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Aluminum Alloys

We work with three primary aluminum alloys. Choosing the right one determines your part's strength, ductility, heat treatability, and cost.

Alloy Selector Tool

Which Alloy Is Right for You?

Answer these questions to narrow down your choice.

Q1: Is T6 heat treatment required?

Yes

→ A356 or ZL114 (gravity/low-pressure casting)

No

→ ADC12 may work if volume is high

Q2: Does the part need to be pressure-tight?

Yes

→ Low-pressure casting with A356 (near-zero porosity)

No

→ Gravity casting with A356/ZL114 also viable

Q3: Part size > 600 mm?

Yes

→ Gravity casting (up to 1.2 m) or sand casting

No

→ All processes applicable

Q4: Annual volume > 10,000 pcs with thin walls?

Yes

→ Die casting with ADC12

No

→ Gravity casting usually more cost-effective

Q5: Chinese GB standard required?

Yes

→ ZL114 (matches GB/T 1173)

No

→ A356 (ASTM) is internationally accepted

Still unsure? Our engineers will recommend the right alloy for your application.

Ask an Engineer