Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.

Casting aluminum is classified based on the alloy composition, casting process, and intended application. Below is a concise overview of the classifications relevant to a company like Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd., which specializes in advanced manufacturing, including aluminum casting:

1. By Alloy Composition

Aluminum alloys used in casting are broadly divided into two categories based on their chemical composition:

Wrought Alloys: Primarily used for processes like rolling or extrusion, but some are adapted for casting (e.g., 1xxx, 3xxx, 5xxx series). These are less common in casting but may be used for specific prototype applications.

Casting Alloys: Designed specifically for casting due to their fluidity and castability. Common series include:

2xx.x: Aluminum-Copper alloys (e.g., 201.0, 206.0). High strength, good machinability, but lower corrosion resistance.

3xx.x: Aluminum-Silicon alloys (e.g., 356.0, 319.0). Most widely used due to excellent castability, corrosion resistance, and versatility. Often alloyed with magnesium or copper for added strength.

4xx.x: Aluminum-Silicon alloys with higher silicon content (e.g., 443.0). Good fluidity, used for intricate castings.

5xx.x: Aluminum-Magnesium alloys (e.g., 514.0). High corrosion resistance, suitable for marine applications.

7xx.x: Aluminum-Zinc alloys (e.g., 710.0). High strength but less common due to casting challenges.

8xx.x: Aluminum-Tin alloys (e.g., 850.0). Used for bearings due to low friction properties.

2. By Casting Process

Aluminum casting processes, as likely employed by a company like Alu Rapid, are classified based on the method used to form the part:

Die Casting: High-pressure injection of molten aluminum into steel molds. Ideal for high-volume, precision parts with tight tolerances (e.g., automotive components). Common alloys: A380, A356.

Sand Casting: Molten aluminum poured into sand molds. Cost-effective for low-volume or large parts, often used in prototyping. Common alloys: 319.0, 356.0.

Investment Casting (Lost Wax): Uses a wax pattern coated in ceramic, melted out, and replaced with molten aluminum. Suitable for complex, high-precision parts. Common alloys: A356, 201.0.

Permanent Mold Casting: Uses reusable metal molds for better surface finish and dimensional accuracy than sand casting. Common for medium-volume production.

Vacuum Casting: Often used in prototyping (a specialty of Alu Rapid), where molten aluminum is drawn into a mold under vacuum to reduce defects. Ideal for small-batch, high-quality parts.

Lost Foam Casting: A foam pattern is used, vaporized by molten aluminum. Good for complex geometries with minimal post-processing.

3. By Application

Aluminum castings are also classified based on their end-use, aligning with industries served by Alu Rapid (e.g., medical, aerospace, automotive):

Structural Castings: High-strength components for aerospace or automotive frames (e.g., 201.0, A356).

Functional Prototypes: Used in rapid prototyping for testing form, fit, and function, often via vacuum casting or sand casting.

Aesthetic Components: Parts requiring superior surface finish, such as consumer electronics housings, often made via die casting or investment casting.

Specialized Castings: For specific needs like heat resistance (e.g., engine parts) or corrosion resistance (e.g., marine components).

4 By Heat Treatment

Aluminum castings can be further classified by heat treatment to enhance properties:

As-Cast (F): No heat treatment, used for non-critical applications.

T4: Solution heat-treated and naturally aged for improved ductility.

T6: Solution heat-treated and artificially aged for maximum strength (e.g., A356-T6 for aerospace parts).

T7: Over-aged for dimensional stability, often used in high-temperature applications.