When are ZA alloys the optimum choice for a die cast part?
A. The high aluminum content zinc alloys in the ZA group contain substantially more Al than the Zamak alloys, with the ZA numerical designation representing their approximate percent aluminum content. The higher aluminum and copper content of the ZA alloys give them several distinct advantages over the traditional zinc alloys, including far higher strength, superior wear resistance, superior creep resistance and lower densities. ZA-8, with a nominal Al content of 8.4%, is the only ZA alloy that can be cast by the faster-cycling hot-chamber process. It has the highest strength of any hot-chamber zinc alloy, and the highest creep strength of any zinc alloy. ZA-8 offers excellent bearing properties, with lighter weight and greater strength than iron and bronze. It is used to produce net- and near-net-shape parts with extremely thin walls, replacing heavily machined part designs or iron, bronze or steel. For detailed information on ZA Alloy properties, die casting, and post-casting charact
