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ADC12
ADC12 (also designated A383 or EN AB 46100) is the most widely used aluminum die casting alloy globally, accounting for the majority of die-cast aluminum production worldwide. Its excellent die-filling ability, high dimensional accuracy as-cast, and balanced mechanical properties make it the default choice for high-volume automotive, electronics, and appliance components. ADC12 is produced exclusively through die casting — it is not available as bar, plate, or sheet stock — and its near-net-shape capabilities dramatically reduce machining costs in high-production applications.
Advantages
- Excellent die-filling ability — low viscosity at pouring temperature ensures faithful reproduction of thin walls (0.8–1.5 mm) and complex geometries with minimal defects
- High dimensional accuracy — as-cast tolerances of ±0.05 mm/mm achievable without secondary machining; reduces or eliminates post-casting machining
- High-volume production efficiency — rapid cycle times (typically 60–120 seconds) make it highly cost-effective for large production runs
- Good surface finish as-cast — excellent as-cast surface quality (Ra 1.0–2.5μm) reduces or eliminates the need for surface finishing in many applications
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value |
| Density | 2.74 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | 310 MPa |
| Yield Strength | 230 MPa |
| Elongation at Break | 3.5% |
| Shear Strength | 195 MPa |
| Fatigue Strength | 90 MPa |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 85 HB |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 71 GPa |
| Thermal Conductivity | 96 W/m·K |
| Melting Point | 540-580°C |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion | 21.0 × 10⁻⁶ /°C |
| Electrical Conductivity | 27% IACS |
Machining & Manufacturing
| Parameter | Specification | Notes |
| Metal Temperature (Casting Temperature) | 620–680°C | Maintain within ±10°C for consistent quality; higher temperatures improve fill but increase porosity |
| Die (Mold) Temperature | 150–250°C | Preheat dies to 200–250°C before production; maintain 150–200°C during steady-state casting to prevent thermal shock and premature die wear |
| Injection Pressure | 30–80 MPa (4,350–11,600 psi) | High pressure ensures complete cavity filling and minimizes porosity; vacuum-assisted die casting can reduce required pressure |
| Injection Speed | 0.5–5 m/s | Slow fill (0.5–1.5 m/s) for thick sections to avoid entrapped gas; high speed (2–5 m/s) for thin-wall complex parts |
| Cooling Time | 3–10 seconds per mm of wall thickness | Water-cooled die cooling channels significantly reduce cycle time |
| Cycle Time (Typical) | 60–120 seconds for medium-sized parts (100–1,000 cm² projected area) | - |
| Typical Draft Angle | 0.5–1.5° per side | Essential for part ejection without damage; finer drafts on polished surfaces |
| Surface Roughness (As-Cast) | Ra 1.0–2.5μm | Excellent as-cast finish; further finishing depends on application requirements |
Common Applications
Automotive: Engine blocks, cylinder heads, transmission cases, intake manifolds, pump housings, and structural brackets — ADC12 accounts for over 50% of the aluminum in a typical vehicle
Electronics: LED heat sinks, motor housings, junction boxes, and connector bodies — high-volume production with excellent thermal management properties
Home Appliances: Washing machine drums, compressor housings, vacuum cleaner components, and mixer motor bases
Power Tools: Gear housings, motor frames, and structural housings for cordless power tools
Telecommunications: Antenna brackets, junction boxes, and outdoor equipment enclosures requiring good weather resistance
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