Aug 6 2013
Topics Covered
Introduction
Chemical Composition
Physical Properties
Mechanical Properties
Other Designations
Applications
Introduction
Die cast zinc alloys are the most versatile alloys available, with applications from bath fittings to electronic components. Die castings dominate the total volume production of alloys. Zinc castings offer a number of advantages like hardness, durability, self-lubricating and good strength. The production of zinc castings is also easy, as the casting tolerances are fairly accurate.
Zinc die casts can be given a variety of finishes like gold, steel, weathered brass and even leather. Zinc has a high density; hence its alloys are more durable than their plastic counterparts. The main 4 alloys are ZP3, ZP5, ZP2 and ZP8. These die cast alloys are produced in hot chambers in adherence with the European Standard – EN12844. Among the die cast alloys ZP3 and ZP5 are most widely used.
This datasheet will look into the chemical composition, properties and applications of zinc die casting alloy – ZP2.
Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of zinc die casting alloy – ZP2 is given in the following table.
Element |
Content (%) |
Zinc, Zn |
Remainder |
Aluminum, Al |
4.3-3.7 |
Copper, Cu |
2.7-3.3 |
Magnesium, Mn |
0.05-0.025 |
Iron, Fe |
0.05 |
Silicon, Si |
0.03 |
Nickel, Ni |
0.02 |
Lead, Pb |
0.005 |
Cadmium, Cd |
0.005 |
Tin, Sn |
0.002 |
Physical Properties
The following table discusses the physical properties of zinc die casting alloy- ZP2.
Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
Density |
6.6 gm/cm3 |
0.24 lb/in3 |
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties of zinc die casting alloy – ZP2 are tabulated below.
Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
Tensile strength |
397 MPa |
57 ksi |
Yield strength |
361 MPa |
52 ksi |
Elongation at Break |
6% |
6% |
Poissons Ratio |
0.29 |
0.29 |
Other Designations
Some of the designations used to denote zinc die casting alloy –ZP2 are listed below:-
-
UNS Z35541
-
SAE 921
-
ASTM B240/ASTM B669 – AG43A
Applications
The zinc die casting alloy – ZP2 is used in the following applications:-
-
Door, window and bath fittings
-
Office equipment
-
Automotive equipment
-
Electronic components.