A360 is an aluminum-silicon-magnesium casting alloy known for corrosion resistance, ductility, dimensional stability, and pressure-tightness potential. It is commonly used in aluminum die casting applications and can also be specified for aluminum casting projects where the drawing or material standard requires this alloy.
What Is A360 Aluminum Alloy?
A360 is an aluminum casting alloy within the aluminum-silicon-magnesium family, commonly associated with aluminum die casting applications. It is frequently selected when corrosion resistance, ductility, dimensional stability, or pressure-tightness are prioritized over general-purpose castability. While A360 is often compared with A380, the two alloys differ in composition priorities and performance characteristics, necessitating alignment with project requirements.
A360 Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of A360 is formulated to support specific mechanical and environmental performance.
| Element | Reference range |
|---|---|
| Si | 9.0–10.0 % |
| Cu | ≤ 0.6 % |
| Fe | ≤ 1.3 % |
| Zn | ≤ 0.5 % |
| Mn | ≤ 0.35 % |
| Ni | ≤ 0.5 % |
| Mg | 0.4–0.6 % |
| Sn | ≤ 0.15 % |
| Al | Balance |
Silicon supports fluidity and the filling of complex geometries, while magnesium contributes to strength and corrosion resistance. The lower copper content, compared to alloys like A380, is a primary factor in A360’s improved corrosion resistance. Composition should follow the required standard, drawing requirement, and certified material report.
A360 Mechanical Properties
Mechanical performance in A360 components depends on the casting process, tooling design, wall thickness, cooling conditions, porosity control, and inspection requirements.
| Property | Reference value |
|---|---|
| Tensile strength | about 320 MPa |
| Yield strength | about 170 MPa |
| Elongation | about 3.5 % |
| Hardness | about 75 HB |
| Shear strength | about 180 MPa |
| Fatigue strength | about 120 MPa |
These values serve as reference data for A360 and should not be interpreted as guaranteed results for every production batch. Actual performance is verified through testing based on the unique conditions of the cast component.
A360 Physical and Thermal Properties
| Property | Reference value |
|---|---|
| Density | about 2.63 g/cm³ |
| Melting range | about 555–595 °C |
Casting Processes for A360
A360 can be used in aluminum casting projects when required by the drawing, customer standard, or material specification. At Minhe foundry, we support gravity casting, low pressure casting, and sand casting projects, with the process route planned according to part structure, wall thickness, production volume, machining allowance, and quality requirements.
Gravity Casting
Gravity casting can be used for A360 parts with stable wall sections and mold layouts that support controlled metal flow and solidification. This route is suitable for medium-size housings, covers, brackets, and structural aluminum components where dimensional consistency and machining allowance need to be managed.
Low Pressure Casting
Low pressure casting can be considered when A360 parts require controlled filling, improved feeding during solidification, pressure-tightness, or better internal quality control. It is suitable for castings with machined sealing areas, enclosed structures, pump-related parts, or higher inspection requirements.
Sand Casting
Sand casting may be used for A360 parts with larger dimensions, lower production volume, prototype needs, replacement requirements, or special structures. This route offers more tooling flexibility, while machining allowance and shrinkage control should be planned carefully.
A360 Casting Characteristics
This alloy is preferred for projects where environmental durability and structural reliability are primary concerns.
- Corrosion resistance: Offers better resistance to environmental exposure compared to high-copper alloys.
- Ductility: Provides favorable elongation properties, allowing for limited deformation under load.
- Dimensional stability: Maintains structural form effectively throughout the solidification process.
- Pressure-tightness potential: Well-suited for components that must contain liquids or gases under pressure.
- Machinability: Compatible with standard post-casting machining processes.
- Controlled defect risk: Balanced composition supports reliable internal quality in appropriate casting processes.
Common Applications of A360 Castings
A360 is commonly used in industries that require corrosion resistance, dimensional stability, sealed structures, or more demanding service conditions.
- Automotive and transportation: gearbox cases, brackets, covers, housings, and sealed aluminum components.
- Pump and fluid equipment: pump housings, valve-related parts, fluid control housings, and pressure-tight covers.
- Electrical and sensor equipment: sensor housings, electrical enclosures, connector housings, and protective covers.
- Industrial machinery: machinery housings, mounting bases, hydraulic components, and equipment covers.
- General engineering products: corrosion-resistant covers, precision housings, brackets, and special aluminum castings.
Surface Finishing for A360 Castings
Finishing selection is determined by corrosion protection, appearance, assembly requirements, and the operating environment.
- Shot blasting: Cleans and unifies the surface appearance of the raw casting.
- Deburring: Removes excess material or sharp edges from the casting process.
- Powder coating: Provides a durable protective or decorative finish.
- Painting: Utilized for color coding or specific environmental protection.
- Machined sealing surfaces and mounting faces: Requires planning relative to casting tolerances and integrity.
- Project-specific surface preparation: Targeted treatments applied to meet unique application environments.
A360 Aluminum Casting Capabilities
At Minhe foundry, we support A360 aluminum casting production based on drawing specifications, material standards, wall thickness, finishing needs, machining allowance, and inspection requirements.
- A360 material support
- Casting process confirmation
- Surface finishing support
- Post-casting machining
- Inspection and quality control
FAQ
What is A360 aluminum alloy equivalent to?
A360 is commonly compared with EN AC-43400 and other aluminum die casting alloys. It may also be compared with A380, but these grades are not exact universal equivalents because their composition limits and performance priorities are different.
What is the difference between A360 and A380 aluminum?
A360 generally offers better corrosion resistance and ductility than A380, while A380 is more commonly selected for balanced castability, machinability, and general die casting performance. A360 is often considered when pressure-tightness, corrosion resistance, or more demanding service conditions are important.
What is the difference between A360 and A413 aluminum?
A360 and A413 are both aluminum casting alloys, but they are used for different performance priorities. A360 is often selected for corrosion resistance, ductility, and pressure-tightness, while A413 is commonly associated with very good fluidity and casting of thin-wall or complex parts. The final choice should follow the required material standard, drawing specification, and application conditions.