A383 aluminum is a popular die-casting alloy that design engineers specify as an alternative to A380, allowing them to cast more intricate components. Are you interested in A383’s composition, applications, and suitability for your die-cast part?
Read on for essential information about the alloy and a comparison to A380 to help you determine if it is the most appropriate choice for you.
Table of Contents
Aluminum A383 (ADC12) Chemical Composition
This alloy is a member of the 3xx.x series — the most common series for die castings. A383 is primarily alloyed with silicon and copper. Here, you can see a breakdown of its alloying elements alongside those of A380.
| SL. No | Element | A383 | A380 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Copper (Cu) | 2.0-3.0% | 3.0-4.0% |
| 2 | Iron (Fe) | ≤1.3% | ≤1.3% |
| 3 | Magnesium (Mg) | 0.1-0.3% | ≤0.1% |
| 4 | Manganese (Mn) | ≤0.5% | ≤0.5% |
| 5 | Nickel (Ni) | ≤0.5% | ≤0.5% |
| 6 | Silicon (Si) | 9.5-11.5% | 7.5-9.5% |
| 7 | Tin (Sn) | ≤0.15% | ≤0.35% |
| 8 | Zinc (Zn) | ≤3.0% | ≤3.0% |
There are two things to note about the alloy’s composition:
- The main alloying element is silicon (9.5-11.5%), which enhances the alloy’s fluidity, allowing it to flow easily into complex molds during the die-casting process. Its higher silicon content reduces hot cracking and enables the casting of more intricate parts than A380.
- Copper content is in the range of 2-3%, which contributes to its tensile strength and hardness. It also contributes to making it more corrosion resistant than A380. (NADCA)
Mechanical Properties of A383 Aluminum
Engineers generally regard A383 as an alternative to A380 because it has similar mechanical properties overall but with improved resistance to hot cracking and better die-filling capacity. Here are some key mechanical properties of the alloy.
| SL. No. | Description | A383 | A380 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hardness, Brinell | 75 | 80 |
| 2 | Tensile Strength,Ultimate (MPa) | 310 | 324 |
| 3 | Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | 152 | 159 |
| 4 | Elongation % in 2in. (51mm) | 3.5 | 3.5 |
Owing to its similar mechanical properties, this alloy can be suitable for many similar applications to those of A380.
Physical Properties of A383 Aluminum
Here are some key physical properties of the alloy.
| SL. No. | Description | A383 | A380 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thermal Conductivity (W/m °K) | 96 | 96 |
| 2 | Electrical Conductivity %IACS | 23 | 23 |
High thermal conductivity in aluminum alloys, like A383, enhances their suitability for die-casting applications, particularly in industries where effective heat dissipation is essential for maintaining performance and durability, such as automotive and communication. (MDPI)
Applications of the A383 Aluminum Alloy
A383 aluminum is a die-casting alloy that can be used for diverse applications, and some of the most common are:
- Automotive: Companies use A383 aluminum to make various automotive components such as engine brackets, engine blocks, and transmission housings.
- Electronics: Another common application is consumer electronics casings, the alloy’s lightweight and corrosion resistant properties are well-suited to this.
- Other: Manufacturers often use A383 to produce furniture, machinery components, and household appliances.
So, how does this alloy compare to A380, which is widely considered the ‘default’ casting alloy?
A383 vs. A380
When considering the alloy’s chemical composition, a key difference between these two alloys is A383’s higher silicon content. This gives the alloy more fluidity in its liquid form and resistance to hot cracking. (NADCA)
A383 allows for more intricate designs than A380, due to its ability to fill complex molds and thin walls.
Surface Finishing for This Alloy
Die-cast parts made from A383 can accept surface finishes such as anodization and powder coating to enhance their appearance and corrosion resistance. However, keep in mind that it is a challenging alloy to finish and requires additional pretreatments.
Need a Second Opinion?
At Gabrian, we offer custom die-cast parts produced in India and can make alloy recommendations for your part. Contact us today to discuss the details of your project, and we’ll be happy to provide you with a part review and quote. Learn more about our die casting services.
