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What Is A356 Aluminum?
A356 aluminum is a high-performance aluminum-silicon-magnesium casting alloy widely used in structural and high-strength applications. It is closely related to 356 aluminum and shares many of the same base elements and casting advantages, but A356 features tighter chemistry controls and lower iron content. These differences improve ductility and overall mechanical performance, making it especially popular in automotive, aerospace, and other demanding industries where strength-to-weight ratio and heat-treat response are critical.
A356 Aluminum Common Uses
A356 is frequently used in applications where strength, durability, and weight reduction are critical:
- Automotive Parts: Wheels, suspension components, control arms, knuckles, and structural brackets
- Aerospace Components: Structural castings requiring strength and lightweight performance
- Marine Applications: Corrosion-resistant components exposed to moisture
- Industrial Machinery: Structural frames, housings, and load-bearing parts
- Recreational & Power Sports: ATV, motorcycle, and performance vehicle components
A356 Aluminum Composition
Primarily aluminum with approximately:
- 6.5–7.5% silicon
- 0.25–0.45% magnesium
- Small amounts of iron, copper, manganese, zinc, and titanium
A356 contains little to no copper, which improves corrosion resistance compared to alloys like 319.
A356 Aluminum Properties
356 vs. A356 Aluminum
At Precision Enterprises, we pour both 356 and A356 aluminum alloys regularly. Both are proven, high-performance aluminum-silicon-magnesium alloys that cast well and machine beautifully…especially when paired with our in-house CNC machining and engineering review.
The difference comes down to chemistry control and performance requirements. Read more on our blog about the differences.
Learn about these other aluminum alloys:
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