Vacuum die casting is a valuable manufacturing process used to produce high volumes of complex, high-quality metal components. This article will provide an in-depth look at vacuum die casting, including its definition, history, how it works, applications, advantages, and more.

Highlight

• What Is Vacuum Die Casting?
• History of Vacuum Die Casting
• How Vacuum Die Casting Works
• Metals Used in Vacuum Die Casting
• Applications of Vacuum Die Casting
• Advantages of Vacuum Die Casting

What Is Vacuum Die Casting?

• A manufacturing process where air is evacuated from a metal die before injecting molten metal
• Also known as gas-free die casting
• Similar to traditional die casting but with reduced porosity in finished products
• Variants like HVDC and UHVDC refer to intensity of internal vacuum

History of Vacuum Die Casting

• Developed in Japan in 1980s to improve traditional die casting
• Quickly spread around the world as benefits became clear
• Meant to reduce defects caused by trapped air in dies
• Process further developed in Europe over the years
• Now includes variants like UHVDC to further limit porosity

How Vacuum Die Casting Works

• Metal alloy melted and transferred to shot chamber
• Vacuum created in die cavity using high-capacity pump
• Molten metal injected under high pressure into evacuated die
• Vacuum helps metal fill all fine details and distribute evenly
• Metal solidifies and cools before finished casting is ejected

Metals Used in Vacuum Die Casting

• Mostly moderate-melting alloys like aluminum, magnesium, zinc
• Not suitable for high-melting point alloys like steel or nickel alloys
• Magnesium alloys commonly used for structural components
• Zinc alloys provide wide range of properties

Applications of Vacuum Die Casting

1. Mass production of auto parts like engine and transmission components

2. Aerospace industry where accuracy and properties are critical

3. Any high-volume assembly line manufacturing identical parts

4. Used where welded or heat-treated parts are needed

Advantages of Vacuum Die Casting

Very low porosity allows thinner walls and consistent properties. Improved dimensional accuracy and surface finishes. Allows heat treating and welding without defects. Reliable production of complex, high-strength components. With its exceptional finishes, material consistency, and design flexibility, it's easy to see why vacuum die casting is popular in high-volume manufacturing. Contact a manufacturing expert to see how vacuum die casting can improve your production process.