Zamak ZA 12 Ingot (Aluminum 10.5%-11.5%, Copper 0.5-1.2%, Zinc Balance

Sold by the Ingot.

This ingot measures approximately 1" x 2" x 8.5" and weighs 4 pounds

ZA-12 is the most versatile zinc alloy in terms of combining high performance properties and ease of fabrication using either gravity or pressure die casting. ZA-12 is the best gravity casting alloy for sand, permanent mold and the new graphite mold casting process. It is also a good pressure die casting alloy (cold chamber) which provides a sounder structure than ZA-27, as well as higher die cast elongation and impact properties. For these reasons, die cast ZA-12 often competes with ZA-27 for strength application. An excellent bearing alloy, ZA-12 is also plateable, although plating adhesion is reduced compared to the ZAMAK alloys.

ZA-12 alloy is an excellent combination of mechanical properties and casting ability. Due to its elevated aluminum content, this alloy is cast in a cold chamber die casting machine.

ZA-12 advantages - not sensitive to cooling rate, great machinability (stress relieving temperature - 212 degrees F for 3-6 hours, air cool), great reproduction of pattern detail due to better castability, palatability is similar to zinc die cast parts, lower material costs & casting temperatures versus copper alloys, also used to create prototype/short run parts that can be die casted, has the corrosion resistance of zinc die castings.

Casting - does not separate readily; use a gating/riser system (such as used for red basses or aluminum alloys).  Surface shrinkage occurs on the underside (not upper).

Melting - to be done quickly.  Pouring temperature - below 930 degrees F.

Physical Properties

Density (lb/in3)                      0.218

Melting Point (degree F)         810

Electrical Conductivity            28

(% IACS)

Coefficient of Thermal           12.9

Expansion (68F-212F, uin/in/F)

Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength (ksi)            58

Yield Strength (ksi)               46

Elongation (% in 2”)              6

Shear Strength                    43

Hardness (Brinell)                105