Cast Plate Aluminum Alloy is Suitable for Production Mold and Dies

Alimex ACP7 from Alimex Precision in Aluminum Inc. is a cast aluminum alloy from the 7000 series that is quickly gaining popularity among North American moldmakers. In the past, aluminum tooling was only used for testing and building prototypes, typically producing 50 to 1,000 parts. Today, especially with the 7000 series aluminum, it is used in production dies for 50,000 to 100,000+ shots.

Alimex ACP7 offers moldmakers a product that is highly beneficial for applications that require high mechanical properties, material stability and excellent machinability. The alloy’s high hardness properties, typically around 121 HB, also enable good polishing quality and wear resistance. The mechanical properties of ACP7 are similar to those of a 7075 alloy, the company notes, but ACP7 has more consistent properties throughout the material, especially in thicker gauges used for die-making. ACP7 is available in thicknesses up to a max of 19.5", and is fully stress relieved for optimal machining qualities.

According to the company, ACP7 is more cost-efficient and readily available than similar 7000 series rolled products used in the market. ACP7 is also weldable, and as the mill producer, Alimex has MIG and TIG welding guidelines available. Coatings for aluminum molds, particularly in injection molding or die-casting, are often essential to enhance mold durability, reduce friction and improve the release of molded parts. ACP7 also works well with many of these coatings.

Alimex sells ACP7 to moldmakers through its metal distribution partner network. The company is also directly available for product technical advice and can help find suitable distributors for customers at any time.