356 Aluminum Alloy

The 356 alloy is an aluminum alloy widely used in the casting industry due to its excellent castability, good mechanical properties, and high corrosion resistance. It is particularly favored for applications where a good combination of strength and ductility is required.

356 Alloy is widely used for complex shapes in aerospace, automotive, and general engineering applications. Some examples of common uses are: 

Automotive Industry

• Engine Components: Such as cylinder heads, intake manifolds, and pistons, where strength and thermal resistance are crucial.
• Transmission Cases: Require durability and resistance to wear.
• Suspension Parts: Including control arms and brackets, which need to be strong and lightweight.

Aerospace Industry

• Aircraft Components: Such as airframe parts and engine housings, where a good strength-to-weight ratio is essential.
• Landing Gear Parts: Require high strength and impact resistance.

Industrial Applications

• Machinery Parts: Such as pump housings and gear cases, which need to be robust and durable.
• Tooling and Fixtures: Used in manufacturing processes due to their machinability and strength.

Marine Industry

• Propellers and Housings: Require high corrosion resistance and strength to withstand harsh marine environments.
• Engine Parts: Such as housings and brackets, which need to be resistant to corrosion and mechanical stress.

Medical Industry

• Medical Equipment: Xray equipment, infant warmers, birthing beds, operating room lighting, large bases, medical devices 

Consumer Goods

• Sporting Equipment: Such as bicycle frames and components, which benefit from the alloy’s light weight and strength.
• Appliances: Parts that require a good balance of strength and corrosion resistance.

Aluminum with 6.5-7.5% silicon, 0.25-0.45% magnesium, and small amounts of copper, iron, manganese, and zinc.

Excellent castability, good corrosion resistance, and good mechanical properties. It can be heat-treated to enhance strength.