A380 is an aluminum-silicon-copper casting alloy known for good fluidity, dimensional stability, machinability, and balanced casting performance. It is commonly used in aluminum die casting applications and may also be considered for project-specific aluminum casting requirements when the drawing or material specification calls for this alloy.
For casting projects, the final material choice should be checked together with the intended manufacturing process, wall thickness, tolerance requirements, surface requirements, machining allowance, and inspection conditions.
What Is A380 Aluminum Alloy?
A380 is an aluminum-silicon-copper alloy frequently selected for projects where a balance of fluidity, strength, and dimensional stability is required. It is widely recognized in the industry for its ability to produce complex, thin-walled components with consistent results.
A380 Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of A380 is formulated to provide excellent filling characteristics and mechanical properties suitable for various engineering components.
| Element | Reference range |
| Si | 7.5–9.5 % |
| Cu | 3.0–4.0 % |
| Fe | ≤ 1.3 % |
| Zn | ≤ 3.0 % |
| Mn | ≤ 0.5 % |
| Ni | ≤ 0.5 % |
| Mg | ≤ 0.1 % |
| Sn | ≤ 0.35 % |
| Al | Balance |
Silicon (Si) supports the alloy’s fluidity during the casting process, while Copper (Cu) contributes to increased hardness and strength. Impurity elements should be controlled strictly according to the required standard, project specifications, and certified material reports to maintain material integrity.
A380 Mechanical Properties
Mechanical performance in A380 components depends on specific casting conditions, wall thickness, cooling rates, and relevant inspection requirements.
| Property | Reference value |
| Tensile strength | 315–330 MPa |
| Yield strength | 160–180 MPa |
| Elongation | 2–3 % |
| Hardness | 80–90 HB |
These values serve as reference data and should not be interpreted as guaranteed results for every production batch. Actual performance is verified through testing based on conditions unique to the component.
A380 Physical and Thermal Properties
These properties are essential when calculating the mass of a component and its performance within a thermal environment.
| Property | Reference value |
| Density | about 2.71–2.75 g/cm³ |
| Melting range | about 540–595 °C |
Casting Processes for A380
A380 can be considered for different aluminum casting projects according to the drawing requirement, part structure, wall thickness, tolerance needs, production volume, and quality requirements. At Minhe foundry, we support process review for gravity casting, low pressure casting, and sand casting projects when A380 is specified or requested.
Gravity Casting
In gravity casting projects, A380 requires attention to section thickness, mold design, feeding conditions, and dimensional stability. This process may be considered for suitable part structures where the casting layout can support proper filling and solidification.
Low Pressure Casting
In low pressure casting projects, the focus is on stable mold filling, controlled feeding, pressure-tightness, and defect control. A380 should be checked against wall thickness, solidification behavior, and inspection requirements before production.
Sand Casting
In sand casting projects, A380 should be checked against part size, tooling method, machining allowance, shrinkage control, and final performance requirements. This process is more project-dependent and should follow the drawing or customer material specification.
A380 Casting Characteristics
This alloy is preferred for projects where material flow and geometric complexity are priorities.
- Castability: Exceptional fluidity allows for filling thin walls and complex internal features.
- Dimensional stability: Maintains its shape well during and after the solidification process.
- Mechanical strength: Offers a favorable combination of hardness and tensile strength for structural applications.
- Machining adaptability: Compatible with post-casting precision machining when allowances are properly planned.
- Surface finishing potential: Provides a smooth surface suitable for various decorative or protective coatings.
Common Applications of A380 Castings
A380 is utilized across several sectors where material efficiency and geometric precision are required.
- Automotive and transportation components: Transmission housings, engine brackets, and interior structural frames.
- Industrial equipment parts: Gearbox housings, mounting brackets, and specialized machinery frames.
- Pump and fluid equipment: Manifold housings and fluid control components.
- Motor and power-related castings: Electrical enclosures, cooling components, and motor-related housings.
- General engineering castings: Support structures, equipment covers, and various load-bearing components.
Surface Finishing for A380 Castings
Finishing selection is determined by appearance, protection needs, and assembly requirements.
- Shot blasting: Cleans and unifies the surface appearance of the raw casting.
- 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.
A380 Aluminum Casting Capabilities
At Minhe foundry, we support A380 casting production through careful preparation based on drawing specifications, material standards, wall thickness, and finishing needs. Our team analyzes technical details before production to ensure feasibility.
- A380 casting production: Assessment and support for casting projects tailored to project specifications.
- Casting process analysis: Professional study of part geometry to ensure the correct manufacturing route.
- Surface finishing support: Assistance with finishing techniques suitable for the application.
- Post-casting machining: Support for machining needs where precision surfaces or mounting features are required.
- Inspection and quality control: Systematic planning for material confirmation, dimensional validation, and defect management.
FAQ
What is A380 aluminum alloy equivalent to?
A380 is often compared with ADC12, EN AC-46000, and other aluminum die casting alloys. However, these materials should not be treated as exact universal equivalents. Material selection should be confirmed according to the required standard, chemical composition limits, mechanical property requirements, casting process, and certified material report.
What is the difference between A380 and ADC12?
A380 and ADC12 are both aluminum casting alloys commonly used for die casting applications, but they belong to different standard systems. A380 is widely used in North American specifications, while ADC12 is common in Japanese and Asian manufacturing contexts. Their application range may overlap, but composition limits, material standards, casting process, and project requirements should be checked before substitution.
What is the difference between A380 and A360 aluminum?
A380 and A360 are both aluminum casting alloys used in die casting applications, but they are selected for different priorities. A380 is commonly used because of its fluidity, machinability, and balanced casting performance. A360 generally offers better corrosion resistance and ductility, but its suitability depends on the required performance, casting process, and production conditions. Final selection should follow the drawing standard and project requirements.