Zinc alloy is widely used in the die-casting industry due to its excellent comprehensive performance. The following are the specific manifestations of zinc alloys in terms of strength, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance:

1. Strength

Zinc alloys have higher strength, especially compared to light alloys such as aluminum and magnesium. The strength of different types of zinc alloys varies:

Zamak series:

Zamak 2 and Zamak 5 have higher strength, and their tensile strength is usually between; 300-350 MPa  Between them

The tensile strength of Zamak 3 is approximately; 280-320 MPa, suitable for most conventional applications

Zamak 7 has slightly lower strength but better fluidity, making it suitable for thin-walled parts

ZA series:

ZA-8, ZA-12, and ZA-27 have higher strength, especially ZA-27, which has a tensile strength of up to; 400-440 MPa, close to the strength of some aluminum alloys

Summary:

The strength of zinc alloy is sufficient to meet the needs of most industrial applications, especially for small and medium-sized parts

If higher strength is required, you can choose ZA series or Zamak 5

2. Corrosion resistance

Zinc alloys have good corrosion resistance, especially in dry or neutral environments. The following are specific manifestations:

Natural corrosion:

Zinc alloy forms a dense oxide film (ZnO) in air, which can prevent further oxidation and therefore has better corrosion resistance in dry environments

In humid environments, the corrosion resistance of zinc alloys may decrease, but they are still superior to many other metals

Electrochemical corrosion:

Zinc alloys may undergo electrochemical corrosion when in contact with other metals such as steel and copper. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid direct contact with metals with large potential differences during design

Surface treatment:

The corrosion resistance of zinc alloys can be significantly improved through surface treatments such as electroplating, spraying, and passivation. For example, chrome plating, nickel plating, or coating can be used for parts in outdoor or highly corrosive environments

Summary:

Zinc alloy has good corrosion resistance, but in humid or corrosive environments, surface treatment is recommended to extend its service life

3. Wear resistance

Zinc alloy has moderate wear resistance and is suitable for applications under general friction conditions. The following are specific manifestations:

Zamak series:

Zamak 2 and Zamak 5 are suitable for parts with moderate friction conditions due to their high copper content and good wear resistance

The wear resistance of Zamak 3 is slightly lower, but it can be improved through surface treatment such as hard oxidation or coating

ZA series:

The wear resistance of the ZA series is better than that of the Zamak series, especially the ZA-27, which is suitable for parts with high friction conditions, such as bearings, gears, etc

Surface treatment:

The wear resistance of zinc alloys can be significantly improved through surface hardening treatment (such as nitriding, carburizing) or coating (such as DLC coating)

Summary:

The wear resistance of zinc alloy is suitable for most conventional applications, but under high friction conditions, it is recommended to choose ZA series or undergo surface treatment

Application suggestions

General parts: Zamak 3 is the most commonly used choice, with high cost-effectiveness and suitable for most applications

High strength parts: Zamak 5 or ZA series are more suitable

High wear resistant parts: Choose ZA-8 or ZA-27, or undergo surface hardening treatment

High corrosion resistant parts: Choose Zamak 7 or undergo surface treatment (such as electroplating or spraying)

By selecting appropriate alloy types and surface treatments, zinc alloys can meet the needs of most industrial applications. If you have specific application scenarios, you can further discuss the most suitable materials and processes