Cost	Diecasting is a cost-effective, high volume manufacturing process, with machines that can run at high speeds. Tool (die) life is long, especially for zinc and magnesium, with many projects never requiring replacement tooling. A single diecasting can often replace an assembly of several separate parts. Costly machining requirements are often eliminated.
Net Shape	Parts are usually produced 'net shape'. This results in closer tolerances than many other manufacturing processes, including those for complex geometries, holes and threads. Frequently, consolidation of additional features eliminates assembly operations. Where machining is required, the machining allowance can be as low as 0.25mm.
Quality	Consistent quality is achieved over high volumes with excellent dimensional accuracy and stability. Tight tolerances are achieved 'as cast' and minimal draft angles are required.
Properties	Diecasting alloys are durable, have good strength and hardness and exhibit high electrical and thermal conductivity. They may be cast with thin walls and textures ranging from smooth to coarse. Diecastings can be produced with thinner walls than those obtainable by other casting methods and are much stronger and stiffer than plastic injection moldings with the same dimensions.
Environment	Diecastings offer good corrosion resistance with good finishing characteristics, excellent EMI shielding properties and full recyclability.

Myths About Die Casting

Plastics are cheaper	Where strength, product life, EMI shielding and recyclability are issues, diecast products are frequently more cost effective due to the extra reinforcement and other operations required for plastics.
High tooling cost	Relatively low cost and with longer tool life, state-of-the-art technologies can significantly reduce the impact of tooling on the component cost.
Only for non-load bearing applications	Attention to the detail in component and casting design, along with state-of-the-art process control, results in castings which can be used in load bearing applications.
Pressure diecastings cannot be plated	Advances in diecasting technology have produced diecastings which can be plated or coated, giving a very high standard of decorative finish comparable to plastics.

Comparison of Diecastings With Other Processes

	Diecasting Advantages	Diecasting Weaknesses
Plastic Moldings	Faster production, stiffer, stronger, higher strength-to-weight ratio, dimensionally stable (even under load), heat resistant, EMI shielding, no UV degradation, electrically conductive, fully recyclable.	May be more costly, only one color 'as cast'.
Investment Castings	Faster production (more economical for large quantities), less machining, more accurate, more intricate geometry.	Weaker mechanical properties, more expensive tooling.
Forgings	Faster production, tighter tolerances, thinner walls, more complex shapes.	Restricted to non-ferrous alloys, weaker mechanical properties.
Pressings/ stampings	Tighter tolerances, wall thickness variation, more complex shapes, fewer parts & assembly operations	Not in steel, no wrought metal properties, often more expensive tooling

Materials Used In Die Casting

• Aluminum Alloy, including AL14130 (ZL102), A13600 (ZL104), A380, etc.
  
• Zinc Alloy, including 915, 905, etc.

Finishes Available:

• Anodizing
  
• Plating
  
• Powder Coating
  
• Painting