance.
Dimensional Accuracy and Surface Quality
Zinc alloys offer outstanding dimensional accuracy and stability. Their low melting points and fluidity allow for intricate shapes with minimal defects. Additionally, zinc diecasting molds have long life and can often continue to make consistent parts even after 1,000,000 or more shots.
Environmental Sustainability
Zinc alloys are recyclable and, due to their lower melting temperatures, are processed more efficiently than other metals. Consequently, the zinc die casting process reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. For more information about zinc’s role in sustainable manufacturing, click here.
Types of Zinc Alloys for Die Casting
Common zinc alloys include:
- Zamak 2 (Zinc Alloy 2): Offers the highest tensile strength and hardness of the Zamak alloys.
- Zamak 3 (Zinc Alloy 3): Because of its excellent cast-ability and long-term dimensional stability it is the most widely used zinc alloy.
- Zamak 5 (Zinc Alloy 5): Offers more impact strength and hardness than Zamak 3 because of the addition of about 1% copper.
- Zamak 7 (Zinc Alloy 7): Features improved casting fluidity.
ZA 8 (Zinc Aluminum Alloy 8): Provides good creep resistance and higher tensile strength, but lower impact strength. - EZAC (Zinc Aluminum Copper Alloy): Is the most recently developed alloy and is known for superior creep resistance and high tensile strength.
Decades of Expertise at Your Service
With decades of engineering training and experience, Deco Products is your trusted partner for part design, tool fabrication, and tooling transfer and ongoing value in the parts life cycle. We understand zinc die casting intricacies and are committed to excellence.
Conclusion
Zinc alloys are versatile and cost-effective die casting materials, offering advantages across various applications. Their exceptional properties, including fluidity, strength, thermal conductivity, and dimensional accuracy, make them ideal for intricate and durable metal components. If you require a reliable zinc die casting manufacturer, contact Deco Products today for a quote. Benefit from our expertise in delivering high-quality, tailored zinc die castings to meet your exact needs.
Dave Magner
Dave Magner is the Director of Sales and Marketing and has been with Deco Products since 2015. He has a +20 years of engineering experience in mechanical and electrical testing and design and zinc die casting, plastic injection molding, stamping, assembly, and automation processes.
