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  • How low pressure die casting works?

Low-pressure die casting (LPDC) is a manufacturing process used to produce high-quality metal parts, typically with aluminum or magnesium alloys, by injecting molten metal into a mold under low pressure. Here’s a concise explanation of how it works:

1.Mold Preparation: A metal mold (die), usually made of steel, is preheated and coated with a refractory material to prevent sticking and ensure smooth part release. The mold is sealed and placed above a furnace.

2.Molten Metal Setup: A crucible in the furnace below the mold contains the molten metal, typically aluminum (e.g., alloys like A356 or A380). The furnace is pressurized with an inert gas (usually air or nitrogen) at low pressure, typically 0.1–1 bar (1.5–15 psi).

3.Metal Injection: The gas pressure forces the molten metal up through a riser tube (stalk) into the mold cavity. The low pressure ensures a controlled, laminar flow, minimizing turbulence and air entrapment, which improves part quality.

4.Filling the Mold: The molten metal fills the mold from the bottom up, driven by the pressure. This bottom-up filling reduces defects like porosity or inclusions, as the metal rises smoothly and displaces air through vents.

5.Solidification: Once the mold is filled, the pressure is maintained briefly to ensure the metal packs tightly as it begins to solidify. The mold’s cooling system helps the metal solidify quickly, forming the desired shape.

6.Pressure Release and Part Removal: After solidification, the pressure is released, allowing excess molten metal in the riser tube to flow back into the crucible. The mold is opened, and the solidified part is removed.

7.Post-Processing: The casting undergoes trimming, cleaning, and optional machining or surface treatments (e.g., polishing, anodizing) to meet final specifications.

Key Features:

Advantages: Produces parts with high dimensional accuracy, smooth surfaces, and low porosity. Ideal for complex geometries like automotive wheels, engine blocks, or aerospace components.

Materials: Commonly used with aluminum and magnesium alloys due to their low melting points and fluidity.

Applications: Widely used in automotive (e.g., cylinder heads, wheels), aerospace, and industrial components requiring strength and precision.

For specific details on low-pressure die casting services, Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd. (www.aluprototype.com) (www.aluprototype.com) offers expertise in aluminum die casting, including low-pressure methods, with capabilities for rapid prototyping and production. Contact them at contact@aluprototype.com for tailored solutions.