Description
Aluminium ADC 12 is an alloy supplied for casting manufacturing and industrial metal processing applications.
Aluminium ADC12 is renowned for its exceptional fluidity, dimensional stability, and cost-effectiveness in high-volume production of complex parts.
Key Properties
The composition of ADC12, an Al-Si-Cu alloy, provides a beneficial balance of casting and mechanical properties.
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 310 MPa |
| Yield Strength | 150 MPa |
| Elongation (Ductility) | 3.5% |
| Hardness (Brinell) | ~75 HB to 100 HB |
| Density | 2.74 g/cm³ |
| Melting Range | 540 – 580 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | ~96 W/m·K |
- Excellent Castability: The high silicon content (9.6-12.0%) significantly improves the alloy’s fluidity, enabling manufacturers to cast intricate, thin-walled components with minimal shrinkage and defects.
- Good Machinability: Silicon particles act as chip breakers, aiding the machining process, though tool wear should be monitored.
- Corrosion Resistance: It offers good general corrosion resistance, but the higher copper content makes it more susceptible to pitting in harsh or marine environments, often requiring surface treatments like powder coating for protection.
- Heat Treatment: ADC12 is typically used in the as-cast condition. While minor stress-relieving is possible, it does not respond well to full solution heat treatments (like T6 temper) due to internal porosity and blistering risks.
Common Applications
Due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness in mass production, ADC12 is used across various industries:
- Automotive Industry: Engine brackets, transmission cases, engine covers, and sensor housings that require complex geometries and good heat dissipation.
- Electronics: Enclosures, laptop and smartphone casings, and heat sinks due to its thermal conductivity and ability to form intricate designs.
- Industrial Machinery: Components such as pump and valve housings, bearings, and general machine parts that need high tensile strength and dimensional stability.
- Household Appliances: Parts for vacuum cleaners, washing machines, and lighting fixtures, benefiting from its durability and dimensional stability.
ADC12 is an excellent choice when prioritizing complex, thin-walled designs and high-volume production efficiency over maximum structural strength or extreme corrosion resistance.
