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Our Die Casting Services

A process similar to injection molding, pressure die casting is a metal casting process in which molten metal is forced into a mold cavity to create metal parts. At WJ Prototypes, we use certified machines and pressure casting dies to form your designs from molten metal — typically zinc, copper, aluminum, magnesium, lead, pewter or other tin-based alloys. Our pressure die casting process is effective and very reliable, and can result in significant cost savings. Because of our flexibility, we can accommodate any project needs you may have – from small batches of 50 to as many as 1,000 pieces.

Hot-Chamber Die Casting
Hot-Chamber Die Casting

Hot-chamber die casting is a metal casting process specifically designed for low-melting-point alloys like zinc, tin, lead, and magnesium. This process is the most common and faster method than cold-chamber die casting. In this method, the metal is melted within the casting machine, in a furnace connected to the machine. A hydraulic system injects molten metal into the die under high pressure. This process is efficient for producing intricate shapes with high-quality materials that have lower melting points. Still, it is not suitable for alloys with higher melting points due to the risk of damaging the pump that injects the molten metal.

Cold-Chamber Die Casting
Cold-Chamber Die Casting

Cold-chamber die casting involves introducing molten metal at room temperature into a separate shot chamber using a ladle or pouring method. The shot chamber contains a ram that vertically forces the molten metal into a steel mold (die) with movable and fixed sections. The ram applies pressure ranging from 2,000 to 20,000 PSI to propel the molten metal into the die. The pressure is maintained until the metal cools and solidifies, after which the finished product is ejected from the die.

Advantages and Drawbacks of Die Casting

Advantages

Fast cycle times.
Is suitable for producing complex parts.
Produces parts with high dimensional accuracy.
Produces parts with a smooth surface finish, which lessens the need for post-processing. Offers repeatable, accurate results with efficient production.

Advantages

Drawbacks

The cost of equipment and dies can be very expensive.
Is typically unsuitable for ferrous metals or metals with a high melting point.
Designing and tooling new dies is a complex process that can take long before a production run starts.

Drawbacks

Die Casting Materials

Aluminum Alloys
Aluminum Alloys
Zinc Alloys
Zinc Alloys
Magnesium Alloys
Magnesium Alloys
Aluminum Alloys

Aluminum Alloys

Aluminum alloys are widely employed in die casting due to their unique properties. Notable alloys such as 380, 360, 390, and 413 exhibit high operating temperatures, outstanding corrosion resistance, low density, excellent strength, and good thermal conductivity. Additionally, aluminum alloys offer good stiffness, a favorable strength-to-weight ratio, EMI and RFI shielding properties, and recyclability. They can also withstand high temperatures and retain dimensional stability with thin walls.

Zinc Alloys

Zinc Alloys

Zinc alloys, including Zamak #2, #3, #5, #7, ZA8, and ZA27, offer a balance of strength, toughness, firmness, and cost-effectiveness. These alloys are known for their improved castability, shortened cycle time, and extended die life. The mechanical qualities of zinc alloys rival and exceed other common die-casting materials such as aluminum, magnesium, and bronze. Their exceptional casting fluidity contributes to thin-wall castability, resulting in smaller, lighter, cost-effective components.

Magnesium Alloys

Magnesium Alloys

Magnesium, particularly the AZ91D alloy, stands out for its toughness, durability, lightweight nature, and good castability. With a weight 75% lighter than steel and 33% lighter than aluminum without compromising strength, magnesium alloys are preferred for applications requiring complex casting with tight tolerances. The material’s excellent corrosion resistance further enhances its appeal.

Surface Finish Options for Die Casting

Post Processing For SLA
Post Processing For SLA
Post Processing For SLA
Post Processing For SLA

Surface finishes can serve either a functional or aesthetic purpose. Surface finishes that serve both purposes are deemed cosmetic finishes, and are used for cosmetic parts. Producing cosmetic parts requires additional measures to minimize defects such as hang marks and scratches from tools.

Types
Details

Clear Coat

Clear cosmetic finish that can be applied to ABS-Like Translucent/Clear (WaterShed XC 11122) and PC-Like Translucent/Clear (Accura 60) materials.

Painting

After smoothing the part with sanding and polishing, parts can be painted with automotive-grade paint. Provide a pantone color with your quote request. We also offer soft-touch painting.

Plating

Electroless nickel plating can be used to achieve parts that are similar to cast aluminum or magnesium.

Dyeing

Dyeing is another method for adding color to 3D prints. This is faster option with a limited color selection, so is a more cost-effective choice than painting.

Decaling

Decaling can be used to add a logo or other graphics to boost cosmetics or function.

Polishing

We can polish parts to a mirror-like finish. If this is a requirement, we ask that you provide either a drawing or image that indicates your finish expectations.

Heat Treatment

Harden and strengthen metal 3D prints with multiple heat treatment options: NADCAP heat treatment, hot isostatic pressing (HIP), solution annealing, and aging.

How to Work With Us

01

Request A Quote

Request A Quote

02

Confirm Specifications

Design Review

03

Manufacturing Begins

Manufacturing Begins

04

Parts Are Shipped

Parts Are Shipped

Request A Quote

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Testimonials / Satisfied Customers

D

Dorothy

Buyer at Leading Energy company

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WJ Prototypes is Great!

“We’re glad we recently added WJ Prototypes to our AVL. You guys are always quick and friendly and all the Machining jobs we have sent have gone smoothly!”

T

Thomas

Engineer at Robotics Company

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Our No.1 source for CNC parts

“We had a time sensitive Sheet Metal enclosure with fairly strict cosmetic requirements. WJ Prototypes came through for us and the parts looked great. The full build turned some heads at our Trade Show!”

M

Marc

Buyer at Electric Car Company

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Great prices, lead times, and quality of work

“You guys are one of the easiest job shops I’ve worked with the last 10 years. You are responsive and competitive. We’ve appreciated the awesome work!”

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Sheet Metal Fabrication
Sheet Metal Fabrication
SLA 3D printing
SLA 3D printing
CNC Machining
CNC Machining