For tight tolerances and complex shapes, many industries benefit from die cast metal components. High-speed production with dimensional stability makes it well-suited for manufacturing durable, high-strength metal parts. While the die casting manufacturing process is known for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, it can be hard to determine which metal material will be best for your die casting requirements.
Die Cast Metal Materials
While various metal alloys can be used for die casting, commonly used metal alloys include aluminum, magnesium, and zinc. Brass and copper can be used for die cast components, however, they are primarily used for low volume, custom production runs.
While each metal has its advantages, steel is often compared with aluminum due to both metals having the strength and corrosion resistance for metal part production. Head to head, steel cast parts will be stronger than aluminum cast parts. There are aluminum alloys that are stronger than steel, but steel is better suited for load-bearing applications.
Aluminum Die Casting
As one of the most versatile metal materials, aluminum is commonly used in die cast manufacturing. Aluminum die casting is favored for its lightweight, corrosion-resistance properties along with its ability to maintain dimensional accuracy for high volume production runs.
- Die cast aluminum components have the strength-to-weight ratios and hardness that make them ideal for applications that need to withstand harsh environmental operating temperatures
- Aluminum is less expensive than magnesium and offers more hardness than magnesium
- For high-temperature applications, aluminum die cast parts offer better strength than magnesium or zinc
Magnesium Die Casting
Another high-strength, lightweight metal material, magnesium is commonly used as a substitute for aluminum cast components due to its mechanical structure and unique alloy properties.
- Magnesium has high-tensile strength and extremely lightweight
- It is the lightest alloy for casting when compared to aluminum or zinc
- It is softer, with less stability than aluminum
- Often considered a specialty alloy
- Lighter than steel with comparable strength
Zinc Die Casting
Zinc is a long-lasting metal material for die casting projects. Its lower melting temperature makes it cost-efficient for large production runs.
- Zinc can withstand more impact than aluminum and magnesium
- It is ideal for complex castings with intricate detailing
- Zinc is best for die cast parts that require high yield strength, even more so than magnesium
Die Cast Metal Components for a Variety of Industries
Die casting provides high-quality metal parts and components for a wide range of industries.
Aluminum Die Cast Parts
- Vehicle and RV components
- Aerospace and aircraft components
- Electronic components
Magnesium Die Cast Parts
- Electrical housings
- Medical equipment
- Lab equipment
- Connectors
Zinc Die Cast Parts
- Automotive components
- Medical equipment and tools
Which Die Cast Metal is Best for You?
The best metal for your die casting project will depend on your project requirements, including production volume, budget, and complexity of your components. Get the high-quality metal die cast parts you need from a trusted manufacturer. Contact Compass & Anvil and let us connect you with the best die cast partner for your project.