Marine aluminum castings from jiachuan's blog

Aluminum castings are widely used throughout the marine industry. Aluminum's high weight-to-strength ratio and non-corrosive properties make aluminum castings ideal for marine applications.

Why are aluminum alloys used in marine applications?

Aluminum is a very reactive metal, which means it has the property of oxidizing very quickly. While a weak point for most metals, this quality is actually the key to its ability to resist corrosion. When oxygen is present (in air, soil or water), aluminum reacts immediately to form alumina. This aluminum oxide layer is chemically bonded to the surface and seals the core aluminum to prevent any further reaction. This is quite different from oxidation (corrosion) of steel or iron, where the rust expands and flakes off, constantly exposing new metal to corrosion. Aluminum's oxide film is tough, hard, and instantly renews itself. Therefore, aluminum alloys are widely used in marine applications due to their corrosion resistance.

Why are aluminum castings used in marine applications?

Casting methods for marine aluminum alloys can be gravity die casting, die casting or sand casting. Choose any aluminum casting process according to the structure of the component. For example, for ADC12, a material with very thin wall thickness, die casting is preferred. But if the quantity is not large, in order to save cost, we can also choose gravity casting.

The casting process offers many advantages over other metal forming processes such as forging, welding, stamping, rolling, extrusion, etc. The reasons for the success of the foundry process are:

Due to physical properties, some metals can only be cast because they cannot be reshaped into rods, rods, plates or other shapes.

This is a process that is highly adaptable to mass production requirements. A large number of given castings can be produced quickly.

Certain lightweight aluminum alloys can only be produced as castings due to their respective advantages and disadvantages.

Exhibits excellent load-carrying qualities.

Advantages of Marine Aluminum Castings

Low cost, precision, long life tools

Unit cost savings compared to alternative manufacturing methods

Durable, cleanable finish that can be painted, powder coated or anodized.

Lightweight aluminum alloy with exceptional strength

Ability to cast complex features

excellent corrosion resistance