Wall thickness is an important aspect to consider when it comes to die casting. Typically, the wall thickness in aluminum die-casting parts varies based on several factors such as the part’s complexity, the specific requirements, the material being used, and the size. But what exactly is wall thickness?
Well, as the name suggests, wall thickness refers to how big or chunky the wall of the die-cast part is. The distance between two parallel surfaces in die casting is what we refer to as wall thickness. As mentioned, the wall thickness for aluminum die-casting parts varies mostly based on the design being produced.
In some materials, they will need thicker walls so that they are strong and durable. Others can achieve their desirable functions by having thinner walls. Factors such as cooling and shrinkage during the die-cast process can also affect the wall thickness of a material.
Now, wall thickness is of great importance. That is why it is vital to work with a company that will help you achieve the desirable wall thickness for your casting. In this case, you can count on Sunrise Metal. We have a team of experienced professionals who pay attention to detail on the wall thickness to ensure that you get parts that will not only function properly but also stand the test of time. Besides, we are equipped with the necessary die-cast equipment that comes in handy when producing castings with the desired wall thickness.
That said, stick around to learn more about wall thickness in aluminum die-casting parts!
Why is Wall Thickness Important for Die-Casting Products
As mentioned earlier, wall thickness is of great importance when it comes to die-casting parts. Here are several reasons why you should pay close attention to it!
Determines the Strength and Rigidity of the Casting
Wall thickness has a direct impact on the strength and rigidity of the casting. If you produce castings with thicker walls, they will have a strong resistance to external forces and therefore will not break easily. Moreover, thicker wall castings do not deform easily. However, the material used in casting and the kind of application this casting will be used determines the thickness to be used.
Affects the Weight of the Casting
A thicker wall means more material is used on it therefore resulting in a heavier casting. On the other hand, having a smaller wall thickness means that you reduce the material volume so its weight is considerably reduced. Die-cast manufacturers need to have the perfect balance for wall thickness weight ensuring that the die-cast remains strong and functions as desired.
Determines the Cost of Casting
The rule of thumb is, the thicker the wall casting is, the more material it needs so the higher the cost. Conversely, a thinner wall will not require so much casting material and will most likely be cheaper to manufacture.
Affects the Ease of Casting
Wall casting affects the ease of casting. When working with excessively thick walls, such requires longer cooling times. Also, they face shrinkage issues. On the other hand, a thinner wall poses challenges in mold filling and can cause incomplete casts. It is important to achieve optimal wall thickness that will not affect the casting process so that you get a high-quality material that functions well.
Affects the Appearance of the Casting
Wall thickness is also important because it influences the appearance of the casting. Die-casting very thick walls can result in uneven surfaces and overly thin walls can fail to capture fine details. Ensuring an optimal thickness during die casting will ensure you get an aesthetically pleasing surface that captures the design’s intricate features well.
What Are the Minimum Wall Thickness for Aluminum Die Castings?
The minimum wall thickness for aluminum die casting varies depending on the size and how complex the part is. In most cases, the required minimum wall thickness for aluminum die casting is as follows:
- 5 mm or 0.020 in for small castings
- 0 mm or 0.040 in for medium-sized castings
- 0 mm or 0.080 in for large castings
You should however note that this is not the rule to always abide by. The minimum wall thickness can always be adjusted based on the specific requirements of the application.
What is the Maximum Wall Thickness for Aluminum Diecastings?
Unlike in the minimum wall thickness, here factors such as the strength of the mold come into play. Also, the alloy being used, its size, and the complexity of the part will determine the maximum wall thickness to use. Here are the most used maximum wall thicknesses for aluminum die castings:
- 5mm or 0.20 in for small castings
- 10 mm or 0.40 in for medium-sized castings
- 15 mm or 0.60 in for large castings
Also, you can always adjust the maximum wall thickness depending on the specific requirements of the application.
What is the Best Thickness for Al Die Casting Part?
Before determining the best thickness for the aluminum die-casting part, first know the specific application for the final product. This should guide you alongside the following rules:
- Ensure that the wall thickness used is enough to ensure the die-cast is strong and rigid for the set application
- Determine the cost of casting and use it as a guiding factor when determining the best thickness
- Know that the wall thickness you select might affect the overall structure and look of the die-cast part
- Consider the ease of casting
- Ensure that the wall thickness you select can be produced well without defects by the available tools and equipment
Conclusion
It is vital to understand the factors that can affect wall thickness when selecting the appropriate one for your casting. The points above can effectively guide you in making the right decision when it comes to determining the best wall thickness for aluminum die casting. Besides, select a good die-cast manufacturer to help with the production of the best aluminum die-cast parts with the right thickness. At Sunrise Metal, we will ensure you get the castings you need and at your desired and appropriate thickness. Request a quote from us today!