What are die castings advantages over production by the thixomold(TM) process?
A. Thixomolding requires a thicker gate inlet which has a tendency to leave a rough surface finish at the gate location. The solid-liquid concentrations inherent in the process are variable, making predictability of part performance difficult. While thixomolders have stated dimensional accuracy comparable to the established tolerances of die casting production, their experience base has yet to be developed. Shorter tool life, compared to die casting, should be expected, since an all-liquid die casting shot has less abrasive characteristics than a semi-solid shot. Thixomolding cavity pressure is two times that of die cast pressure, with the potential for residual stresses mounting more quickly due to higher cavity distortion. With over twice the clamping load required for this process, cycle times are longer due to larger machine sizes, and additional time can mean higher costs. It is often difficult to accurately mold certain intricate net-shape features called for in a product design,
