Better Casting Material
ZA-12 Alloy Outperforms Traditional Materials
Graphicast ZA-12 zinc alloy castings offer an excellent combination of mechanical properties, surface finish, and low cost. ZA-12’s strength, hardness, and wear properties are better than any other general-purpose nonferrous casting alloy. Because ZA-12 is spark proof, it can be used in hazardous environments, including those underground.
With excellent castability, ZA-12 has a distinctive lustrous appearance, and its low casting temperature promotes long mold life. Zinc metal and alloys are also readily available at relatively stable prices, ensuring the long-term viability of products designed with Graphicast components.
ZA-12 vs. Cast Iron
ZA-12 has approximately the same density as cast iron, but is stronger. It machines three times faster with greatly improved tool life. It also offers much better corrosion resistance.
ZA-12 vs. Aluminum
ZA-12 is harder, stronger, and has better wearing qualities than aluminum, yet it does not require heat treating. ZA-12 machines more easily than aluminum, is more dimensionally stable, and will not warp.
ZA-12 vs. Brass/Bronze
ZA-12 machines as easily as either brass or bronze, yet has superior strength, hardness, and wearing qualities. It can also be coated for corrosive applications/environments.
ZA-12 Physical Properties vs. Other Casting Materials
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| Materials | ZA-12 | Other Casting Materials | |||
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| Properties | Zn/11 Al/.75 Cu | Aluminum 356-T6 | Bronze 85-5-5-5 | Class 30 Iron | |
| Graphicast Process | Sand Cast | Permanent Mold | Sand Cast | ||
| Tensile Strength (psi x 103) | 50 | 33 | 38 | 37 | 34 |
| Yield Strength (0.2% offset, psi x 103) | 31 | 24 | 27 | 17 | - |
| % Elongation (in 2 inches) | 2-3 | 3.5 | 5 | 30 | - |
| Brinell Hardness (500 kg load) | 110-125 | 70 | 80 | 65 | 180-225 |
| Density (lb/in3) | .22 | .10 | .10 | .32 | .26 |
| Young’s Modulus (psi x 106) | 12 | 10.5 | 10.5 | 13.5 | 13 to 16 |
| Fatigue Strength (psi x 103 @ 5 x 108 cycles) | 15 | 8.5 | 13 | 11 | 14 |
| Thermal Expansion (µinch/inch/°F @ 68°-212°F) | 13.4 | 11.9 | 11.9 | 10.1 | 6 |
| Thermal Conductivity (BTU/ft/hr/ft2/°F @ 68°F) | 67 | 87 | 92 | 40 | 26 |
| Electrical Conductivity (% Cu) | 28 | 39 | 41 | 15 | - |
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NOTE: Figures are correct, but are not warranted in any way by Graphicast, Inc.
For structural applications above 200°F, or for detailed fatigue, impact, or
creep strength properties, contact Graphicast.








