The comparison between ADC12 and A380 cast aluminum alloys
ADC12 vs. A380 Aluminum Alloy Comparison Table
| Comparison Dimension | ADC12 (JIS Standard) | A380 (ASTM Standard) |
| Standard System | Japanese JIS H5302 (Recycled Al) | American ASTM B85 (Primary Al) |
| Material Source | Recycled scrap aluminum (≥80%) | Primary aluminum + virgin alloys |
| Key Composition | - Si 9.6-12.0% | - Si 7.5-9.5% |
| Impurity Tolerance | ≤3.5% (Fe≤1.3%, Mn≤0.5%, Zn≤1.0%) | ≤2.0% (Fe≤1.3%, Mn≤0.5%, Zn≤3.0%) |
| Typical Mechanical Properties | - Tensile strength ≥228 MPa | - Tensile strength ≥320 MPa |
| Process Compatibility | Optimized for die casting | Die casting/Sand casting/Simple permanent mold |
| Cost Positioning | Low-cost (recycled materials) | Medium-high (virgin material control) |
Core Differences Analysis
1. Performance Differentiation
- Silicon Content
ADC12's higher Si (9.6-12% vs. 7.5-9.5%):
- Enhances fluidity for thin-wall die casting (e.g., 3C product housings)
- A380's lower Si improves tensile strength (+40%) and ductility (+150%)
- Copper Content
A380's higher Cu (3-4% vs. 1.5-3.5%):
- Copper Content
- Boosts high-temperature strength (ideal for engine brackets)
- Reduces corrosion resistance (requires surface treatments)
- Impurity Impact
ADC12's higher impurities (3.5% vs. 2.0%):
- Impurity Impact
- Increases porosity by 15-20%
- Lowers thermal conductivity 10-15% (critical for heat sinks)
2. Process Compatibility
| Process | ADC12 Suitability | A380 Suitability |
| High-pressure Die Casting | ★★★★★ (Optimized) | ★★★★☆ (Parameter adjustment needed) |
| Sand Casting | ★☆☆☆☆ (Prone to hot tearing) | ★★★★☆ (Preferred method) |
| Permanent Mold Casting | ★★☆☆☆ (Simple geometries only) | ★★★☆☆ (Requires slow cooling) |
| Vacuum Die Casting | ★★☆☆☆ (Impurity challenges) | ★★★★☆ (High air-tightness parts) |
Application Scenarios
ADC12 Dominant Applications
- Automotive: Valve covers, sensor brackets (1.5-3mm wall thickness)
- Appliances: AC compressor housings (cost-driven components)
- General Machinery: Pump casings (non-load-bearing parts)
A380 Dominant Applications
- Powertrain: Engine mounts, transmission cases (fatigue resistance)
- Industrial Equipment: Hydraulic blocks (high stiffness required)
- Aerospace: Non-structural brackets (strength-to-weight optimization)
Foundry Expert Recommendations
- Cost-Driven Projects
- Use ADC12: Ideal for painted/electrophoresis parts (masks porosity)
- Avoid for anodizing (impurity-induced color variation)
- Performance-Critical Applications
- Choose A380: Combine with T5 heat treatment (+15-20% strength)
- Implement mold temperature control for complex geometries
- Special Process Requirements
- Welded components: Prefer A380 (lower Si reduces hot cracking)
- Thermal management parts: Avoid ADC12 (thermal inconsistency)
- This technical comparison enables engineers and purchasers to make informed material decisions. For free DFM analysis templatesor defect prevention guides, contact our technical team.