Material Name : GD-ALSi10Mg
Material Identification & Standards
GD-ALSi10Mg is a widely used aluminum-based die casting alloy belonging to the aluminum-silicon-magnesium group. It is well known for its excellent combination of castability, strength, and corrosion resistance. Equivalent designations include:
- AA (USA) : A360
- DIN (Germany) : GD-ALSi10Mg (DIN 1725)
- ISO (International) : Al-Si10Mg（ISO 3522）
- JIS (Japan) : ADC3
- BS (UK) : LM25（BS 1490）
- Generic Name : AlSi10Mg
- Common Use Type : Al‑Si‑Mg die casting alloy
- EN (Europe) : EN AC-43000 (EN 1706)
EN 1706 is a standard designation, officially titled:
EN 1706: Aluminium and aluminium alloys — Castings — Chemical composition and mechanical properties.
It is a European Standard (EN) that specifies the chemical composition and mechanical properties of cast aluminum alloys.
Therefore, all European cast aluminum alloys, such as EN AC‑44300, EN AC‑44100, EN AC‑43000, etc., are defined and governed under the framework of EN 1706.
Chemical Composition
- Aluminum (Al): Balance
- Silicon (Si): 9.0%–11.0%
- Magnesium (Mg): 0.2%–0.45%
- Iron (Fe): ≤ 0.55%
- Copper (Cu): ≤ 0.05%
- Manganese (Mn): ≤ 0.55%
- Zinc (Zn): ≤ 0.10%
- Nickel (Ni), Titanium (Ti), and others: ≤ 0.15% (trace elements)
The silicon provides high castability and strength, while magnesium enhances mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
Mechanical & Physical Properties
| Property | Typical Value Range |
| Tensile Strength | 250–320 MPa |
| Yield Strength | 140–180 MPa |
| Elongation | 1.5–3.5% |
| Brinell Hardness | 75–90 HB |
| Density | ~2.65 g/cm³ |
| Melting Temperature | ~570–610°C |
Thermal and Electrical Properties
| Property | Typical Value Range |
| Thermal Conductivity | ~125–138 W/m·K |
| Electrical Conductivity | ~24 % IACS (~13–14 MS/m) |
| Thermal Expansion Coefficient | ~20–21 µm/m·K |
Pros & Cons Summary
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
| Strength | Good strength for lightweight structural parts | Brittle under extreme load or impact |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent resistance to atmospheric and marine environments | — |
| Castability | Good fluidity, ideal for intricate die-cast parts | May require controlled cooling to avoid micro-shrinkage |
| Machinability | Good post-cast machinability | Tool wear may occur under high-speed conditions |
Castability & Corrosion Resistance
GD-ALSi10Mg excels in die casting processes, particularly for thin-walled or detailed parts. High silicon content provides excellent casting fluidity and reduces shrinkage defects. Magnesium further boosts corrosion resistance and mechanical stability.
It maintains corrosion resistance in atmospheric and mild marine environments, but additional surface treatment is recommended for prolonged exposure to aggressive agents.
Key Characteristics
- High silicon content for excellent casting fluidity
- Magnesium-enhanced mechanical properties and corrosion resistance
- Stable for post-machining operations
- Good dimensional stability and surface finish
- Lightweight alloy suitable for high-performance applications
Applications
GD-ALSi10Mg is widely used in sectors where precision, strength, and reliability are critical:
- Automotive: Transmission housings, cylinder heads, chassis components
- Aerospace: Structural housings, non-critical load components
- Electronics: Housings and enclosures requiring EMI shielding
- Industrial: Gearboxes, pump casings, tool bodies
Its performance in dimensional stability and environmental exposure makes it a versatile material across industries.
Conclusion & Recommendation
GD-ALSi10Mg is a technically balanced die casting alloy that offers excellent castability, good mechanical strength, and stable corrosion performance. Its suitability for high-precision parts makes it a preferred alloy for automotive, aerospace, and industrial components.
For engineers and product designers focused on structural integrity, lightweight design, and reliable production, GD-ALSi10Mg remains a highly recommended choice within the aluminum-silicon-magnesium family.