Jul 10 2013
Zamak is a family of alloys having a zinc base metal and alloying elements such as copper, magnesium, and aluminum. These alloys can be electroplated, wet painted and chromate conversion coated.
Zamak 2 alloy, often referred to as Kirksite, exhibits high strength and hardness. Its high copper content results to changes in property upon long term aging. The alloy also possesses excellent castability and creep resistance higher than that of other zamak alloys.
The following section will discuss in detail about grade zamak 2 alloy.
Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of grade zamak 2 alloy is outlined in the following table.
| Element |
Content (%) |
| Aluminum, Al |
3.8-4.2 |
| Copper, Cu |
2.7-3.3 |
| Magnesium, Mg |
0.035-0.06 |
| Iron, Fe |
0.02 |
| Silicon, Si |
0.02 |
| Lead, Pb |
0.003 |
| Cadmium, Cd |
0.003 |
| Tin, Sn |
0.001 |
| Nickel, Ni |
0.001 |
Physical Properties
The following table shows the physical properties of grade zamak 2 alloy.
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Density |
6.6 g/cm3 |
0.238 lb/in3 |
| Melting point |
1435-1446°C |
2615-2635°F |
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties of grade zamak 2 alloy (as cast) are displayed in the following table.
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Tensile strength |
360 MPa |
52213.5 psi |
| Shear strength |
317 MPa |
45976.9 psi |
| Elongation at break |
7% |
7% |
| Brinell hardness |
100 |
100 |
Thermal Properties
The thermal properties of grade zamak 2 alloy are given in the following table.
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Thermal expansion co-efficient |
27.8 µm/m°C |
15.4 µin/in°F |
| Thermal conductivity |
105 W/mK |
729 BTU.in/hrft².°F |
Applications
The following are the list of applications of grade zamak 2 alloy:
- Metal forming dies
- Plastic injection tools
- Industrial fittings and gears.