A360

A360 is a corrosion-resistant die casting aluminum alloy ideal for dimensionally stable parts in harsh or thermally demanding environments.

A360 aluminum alloy is known for its enhanced corrosion resistance, high-pressure tightness, and excellent castability. It offers a stronger and more stable alternative to A380, particularly in applications where moisture, thermal cycling, or precision casting are primary concerns.

At Neway, we provide precision A360 aluminum die casting services integrated with advanced tool and die making, CNC machining, and surface finishing to ensure tight tolerances and superior component performance.

Key Characteristics of A360 Aluminum Alloy

Property

Value

Density

2.66 g/cm³

Ultimate Tensile Strength

~317 MPa (46,000 psi)

Yield Strength

~170 MPa (24,600 psi)

Elongation at Break

~4.0%

Thermal Conductivity

~96 W/m·K

Electrical Conductivity

~34% IACS

Coefficient of Thermal Expansion

~21.6 µm/m·°C

Brinell Hardness

~75 HB

Corrosion Resistance

Excellent

Pressure Tightness

Excellent

A360 is preferred over A380 in environments where long-term exposure to corrosive agents or high temperatures is expected. Its higher ductility also makes it more tolerant to impact and vibration.

Chemical Composition of A360

Element

Percentage (%)

Silicon (Si)

9.0 – 10.0

Magnesium (Mg)

0.4 – 0.6

Copper (Cu)

≤ 0.6

Iron (Fe)

≤ 1.3

Zinc (Zn)

≤ 0.5

Manganese (Mn)

≤ 0.35

Nickel (Ni)

≤ 0.50

Tin (Sn)

≤ 0.15

Others

≤ 0.50 (total)

Aluminum (Al)

Balance

The higher silicon and magnesium levels improve fluidity, strength, and corrosion resistance, while the reduced copper content minimizes galvanic corrosion risk—ideal for outdoor or marine applications.

Mechanical Properties of A360 Aluminum Alloy

Property

Value (as-cast)

Ultimate Tensile Strength

~317 MPa (46,000 psi)

Yield Strength (0.2% offset)

~170 MPa (24,600 psi)

Elongation at Break

~4.0%

Fatigue Strength (10⁸ cycles)

~120 MPa (17,400 psi)

Modulus of Elasticity

~70 GPa

Brinell Hardness

~75 HB

Compared to A380, A360 offers improved ductility and fatigue resistance, making it better suited for structural components under cyclical stress.

Benefits of Using A360 in Die Casting

  • Superior Corrosion Resistance: Performs well in coastal, humid, and chemically aggressive environments.

  • Excellent Fluidity: Ideal for casting thin-walled, complex geometries with high dimensional accuracy.

  • High Pressure Tightness: Suitable for fluid control systems, housings, and enclosures requiring leak-proof performance.

  • Good Machinability: Allows for tight tolerances and surface quality in secondary processing.

  • Thermal Stability: Maintains structural performance at elevated operating temperatures.

Typical Applications of A360 Die Cast Parts

Due to its strong performance in corrosive or thermally demanding conditions, A360 is widely used in:

  • Automotive: Sensor housings, transmission casings, powertrain brackets

  • Marine Equipment: Enclosures, connectors, pump bodies

  • Industrial Machinery: Hydraulic valve blocks, compressor housings

  • Consumer Electronics: Outdoor enclosures, sealed chassis, LED heat sinks

  • Medical Devices: Durable and lightweight casings for portable equipment

Its reliability in harsh environments makes it a top choice for OEMs seeking performance and longevity.

CNC Machining Considerations for A360

A360 can be machined efficiently, especially when cast with near-net tolerances. High silicon levels require carbide tooling and coolant optimization.

Machining Recommendations:

  • Tooling: Solid carbide or TiAlN-coated tools recommended

  • Speeds/Feeds: Milling 250–500 m/min; feed 0.05–0.2 mm/rev

  • Coolants: Use water-soluble coolant at moderate flow rates

  • Finishing: Surface roughness down to Ra 1.6 µm achievable

  • Tolerances: ±0.03–0.05 mm for critical features

All machining is supported by in-house CNC capability and quality inspection for dimensional accuracy and repeatability.

Surface Treatments for A360 Parts

A360 responds well to various finishing techniques to enhance performance or visual appeal:

  • Anodizing: Compatible for Type II or III coatings to increase wear and corrosion resistance

  • Powder Coating: Adds chemical resistance and custom color finish

  • Painting: UV-resistant and aesthetic finishes for outdoor and consumer parts

  • Tumbling: Deburring and surface preparation before coating

All treatments are validated with standardized tests (ASTM B117, ISO 2409) for coating adhesion and durability.

Why Choose Neway for A360 Aluminum Die Casting?

Neway offers full-process control from die design and tooling fabrication to mass production and engineering support. We deliver precision-cast A360 components with zero-leak standards, minimized porosity, and reliable long-term performance.

FAQs:

  1. What makes A360 more corrosion resistant than A380?

  2. Can A360 aluminum parts be anodized effectively?

  3. What are the ideal applications for A360 in die casting?

  4. How does A360 perform in high-temperature environments?

  5. What machining practices are recommended for A360 components?

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Fenggang, Dongguan, Guangdong
China (ZIP 523000)
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