A383 (ADC12)
Material Introduction
A383, also known as ADC12, is one of the most widely used aluminum alloys for high-pressure aluminum die casting. Engineered for excellent castability, high fluidity, and strong resistance to hot cracking, A383/ADC12 supports thin-wall geometries, intricate housing structures, and components requiring tight dimensional control. This alloy provides a reliable balance of strength, thermal conductivity, and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for large-scale production in the automotive, electronics, and consumer hardware industries. When combined with Neway’s advanced tool and die making capability and precision CNC machining, A383 castings can achieve remarkable accuracy and stability across complex shapes. Its mechanical performance becomes even more consistent when paired with suitable finishing processes such as powder coating or painting, ensuring long-lasting durability in demanding environments.
International Names or Representative Grades
Region | Common Name | Representative Grades |
|---|---|---|
USA | Aluminum Die Casting Alloy | A383, A380 |
Japan | JIS Aluminum Casting Alloy | ADC12, ADC10 |
Europe | EN AC Series | EN AC-46000, EN AC-44300 |
China | GB Aluminum Alloy | YL113, YL112 |
Automotive Sector | High-Fluidity Die Cast Alloy | A383/ADC12, A413 |
Alternative Material Options
Depending on required strength, thermal performance, corrosion behavior, and cost constraints, several alternatives can serve as substitutes for A383. For improved mechanical properties or heat resistance, alloys such as A380 and EN AC-43500 provide higher structural integrity for demanding automotive housings. For enhanced ductility or improved anodizing response, AlSi12 and AlSi7Mg are suitable alternatives. If extreme corrosion resistance or superior pressure tightness is required, Zamak 3 or ZA-8 may offer better sealing performance. For premium structural components, AC4C or A356 provides superior mechanical strength and heat-treating capability, supporting more demanding engineering applications.
Design Purpose
A383/ADC12 was developed to excel in high-pressure die casting environments requiring superior fluidity and minimal casting defects. Its composition supports intricate mold filling, reduced porosity, and strong resistance to hot cracking, making it ideal for thin-wall components, electronic housings, and precision brackets. The alloy’s design intent prioritizes repeatability, dimensional stability, high productivity, and compatibility with automated mass production. Its metallurgical structure ensures good strength and toughness without requiring complex heat treatment, enabling manufacturers to achieve consistent performance across large batches. A383 remains one of the most cost-effective and reliable materials in the die-casting industry due to its balance of castability, mechanical capability, and versatility.
Chemical Composition
Element | Composition (%) |
|---|---|
Silicon (Si) | 9.5–12.0 |
Copper (Cu) | 1.5–3.5 |
Magnesium (Mg) | ≤0.3 |
Zinc (Zn) | ≤1.0 |
Iron (Fe) | ≤1.3 |
Manganese (Mn) | ≤0.5 |
Tin (Sn) | ≤0.2 |
Others | ≤0.5 |
Aluminum (Al) | Balance |
Physical Properties
Property | Value |
|---|---|
Density | ~2.74 g/cm³ |
Thermal Conductivity | ~96–110 W/m·K |
Electrical Conductivity | ~23% IACS |
Melting Range | ~560–610°C |
Thermal Expansion | 21–23 µm/m·°C |
Mechanical Properties
Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
Tensile Strength | ~310 MPa |
Yield Strength | ~160 MPa |
Elongation | 1–3% |
Hardness | ~85 HB |
Impact Resistance | Moderate |
Key Material Characteristics
High fluidity allows precise filling of molds with thin walls and deep cavities.
Excellent die-casting performance with low shrinkage and reduced risk of porosity-related defects.
Good thermal conductivity ensures stable heat dissipation for electronic housings.
Strong dimensional stability for complex enclosures and bracket structures.
Corrosion resistance suitable for outdoor consumer and automotive components.
Consistent performance in high-volume metal casting operations.
Cost-effective alloy choice for mid-strength structural applications.
Compatible with multiple finishing treatments, such as anodizing and painting.
Good weldability for repair or secondary joining processes.
Reliable mechanical strength without the need for post-casting heat treatment.
Manufacturability in Different Processes
High-pressure die casting: Excellent flow characteristics are ideal for complex housings using aluminum die casting.
Low-volume prototyping: Supports fast turnaround through rapid prototyping before mass production.
CNC machining: Works well with CNC machining for precision holes, threads, and mating surfaces.
Surface finishing: Compatible with sandblasting and tumbling to enhance texture and remove burrs.
Painting and coating: Accepts powder coating or painting for enhanced protection.
Anodizing: Utilizes arc anodizing for enhanced surface hardness and corrosion resistance.
Mold design support: Performs optimally when paired with professional die-casting design services to minimize defects.
Assembly processes: Suitable for integrated production lines using assembly services for multi-component products.
Suitable Post-Processing Methods
Powder coating for enhanced corrosion protection and uniform surface appearance.
Painting for decorative finishes or color-coding requirements.
Anodizing and arc anodizing for increased surface hardness and durability.
Tumbling or vibratory finishing to improve smoothness and remove sharp edges.
Sand blasting to refine surfaces before coating or assembly.
CNC post-machining for precise tolerances and tight-fit assembly points.
Surface sealing treatments to improve porosity resistance for fluid-handling components.
Common Industries and Applications
Automotive housings, brackets, transmission components, and lightweight structural parts.
Consumer electronics shells, heat-dissipating enclosures, and connector housings.
Telecommunication equipment, signal amplifier casings, and protective frames.
Power-tool bodies, internal frames, and precision die-cast accessories.
Home-appliance components requiring strong dimensional stability and corrosion resistance.
Industrial machinery housings and cost-efficient cast components.
When to Choose This Material
When excellent mold filling and thin-wall precision are required.
When high-volume production demands consistent mechanical performance.
When corrosion resistance and moderate structural strength are sufficient.
When cost-effectiveness is a priority for consumer or automotive components.
When compatible finishing options such as painting or powder coating are required.
When complex shapes must be cast reliably with minimal defects.
When thermal management benefits from the alloy’s good conductivity.
When a rapid transition from prototype to low-volume manufacturing or mass production is needed.
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