Zinc die casting is used for producing a wide range of parts and components within numerous industrial applications. The mechanical properties of zinc alloy die castings at average temperatures are superior to sand castings of grey iron, brass, and aluminum, particularly toughness and impact strength.
These die cast parts can be made to very close tolerances. Zinc die casting can be carried out at room temperature or at higher temperatures. At room temperature, the melting point is about 230 °C (450 °F). At higher temperatures, it can be as high as 550 °C (1050 °F).
In most cases, it is preferable to use higher temperatures. However, lower temperatures can be used with certain types of materials and applications. Zinc can be melted zinc die casting manufacturers easily using oil- or gas-fired furnaces. The zinc melts at about 20 to 30 °C (60 to 90 °F) hotter than the mold itself.
Therefore, for efficient operation, the metal has to be heated by about 30 °C (54 °F). There are three different methods for melting the metal:.
The first two of these heating methods are commonly used today. The third method was once widely used for manufacturing die castings.
