Alloy basis

High silicon content improves casting behavior and enables intricate thin-wall components.

Typical applications

Pump components, hydraulic housings, electrical enclosures and pressure-tight die castings.

Common tempers / conditions

Selected primarily for die-castability and leak-tightness rather than maximum strength.

Selection example: a pump housing

For a die-cast pump housing, define fluid chemistry, pressure, temperature, cyclic loading and critical sealing surfaces before selecting the alloy. The casting supplier should assess cavity filling, potential porosity and machining allowances. Agree on leak-test acceptance criteria where pressure tightness is required. An alloy designation alone cannot establish fitness for service.

Comparison with other casting alloys

413 is associated with high fluidity for intricate die-cast shapes. Alloy 380 is commonly used as a general-purpose die-casting alloy. A356 is often used for sand and permanent-mold casting, with heat-treatment options depending on the specification. These alloys are not automatically interchangeable: casting method, section thickness, mechanical requirements and inspection plans differ.

Practical inspection checklist

Confirm the applicable product specification, chemical analysis, dimensional requirements, surface condition, traceability and any specified leak testing or non-destructive examination. Inspect sealing faces and machined interfaces carefully. For demanding service, evaluate casting defects against project-specific acceptance criteria.

Further reading

Compare Cast Aluminum 380, Cast Aluminum A356 and the Cast Aluminum Alloys Guide. Check current manufacturer data and applicable casting standards for design values.

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.