Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.

The cost of die casting aluminum depends on several factors, including part complexity, production volume, alloy type, and tooling requirements. 

1.Here’s a breakdown of the key cost drivers:

a.Tooling Costs:Die Creation: Initial mold (die) costs are high, ranging from $5,000 to $100,000+ depending on complexity, size, and precision. Simple single-cavity dies are cheaper; multi-cavity or intricate dies are pricier.Lifespan: Dies last 50,000–150,000 shots for aluminum, spreading costs over high-volume runs.

b.Material Costs:Aluminum Alloys: Common alloys like A380 or 6061 cost $1–$2 per pound (2025 prices, approximate). Part weight directly affects material costs.Scrap/Recycling: Aluminum’s recyclability can reduce material costs by reusing sprues and runners.

c.Production Costs:Machine Operation: Die casting machines (hot or cold chamber) cost $50–$200 per hour to operate, depending on size and region. Cycle times (seconds to minutes) impact per-part costs.Labor: Setup and finishing (trimming, deburring) add $10–$50 per hour, varying by location and automation level.Volume: High volumes (10,000+ parts) reduce per-unit costs significantly (e.g., $0.50–$5 per part), while low volumes (100–1,000 parts) can cost $10–$50 per part due to tooling amortization.

d.Post-Processing:Machining/Finishing: CNC machining, polishing, or coatings (e.g., anodizing) add $0.50–$10 per part.Heat Treatment: Stress relief or T6 tempering can add $0.20–$2 per part.

e.Other Factors:Alloy Type: Premium alloys (e.g., A356 for aerospace) are costlier than standard A380.Part Complexity: Intricate designs with thin walls or undercuts increase die and production costs.Location: Costs vary by region (e.g., lower in China or Mexico, higher in the U.S. or Europe due to labor and energy rates).