FAQs About Diecasting

Diecasting is a very popular process if you make a lot of model cars. Understanding what diecasting is and what metals work best can help you make better decisions. You get a better understanding of the process when you know the answers to some important questions.

Q: What is rapid pressure diecasting?

A: This is a process by which aluminum, zinc or magnesium are molded into specific shapes in hardened pressure molds.

Q: Why is aluminum diecasting the most common non-ferrous metal?

A: Aluminum is light, strong and corrosion resistant. It is also environmentally friendly which makes it a sustainable alternative. Aluminum is 95 percent recycled materials. It is also very versatile, includes several finishes and is very cost effective.

Q: What types of metals are used for diecasting?

A: Typically diecasting is done with non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, zinc, lead, tin, pewter, magnesium and copper.

Q: What is a cold chamber process?

A: A cold chamber process is one of the two types of diecasting. In this process, the molten metal is put into a cold chamber. This process works better for metals like aluminum and copper that mesh more easily with iron when the temperatures are higher.

Q: What is a hot chamber process?

A: In this process, the die cavity is actually connected to the pressure chamber and the immersion of the molten metal is permanent. It allows a different charge of molten metal into the cavity. This is a faster process that the cold chamber. It works well with metals that have a very low melting point like tin, zinc and lead.