Zamak 5, Zinc-Aluminum-Copper Alloy, Alloy No 5, Zinc Alloy 5, 7440-66-6, 7429-90-5, 7440-50-8, 7439-95-4

Zamak 5, Zinc-Aluminum-Copper Alloy, Alloy No 5, Zinc Alloy 5, 7440-66-6, 7429-90-5, 7440-50-8, 7439-95-4

Overcor Zamak 5 is a zinc-aluminum alloy, also known as ZnAl4Cu1. It is widely used in industries like automotive and accessories due to its excellent performance in plating, painting, and chromating processes. Compared to Zamak 3, it contains 1% copper, which enhances its strength, wear resistance, and hardness by approximately 10%. This makes it ideal for parts requiring durability and improved plating capabilities

Here are the key mechanical properties of Zamak 5:

• Tensile Strength (Ultimate): Approximately 328–331 MPa, indicating its ability to withstand pulling forces.

• Yield Strength: Around 228–295 MPa, which is the stress at which it begins to deform plastically.

• Impact Strength: About 52–65 J, showing its resistance to sudden impacts.

• Hardness: 91 Brinell, reflecting its surface resistance to indentation.

• Elongation at Break: 2–3.6%, which measures its ductility or ability to stretch before breaking.

• Shear Strength: Approximately 262 MPa, indicating its resistance to shearing forces.

• Modulus of Elasticity: Around 84.5–96 GPa, representing its stiffness or rigidity.

• Compressive Yield Strength: Approximately 600 MPa, showing its resistance to compressive forces.

• Fatigue Strength: About 57 MPa, which is its endurance under cyclic loading.

These properties make Zamak 5 a strong, durable, and versatile material, suitable for applications requiring high strength and wear resistance, such as automotive parts and decorative accessories.

Zamak 5 stands out among zinc-based alloys due to its unique composition and properties. Here's how it compares to other alloys:

Comparison with Zamak 3:

• Strength and Hardness: Zamak 5 contains 1% copper, which enhances its strength and hardness compared to Zamak 3. However, this addition slightly reduces its ductility2.

• Corrosion Resistance: Zamak 3 has better corrosion resistance in specific environments because it lacks copper.

• Applications: Zamak 5 is preferred for applications requiring higher mechanical strength, while Zamak 3 is often used for decorative components.

Comparison with ZA Alloys (e.g., ZA-8, ZA-12, ZA-27):

• Strength and Wear Resistance: ZA-27, for example, offers superior strength and wear resistance compared to Zamak 5, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications.

• Castability: Zamak 5 has excellent castability, but ZA alloys like ZA-8 and ZA-12 provide a balance of strength and elongation.

• Corrosion Resistance: Zamak 5 has good corrosion resistance, but ZA alloys may vary depending on their specific composition.

Equivalent Materials:

Zamak 5 is often compared to ZA-8, ZA-12, and ZA-27 as alternatives. These alloys share similar properties but differ in strength, hardness, and castability, making them suitable for different industrial applications.

Zamak 5 is widely used across various industries due to its excellent mechanical properties, castability, and ability to achieve high-quality finishes. Here are some common applications:

• Automotive Industry:

  • Components like door handles, emblems, and other decorative or functional parts.

  • Parts requiring high strength and durability.

• Consumer Electronics:

  • Housings for devices like cameras, smartphones, and remote controls.

  • Structural and aesthetic parts for appliances.

• Hardware and Tools:

  • Precision components for tools and fasteners.

  • Items requiring wear resistance and reliability.

• Furniture and Home Décor:

  • Decorative fittings such as handles, knobs, and trims.

  • Stylish and durable home accessories.

• Toys and Models:

  • Durable and detailed parts for collectible models, toys, and gadgets.

• Industrial Components:

  • Parts for machinery that require good dimensional stability.

  • Functional components in high-pressure environments.

• Fashion Accessories:

  • Belt buckles, zippers, and other metal fittings.

Zamak 5 possesses a combination of properties that make it highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications. Here's what stands out:

1. High Strength and Hardness: Its mechanical properties, such as tensile strength (~328–331 MPa) and hardness (91 Brinell), allow it to endure mechanical stresses, making it ideal for durable components.

2. Excellent Castability: Zamak 5 is particularly well-suited for high-pressure die casting. This allows manufacturers to create intricate, detailed, and consistent shapes, which is essential for decorative and functional parts.

3. Good Dimensional Stability: It maintains its shape and precision over time, even under stress or varying temperatures, ensuring reliable performance in critical applications.

4. Wear Resistance: The addition of copper enhances its wear resistance, which is beneficial for components subjected to frequent use or friction.

5. Versatile Finishing Options: Zamak 5 performs well in plating, painting, and chromating processes, allowing for appealing aesthetics and enhanced surface protection.

6. Corrosion Resistance: While not the best among zinc alloys, it still offers good resistance to corrosion in various environments, extending its lifespan.

7. Cost-Effectiveness: Its relatively low melting point (~380°C) reduces energy consumption during production, making it economically attractive.

Zamak 5 is known by various names or descriptions, depending on the context. Here are some alternative names or terms associated with it:

1. ZnAl4Cu1: Refers to its chemical composition.

2. Zinc-Aluminum-Copper Alloy: Highlights its key components.

3. Zinc Die-Casting Alloy 5: Used in the casting industry.

4. Alloy No. 5: Often referred to in standards or specifications.

5. Zinc Alloy 5: A general designation in some industries