Alloy basis

It is an Al-Si-Cu die-casting composition optimized for filling complex thin-wall molds.

Typical applications

Gear housings, electronics housings, power-tool bodies, appliance components and automotive die castings.

Common tempers / conditions

Used mainly in high-pressure die casting rather than wrought-product applications.

Practical application: electronic equipment enclosure

A380 is often considered for die-cast enclosures that need complex ribs, mounting bosses and integrated features. Before specifying it, assess enclosure loads, thermal management, wall thickness, fastener pull-out, corrosion exposure and the desired finish. Thin-wall castability is valuable, but the finished part still requires dimensional and mechanical verification.

380 compared with 413 and A356

380 is widely used as a general-purpose aluminum die-casting alloy. High-silicon 413 is associated with good fluidity for intricate shapes and pressure-tightness applications. A356 is commonly associated with sand and permanent-mold castings and may be specified in heat-treated conditions. The correct choice depends on process, part geometry, required properties and supplier capability.

Manufacturing and quality considerations

• Agree minimum wall thickness and critical casting dimensions with the foundry.
• Identify sealing faces, tapped holes and machined interfaces on the drawing.
• Review porosity and surface finish acceptance requirements.
• Specify chemistry verification, dimensional checks and traceability where required.
• Validate coating and corrosion performance for the actual environment.

Related reading

Compare Cast Aluminum 413, A356 and the casting alloy overview. Consult the applicable casting specification and supplier data for verified properties.

Engineering selection notes

Confirm the exact alloy designation, temper, product form, thickness/diameter, mechanical properties, corrosion environment, joining process, surface treatment and certification. Properties can vary substantially by temper and product form.

QA/QC

For critical service, verify heat/lot traceability, mill certificate, chemical composition, tensile properties, temper, dimensional tolerances and any required NDT or third-party inspection.

Element Folio engineering reference. Verify the latest governing standard and producer data before design or procurement.