The CWM Die Casting

Design and Specification Guide

for Custom AI, Mg, & Zn Components

A Condensed Resource for OEM

Designers and Engineers
Comprehensive guidelines for cost-effective die casting production.
Written for OEM product designers and engineers to aid in optimizing
their part designs and specifications for production in Aluminum,
Magnesium, and Zinc die casting alloys.

Prepared & Updated by

Chicago White Metal Casting, Inc.
Bensenville, Illinois U.S.A.
 Browse CWM’s DC²
Contents (Die Cast Design Center)
Design & Specification Guide Introduction 1
Recyclability & Environmental Practices 1 Over 90 die casting design guides
Anatomy of a Die Set & Die Cast Part 2
& resources are available to OEM
product designers and engineers for
Design & Spec Decision Steps download.

1 Matching Material Properties 3 dc2.cwmdiecast.com

CWM Production & Die Life, by Alloy 3
Material Properties & Nominal Chemistry 4
2 Die Construction 5
Moving Core Slide Options 5
Importance of a Casting’s Parting Line 5
Assuring Longer Die Life 6
3 Minimizing Part Porosity 6
4 Optimizing Part Heat Transfer 6
5 Pre-Planning Post-Cast Machining 7
Standard/Precision Dimensional Tolerances 8
6 Tolerancing Guidelines 9
7 Metal Extension (Flash) Guidelines 10
8 As-Cast Finish Guidelines 10
9 Further Design Assistance 11
10 Magmasoft Die Flow Simulation 11
11 Prototyping 12
3D Printing 12
Machined Prototypes 12
Gravity Cast Prototypes 13
Die Cast Prototypes 13
12 Post-Casting Operations 13
CNC Precision Machining 13
Surface Treatments and Finishing 13
13 CWM Collaborative Engineering 14
Customer-CWM Interaction 14
The Collaborative Engineering Model 14
Magmasoft Software Simulation & Part Design 15
Prototyping for Concurrent Processing 15
Die Design & Construction 15
Sampling 15
Customer Responsibilities 15
14 Design File Transfer Options 16
15 Contract Manufacturing 16

Die Cast Design Center: dc2.cwmdiecast.com

Disclaimer
Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of
the data presented in this Design and Specification
Guide, but Chicago White Metal Casting cannot be
responsible for results obtained with this data. CWM
disclaims any liability arising out of the use of this
material. No warranties, express or implied, are given
in connection with this publication.
Design & Specification Guide Introduction
The guidelines presented in this publication are intended
to aid OEM product design engineers in designing and
specifying parts for cost-effective die casting production—in
aluminum, magnesium, zinc and ZA-8 alloys.

These guidelines were researched and compiled by Chicago

White Metal Casting from over 80 years of industry
experience and the latest design and production resource
data, relying primarily on NADCA Product Specification
Standards for Die Casting. These design-for-die-casting
guidelines are intended to be a concise and easily-referenced
initial source for the key specifications that drive the cost and
performance of components die cast in Al, Mg and Zn alloys.

Many of the Standards and Guidelines presented require

further detailed qualifications, dependent on the specific
design, configuration, and performance requirements of a
proposed part. In such cases, the detailed NADCA Standards
and other sources are referenced. The CWM engineering
department should always be consulted early in the product
concept stage, before irrevocable design-for-manufacturing
decisions are made.

Selected design data, including sections of the NADCA

Product Specification Standards manual, are available to
download from the CWM Die Cast Design Center at dc2.
cwmdiecast.com. The full version of this valuable reference
can also be purchased from CWM at a special discount, using
the special discount order form in the Resource Center’s
Reference Manuals section.

Recyclable Die Castings and

Environmental Practices

All of the metal alloys used by CWM are produced from

recycled raw materials. For example, all of the aluminum parts
are die cast from post-consumer recycled aluminum, which
meets the requirements of high-performance applications.
The die casting alloy recycling stream, illustrated in Figure
1, is based on the existing worldwide infrastructure that has
been operative for over 70 years. This basic flowchart, with
varying amounts of reclaimed alloy going to secondary and
primary producers, applies to the majority of all metal cast by
Chicago White Metal Casting.

The environmental management systems of CWM and their

divisions are ISO 14001 registered. The company was a
charter member of the U.S. EPA’s Environmental Performance
Track Program and has been named by the EPA as a Green
Biz Leader company.

1
 Anatomy of a CWM Die Set and Die Cast Part

Automatic moveable slides Precision shut-offs, Oil heating & cooling Special surface treatment Premium tool steel,
can produce all holes and vacuum systems, as lines are used in is used on all CWM die used to build all
features as-cast. The well as advanced both halves of the cavities to help prevent CWM die cavities,
ejector half of this die runner and overflow die set for precise premature die wear, improve assures maximum die
casting die set is at left. design, help minimize temperature control casting surface finish, life and performance.
any porosity in the during very rapid minimize distortion, etc.
final cast part. casting cycles. The
cover, or stationary,
half is at the right.

Heat sink fins can be die Natural thermal conductivity

cast in place to maximize of a die cast housing,
the surface area and combined with an as-cast heat
achieve optimal heat sink, can eliminate the need
transfer where required. for fans in electronic parts.
transfer where required.

Cosmetic surface finishes Built-in EMI shielding

can be produced as-cast is provided by a die cast
with special attention to housing as a permanent
die design, construction, integral feature of the
and process control. cast component.

Intricate features, cored holes, Thin, rigid walls can be die

and bosses can be cast in place cast to minimize package
– including logotypes or other size – an advantage
designations, and even external matched by no other high-
threads – often eliminating all speed production process.
machining.

2
 1 Matching Material Properties
Die casting alloys are generally several times as strong as and many times more rigid than plastics, and their mechanical properties
compare favorably with powdered iron, brass, and screw-machined steel.

Designing for proper strength in a product depends on two main factors: strength of the material selected and configuration of the part.

Die casting alloys offer a wide range of as-cast material strengths, ranging as high as 54 psi (372 MPa) ultimate tensile. The designer
can usually develop sufficient strength in critical features simply by providing adequate wall thickness. Where additional strength is
required, reinforcing features (such as ribs, flanges and locally thickened sections) can be accurately computed and precisely cast. (See
Guidelines G-6-2-2015 and G-6-3-2015 in NADCA Standards.)

The die casting process allows the product designer freedom to create extremely intricate geometries. CWM offers the designer
material choices in all of the major non-ferrous alloy categories: aluminum, magnesium and zinc.

Aluminum 380 Alloy

Die casting alloy A380 is the most widely used aluminum alloy, offering the best combination of properties and ease of production. It
is specified for nearly every product type where the properties of aluminum are desirable.

Magnesium AZ91D Alloy

Magnesium is the lightest commonly used structural metal. Its use in die cast parts has grown dramatically with no weight penalty.

AZ91D is the most widely used magnesium die casting alloy, offering high purity with excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and castability.

Zinc (ZAMAK) No. 3 Alloy

Zinc No. 3 offers the best combination of mechanical properties, castability, and economics and is the most widely used zinc alloy
in North America. It can produce castings with intricate detail and excellent surface finish at high production rates. Zinc can be cast
thinner than any other die casting alloy.

Table 3a CWM PART PRODUCTION & DIE LIFE, BY ALLOY

Conventional Alloys Aluminum Magnesium Zinc Miniature Zinc
Alloy A380 Mg AZ91D Zn No. 3 Zn 2, 3, 5, 7, ZA-8

Part Size Range .75” x .75” .75” x .75” .75” x .75” Minuscule
to 18” x 18” to 18” x 18” to 18” x 18” to 4” x 4” x 1”

Part Weight Range .5 oz. .25 oz. .5 oz. 1/14 oz. (2g)
to 10 lbs. to 10 lbs. to 8 lbs. to 3/4 lb. (337g)

Machine Tonnage Range 200-800 tons 80-650 tons 80-500 tons 4-Slide Miniature

Vacuum-Assist Availability Yes Yes Yes No

Expected Die Life 1X 3X to 5X Life of Part Life of Part

Table values are approximations. Part sizes shown, in some cases, will require center gating of a part, not always practical with particular part designs.

ZA-8 (Zinc-Aluminum) Alloy

ZA-8, with a nominal aluminum content of 8.4%, has the highest tensile strength and the highest creep strength of any zinc alloy. ZA-8
offers excellent bearing properties, with lighter weight and greater strength than iron and bronze. It is being used by CWM to produce
net-shape die cast parts to replace more costly machined components.

For a discussion of the hot and cold chamber die casting processes, consult the Product Design for Die Casting Manual,
published by NADCA and available from CWM Die Cast Design Center (DC²) at no cost.

See Table 3a for approximate production part size and weight ranges, and machine tonnages, offered by CWM for each alloy category.

3
 MATERIAL PROPERTIES & NOMINAL CHEMISTRY
Table 1 Typical Material Properties: Die Casting Alloys & Selected Plastics
Typical alloy values based on “as-cast” characteristics for separately die cast specimens, not specimens cut from production die
castings. (2015 NADCA Standards. Sec. 3)

Commercial Die Casting Alloys Plastic

Designation
Al 380 Mg Zamak 3 ZA-8 ABS Nylon 6
AZ91D (30% Glass Filled)

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES

Ultimate Tensile
psi x 103 47 34 41 54 8 22
(MPa) (324) (234) (283) (374) (55) (151)

Yield Strength
psi x 103 24 23 32 42 6.5 19
(MPa) (165) (159) (221) (290) (48) (131)

Elongation
% in 2 in. 3 3 10 8 -- 7
Young’s Modulus
psi x 10 10.3 6.5 ≥12.4 12.4 1.0 1.5
6

(MPa x 103) (71.0) (44.8) (≥85.5) (85.5)

Torsional Modulus
psi x 106 3.9 2.4 ≥4.8 4.8 -- --
(MPa x 103) (26.9) (16.5) (≥33.1) (33.1)
Shear Strength
psi x 103 27 20 31 40 -- --
(MPa) (186) (138) (214) (275)
Hardness
(Brinell) 80 63 82 103 -- --
Impact Strength
ft-lb 3 2.7 43 31 -- --
(J) (4) (3.7) (58) (42)

Fatigue Strength Rotary Bend (5 x 10 cycles)

6

psi x 103 20 14 6.9 15 0.15 0.3

(MPa) (138) (97) (47.6) (103)
Compressive Yield Strength 0.1% Offset
psi x 103 n/a 23 60 37
(MPa) n/a (159) (414) (252) -- --

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Density
lb/in3 0.098 0.066 0.240 0.227 0.0376 0.048
(g/cm ) (2.7) (1.8) (6.6) (6.3) (1.0) (1.4)
3

Melting Range
°F 1000-1100 875-1105 718-728 707-759 221 431
(°C) (538-593) (468-596) (381-387) (375-404) (105) (221)

Electrical Conductivity
% IACS 27.0 11.5 27.0 27.7 -- --
Thermal Conductivity
BTU/ft hr °F 55.6 41.8 65.3 66.3 -- --
(W/m°K) (96.2) (72.3) (113.0) (114.7)

Coefficient of Thermal Expansion

1/°F x 10-6 11.8 14 15.2 12.9 -- --
(1/°C x 10 ) (21.2) (25.2) (27.4) (23.3)
-6

Pattern Shrinkage
in/in or mm/mm 0.006 N/A 0.006 0.007 -- --

4
 2 Die Construction
The two die halves shown on page 2 are an example of a single cavity die with both fixed cores and moving core slides, which
produce additional as-cast features in the part. The use of core slides can totally eliminate or significantly reduce secondary machining
requirements.

Multiple-cavity dies can be used to increase production rates substantially, and lower piece costs.

CWM unit dies employ standardized unit die holders into which replaceable die cavity “units” can be inserted. These replaceable units
can be removed from or placed into a unit die holder without removing the unit frame from the die casting machine. CWM unit dies
can significantly reduce die construction costs. They are available in single and double unit holders.

Unit dies have some limitations. They generally can only accommodate the production of smaller-sized parts, and they restrict the use
of moving core slides, water cooling, and gating. Therefore, unit dies are most appropriate for less complex product designs and for
products with lower annual volumes.

Moving Core Slide Options

Fixed cores and core slides (or pulls) can be designed into the die casting die to form selected features, as cast.

Core slides, also called moving die components, can be activated in various ways. Two of the most common are angle pins and hydraulic
cylinders.

The angle pin is a mechanical source of motion that is activated by the opening and closing of the die. Its advantages are that it does
not require hydraulics or limit switches, and is generally more economical to manufacture. Its limitations are that it can be used only
for short slide travel, and there is no control over the cycle of the slide pull.

The hydraulic method of slide motion permits a choice of cycles, allows the placement of slides on any side of the die, and avoids
interference when removing the casting from the die.

The choice is dependent upon factors such as production volume, the size of die, the length of travel of the slide, the size of area being
cored out, and the specific configuration of the part.

CWM will always make the most cost-effective recommendation for the particular core slide to achieve the desired result.

Importance of a Casting’s Parting Line

The parting line is the perimeter of the casting formed
by the separation line along the two halves of the die
casting die. This line affects which half will be the “cover”
die half and which will be the “ejector” half.

This line also influences any tolerances that must be held

in this area of the cast part. Tolerancing standards are
specific to part characteristics at the parting line and are
presented in more detail on page 9 and in the Coordinate
Dimensioning section of the NADCA Standards.

Designation of a parting line on a casting drawing is an

important decision, and is rarely obvious to a designer
not familiar with the die casting production process.
Placement of the parting line must always be the final
decision of the die casting engineer, since its location is
essential for the casting to meet desired specifications.

If there is no cosmetic surface requirement, the casting can be oriented in the two die halves to suit the most favorable overall casting
conditions.

In the case of a part that must have a cosmetic surface finish, the cover die half will generally be used to produce a specified cosmetic
surface. This permits the ejector die half to contain the required ejector pins—which assist in ejecting the part cleanly from the die after
each casting shot— as well as any engraved lettering or identification to be cast into the part.

With parts requiring a cosmetic surface, it is critical that this be discussed in detail during the earliest review meeting. Location
of the casting’s parting line, as well as the gate, overflows, and vents, must not affect any of the part’s designated cosmetic surfaces.

5
 Assuring Longer Die Life
The number of parts that can be produced from a die casting die is dependent on factors such as the quality of the die steel, the alloy
specified, the specific design of part features, the cosmetic surface requirements for the part, and the number of die setups over the
life of the tool.

While CWM utilizes the highest quality premium tool steel in all of its die casting die construction, as well as a proven die surface
treatment to optimize die life, design features that can drastically shorten die life must be taken into consideration.

Sharp internal or external corners should be avoided. Specifying highly cosmetic as-cast surfaces can result in shorter die life and
greater tool maintenance costs.

A comparison of CWM die life by alloy category appears in Table 3a.

Die Casting Die Specification Checklist

CWM makes available a Die Casting Die Specification Checklist which should be consulted during the design of any new
die casting component.

3 Minimizing Part Porosity

The high metal velocities and pressures used to achieve the fine product detail, cosmetic
surfaces, and high cycle rates unique to the die casting process normally result in some
internal porosity, below the “skin” of the die cast part (Fig. 3).

Porosity levels in a cast part can be detected by “X-ray” or “sectioning” procedures.

CWM utilizes real-time automated X-ray imaging to accurately document the presence
of internal porosity, and can provide a recording of all radiographic images for customer
review.

Minimizing porosity begins with early planning in the design of the die cast part and
communication with CWM engineering. If porosity in specific areas will be detrimental
to product function, this should be clearly outlined before die design and construction
begins, since zero porosity is virtually impossible to achieve in a die casting.

Acceptable modifications in part designs can often be suggested that will greatly
reduce potential porosity problems. Once this important step has been taken, CWM
can utilize mold flow simulation, optimized gating and overflow design, die design,
special management of the heating and cooling lines in the die, vacuum systems, and
sophisticated process control and monitoring to limit porosity to non-critical areas of the
part.

When 100% pressure tightness is essential in a die cast part, early CWM consultation
becomes even more important. If the specific configuration of a component dictates
that it cannot be cast pressure-tight, impregnation may be required. (Refer to Pressure
Tightness, Sec. 6, NADCA Standards).

4 Optimizing Part Heat Transfer

Designers of electronic and related devices must allow for thermal energy to be dissipated
efficiently in their housing designs. Heat sinks produced as either die castings or extrusions
have proven most effective in these applications.

The die casting process offers the product engineer the added advantage of great
flexibility in housing and heat transfer design. An optimized heat sink can be incorporated
into virtually any die cast housing design.

Unlike a plastic molded housing and extruded heat sink combination, EMI/RFI shielding is
a built-in function of a thermally optimized die cast housing.

6
All forms of extended surfaces for heat transfer can be die cast: straight fins, “S” shapes and round pins etc. in all diameters, are easily
optimized for width, length and thickness in a die cast design and readily cast in place with the rest of a housing design.

As with any special part feature, consultation with CWM engineering is urged well before final product designs are agreed upon.

5 Pre-Planning Post-Cast Machining

When machining is to be performed on a die casting, a minimum
amount of material should be removed so as to avoid penetrating
the less dense portion below the “skin” (see Fig. 3).

To assure clean-up, an allowance must be provided for both the

machining variables and the casting variables. These allowances
are a function of specified linear dimension tolerances and
parting line tolerances (refer to tolerancing guidelines on next
section).

The best post-casting (secondary) machining results are attained

if the die casting is located from datum points that are in the
same die half as the feature to be machined.

It is important to discuss any and all secondary machining

requirements with CWM prior to die design. If consultation
occurs early in the design of the part itself, CWM engineers
can often minimize the effect of tolerance accumulation and
unnecessary machining. Most importantly, with a combination
of minor part design revisions and special considerations in the
design of the die, higher density areas can be assured in regions
of critical secondary machining.

A complete presentation of machining stock allowances is given in

the NADCA Standards, Sec. 4, Coordinate Dimensioning. Included
are examples for stock allowances, machining allowances, linear
casting allowances, across parting line allowances, maximum
stock, and casting dimensions—based on datum points in either
the same die half or the opposite die half.

7
 Standard & Precision Dimensional Tolerances (Table 3b)
QUICK GUIDE TO COORDINATE DIMENSIONING
Die Casting Alloy: Aluminum Magnesium Zinc/ZA-8

WALL THICKNESSES
Nominal wall thicknesses that can be die cast are heavily dependent on part geometry. With small castings, wall thicknesses of 0.030 in. (.762 mm)
may be attained with an optimized part design and alloy selection.

LINEAR DIMENSION TOLERANCES

Length of Dimension in same die half
Up to 1” (25.4 mm)

Standard Tolerance ±0.010 ±0.010 ±0.010

(±0.25 mm) (±0.25 mm) (±0.25 mm)

Precision Tolerance ±0.002 ±0.002 ±0.002

(±0.05 mm) (±0.05 mm) (±0.05 mm)

for each additional in. >1” (25.4 mm)

Add’l Standard Tolerance ±0.001 ±0.001 ±0.001

(±0.025 mm) (±0.025 mm) (±0.025 mm)

Add’l Precision Tolerance ±0.001 ±0.001 ±0.001

(±0.025 mm) (±0.025 mm) (±0.025 mm)

PARTING LINE TOLERANCES—added to Linear Tolerances

Projected Area of Die Casting: inches² (cm²)—Tolerances are “plus” values only
up to 10 in² (64.5 cm²)

Standard Tolerance +0.0055 +0.0055 +0.0045

(+0.14 mm) (+0.14 mm) (+0.114 mm)

Precision Tolerance +0.0035 +0.0035 +0.003

(+0.089 mm) (+0.089 mm) (+0.076 mm)

for each additional 10 in² (64.5 cm²)

Standard Tolerance +0.0075 +0.0075 +0.0050

(+0.19 mm) (+0.19 mm) (+0.13 mm)

Precision Tolerance +0.0050 +0.0050 +0.0045

(+0.153 mm) (+0.153 mm) (+0.114 mm)

For projected area of die casting over 300 in² (1935.5 cm²), consult CWM.

MOVING DIE COMPONENT TOLERANCES—added to Linear Tolerances

Projected Area of Die Casting Component: inches² (cm²)—Tolerances are “plus” values only
up to 10 in² (64.5 cm²)

Standard Tolerance +0.008 +0.008 +0.006

(+0.20 mm) (+0.20 mm) (+0.15 mm)

Precision Tolerance +0.006 +0.005 +0.005

(+0.152 mm) (+0.127 mm) (+0.127 mm)

11 in² to 20 in² (71.0 cm² to 129.0 cm²)

Standard Tolerance +0.013 +0.013 +0.009

(+0.33 mm) (+0.33 mm) (+0.23 mm)

Precision Tolerance +0.010 +0.007 +0.007

(+0.254 mm) (+0.178 mm) (+0.178 mm)

21 in² to 50 in² (135.5 cm² to 322.6 cm²)

Standard Tolerance +0.019 +0.019 +0.013

(+0.48 mm) (+0.48 mm) (+0.33 mm)

Precision Tolerance +0.014 +0.010 +0.010

(+0.356 mm) (+0.254 mm) (+0.254 mm)

For projected area of a moving die casting component over 100 in² (645.2 cm²), consult CWM.

FLATNESS TOLERANCES: inches (mm)

Maximum Dimension of Die Cast Surface
up to 3.00 in. (76.20 mm)

Standard Tolerance +0.008 +0.008 +0.008

(+0.20 mm) (+0.20 mm) (+0.20 mm)

Precision Tolerance +0.005 +0.005 +0.005

(+0.13 mm) (+0.13 mm) (+0.13 mm)

Add’l tolerance, in. (25.4 mm) for ea. add’l in. (25.4 mm)

Standard Tolerance +0.003 +0.003 +0.003

(+0.08 mm) (+0.08 mm) (+0.08 mm)

Precision Tolerance +0.002 +0.002 +0.002

(+0.05 mm) (+0.05 mm) (+0.05 mm)

Reference: (2015 NADCA Standards, Sec. 4A) Based on CWM recommendations.

8
 6 Tolerancing Guidelines
The extent to which the dimensioning guidelines shown here can be achieved in production
for a given die cast part design is highly dependent on part size and configuration, shrink
factors, and the precise feature in which the dimension is planned.
Caution: Both standard and precision tolerances are shown. The design engineer should
understand that requiring precision dimensions for every feature of a part is not possible in
production. Precision tolerances should only be specified in agreed upon critical areas, since
assuring these tolerances nearly always involves extra precision in die construction and/or special
controls in processing, with additional costs often involved. Consultation with CWM engineering
in the final part design stage is important to cost-effective production and part quality assurance.
Note, in some cases and on specific features, even closer dimensions than those shown can
be held by repeated sampling and re-cutting of the die casting die cavity, in combination with
capability studies. Such procedures will incur added costs and timing.

Standard & Precision Tolerance Qualifications

In the case of Linear Dimension, Parting Line, Moving Die Component, and Flatness Tolerances,
the complete individual standards for each in the NADCA Product Specification Standards for
Die Castings manual should be consulted for proper interpretation and qualifications.

For example, Section 5 of the NADCA manual provides guidelines on “parting line die shift,”
which can result in dimensional variations based on a mismatch between two die halves.
In the case of Flatness Tolerances, the NADCA manual provides design guidelines to aid in
specifying part flatness requirements.

Draft and Cored Holes

Precision tolerances for draft call for a minimum of ¾ degree angle per side on a 5-inch long inside
wall, with outside walls requiring half this amount. More draft is needed for shorter features. See
NADCA Standards for draft equations and details.

Precision tolerances for cored holes, such as cast holes planned for tapping, are provided in NADCA
Standards, in terms of diameter, thread depth, and hole depth requirements.

Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing

A growing number of design engineers are utilizing GD&T markup on their part engineering drawings. When used properly, geometric
dimensioning can help reduce the cost of a die cast part by facilitating functional gaging. Product engineers not already familiar with
GD&T procedures are urged to become so.

An introductory discussion, as applied to die cast part drawings, appears in NADCA Standards, together with more detailed GD&T
references.

Table 4 Guide to Nominal Metal Remaining by Type of Extension (Flash)

Type of Extension & Nominal Amount Remaining After Degating & Trimming

Sharp Corners or other

Large Part Medium Part
Parting Line & Metal Extension geometries not conducive
Thick Gates & Thin Gates &
Seam Line in Cored Holes to flash removed via
Overflows Overflows commercial trim dies

Removed
Within 0.060” Within 0.030” Within 0.015”
After Commercial Trimming* within 0.010” Not Removed
(1.59 mm) (0.76 mm) (0.38 mm)
(0.25 mm)
Extension Remaining

* “Commercially trimmed” does not include hand filing, sanding or polishing to remove sharp edges or loose material. Very small parts can often be
trimmed closer than these standards would indicate. Shave trimming may be possible in cored holes and on certain features (G-6-5-15).

9
 7 Metal Extension (Flash) Guidelines
An extension of metal (or flash) is normally formed on a die casting at
the parting line of the two die halves and where moving die components
operate. A seam of extended metal may also occur where separate die parts
cast a part feature.

The cost of required trimming of any flash can be reduced by preplanning

in the part design stages and is affected by the amount of metal extension
required to be removed and the removal method employed.

Early consultation with CWM can often result in production economies in

this removal step.

Table 4 is the NADCA guide to the types of flash which occur in typical
die castings and the amount of flash material that remains after trimming.
These NADCA guidelines represent normal production practice. Precision
trimming, closer than standard commercial trimming, or complete removal
of all flash may entail additional operations and should be specified only
when requirements justify the additional cost. Generally, it is assumed that
unless specified, parting line flash or gate vestige remaining on the part is
treated separately and is in addition to the print tolerance of a feature.

Note that in some instances, depending upon the part geometry and the
surface finish requirements, the most economic methods of de-gating and
metal extension removal may include a tumbling or vibratory deburring
operation, or hand cleaning.

8 As-Cast Finish Guidelines

The die casting process is uniquely qualified to provide metal parts with
a superior as-cast external surface, important to many component
applications—and essential for consumer product housings and other
decorative parts.

The NADCA surface finishing guidelines presented in Table 5 classify as-cast surface finishes for die castings into a series of five grades
so that the type of cast finish required may be defined early in the product planning stage and well in advance of die casting die design.

These guidelines should be used for general type classification purposes only, not to take the place of specific discussion with CWM
regarding the steps necessary to assure satisfying as-cast product finishing specifications. Such specifications should be agreed upon
with CWM prior to die design to assure cost-effective production. Note that important steps can be taken in the planning of part
design features enabling an optimum surface to be produced in specified areas. For exacting cosmetic finishes, extra steps in die
design, die construction and casting production are required, and additional cost may be involved. Selection of the lowest finishing
grade, commensurate, of course, with the die cast part application, will yield the lowest die and part costs.

A detailed discussion of the factors that relate to success in designing dies for highly cosmetic, thin wall die cast parts, specifically as
they relate to magnesium die castings, appears in an article by Chicago White Metal Casting, titled Designing Dies for Thin Wall, Highly
Cosmetic Mg Die Castings. It is available on request from CWM.

The first four as-cast surface finish classifications listed in Table 5 relate to cosmetic surfaces. Class Five, “Superior Grade,” relates to
the surface specification required over a very selective area for special applications.

10
 9 Further Design Assistance
As emphasized throughout this guide, product
design details—based on sound die casting part
design principles—can greatly influence the
costs of both tooling and production parts.

The Engineering Bulletin, Designing Optimum

Part Shapes, contains introductory information
on developing the optimum product design
configuration for cost-effective die casting
production. This engineering bulletin can be
downloaded from the Die Cast Design Center:
www.cwmdiecast.com/design-center.html.

Design considerations are treated in detail

throughout the NADCA Product Design for Die
Casting manual, with a chapter specifically
covering the following: utilizing die cast
fillets, corners, and ribs to add strength and
aid metal flow, reducing heavy masses in die
cast parts, designing features that simplify
die construction, and redesigning to eliminate
undercuts. Guidelines to the proper design of
die cast fillets, ribs and corners also appear in
the NADCA Standards. Chicago White Metal
Online Store, also in the Design Center, has
Design Guides available for order at a special
discount.

CWM sales engineers and the CWM engineering staff are available to ensure your early design decisions are the correct ones for
product success.

10 Magmasoft® Die Flow Simulation

Advanced metal flow simulation software offers the opportunity to determine the precise
manner in which metal can be expected to flow into the die cavity for a proposed component,
before tooling design or construction. The benefits of revealing specific die flow problems can
now be easily addressed well in advance.

The Magmasoft high-pressure die casting process simulation software system is acknowledged
as the most advanced approach to computerized metal flow trouble-shooting at the preplanning
stage. CWM utilizes this software on all new tool builds.

The initial die casting die cavity design can now be based on the die designer’s experience plus
the results of this invaluable early metal flow data. For more information on the Magmasoft
system, download Tech Brief 23 in the OEM Solutions/Tech Brief section of the CWM Design
Center.

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 11 Prototyping
Because high quality production die casting dies represent a significant capital investment, prototyping of a part prior to production
tool build is a prudent course for a new product design.

Beyond 3D modeling on the computer, a variety of prototyping alternatives are being used, including machining from stock (hog-outs),
gravity casting, or prototype die casting.

All prototyping strategies based on alternative process for eventual die casting production are approximations to the final performance
of a die cast part, and the strengths and limitations of each must be weighed against the designer’s most important prototyping criteria.

3D Printing
The technology of 3D printing enables the production of rapid prototypes in durable
ABS plastic, directly from STL design files. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) parts are
built and bonded, extruded layer by layer, from 3D computer data.

An FDM machine can produce geometrically complex shapes to tolerances of ±0.005

in. (±.127mm).

Because of the strength of the ABS plastic part, it can be evaluated rigorously for form
and fit and used in many functional tests.

Most 3D printed processes have difficulty reproducing very tight toleranced features,
such as sections containing ribs, bosses and holes; CNC machining can be performed
on the strong FDM ABS part to the required critical specifications.

FDM prototypes are generated on every new die casting project to expedite production and shorten total lead times by providing
models in advance to all departments involved; these multiple FDM models help assure that die designs result in first-piece success and
aid in the simultaneous construction of die cast tooling, trim dies, machining fixtures, finishing masks, and any required subassembly
gauges or fixtures. See Collaborative Engineering discussion in Section 13.

CWM’s in-house FDM prototyping capability can work quickly with customer CAD files to expedite die casting projects.

Efforts are underway to develop the ability to 3D print metal parts, and CWM is working on several projects where this approach is
employed, either to produce a prototype part, or to produce tooling or tooling components. Stay tuned… as this is a rapidly developing
technology.

Machined Prototypes
Product designers have long specified accurately machined
prototypes as test models for eventual die casting. Developments
in 3D CAD, CAM and CNC programming have made the machining
alternative increasingly desirable.

Parts can be machined from billet or sheet stock with CNC

machining performed by working directly from customer CAD
files, depending on the type and accuracy of the files. After
transferring a machined prototype to a CAM program interfacing
with CNC workstations, the total lead times of the prototype can
often approximate RP production scheduling.

Machined stock for hog-out prototypes is selected to approximate

the material properties of the eventual die casting alloy. CNC
machining can produce parts to almost identical part weights and
to the specified die casting tolerances with precise details. Under
any handling condition, validation of form and fit is assured and
many functional tests can be performed.

For Al 380 die castings, Al 6061-T6 aluminum plate is generally used for CNC prototypes. For Mg AZ91D die castings, AZ31 Mg plate
is recommended. Zamak 3 stock is available to prototype Zamak No. 3 zinc die castings.

Secondary coatings and finishes can be applied to machined hog-outs to closely approximate the appearance of the proposed die
casting. CWM is one of the few North American custom die casters with in-house hog-out capabilities.
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Gravity Cast Prototypes
Sand casting, investment casting, and rubber plaster-mold castings are some of the gravity cast processes that can be used to
prototype a die casting design. Because of the longer solidification times, alloys specific to those processes, combined with various
heat treatments, are used in order to approximate the properties of a high pressure die casting. Also, compared to high pressure die
casting, these processes usually require thicker walls and larger tolerances, so machine stock often has to be added and more features
will need to be machined than with a die casting. These processes use lower cost tooling than high pressure die casting, but have
much higher piece prices. All of these design, property, and cost tradeoffs have to be considered when evaluating the best prototype
approach.

Die Cast Prototypes

A high pressure die casting prototype die is often the best approach if you want the
same properties, alloy, geometry, etc., that will be in place for production.

Prototype die casting dies can be produced in shorter lead times and at less cost
because they can utilize standardized components (such as an existing die base), and
pre-hardened, uncoated tool steels. The tool will not last as long and the die will not
run as efficiently as a typical production die, but this is a non-issue when you only
need a small quantity of parts (1,000 or less). Design changes can be made faster
and at less cost with a prototype die than would be the case on a custom, hardened/
coated production die. Parts made from the prototype die are generally hand cleaned
of flash, avoiding the lead time and cost of a trim die.

12 Post-Casting Operations

CNC Precision Machining

CNC machining may be employed when the unit machining trade-off is less costly
compared to the investment in complex automated die casting die slide components
to achieve net-shape components.

At the same time, post-casting machining of die castings is a more complex production
process than machining directly from billet stock. A higher level of experience in
CNC pre-planning and machining center fixture design is critical to economical CNC
machining of die cast parts.

While state-of-the-art machining centers and equipment usually provide the greatest
cost advantages, more conventional machining units and cells may prove cost-
effective. As outlined in section 5 of this guide, die caster engineer consultation
and careful preplanning in the product design stage is critical to quality post-casting
machining results. It is essential that all of the specific machining requirements to be
executed after the part has been die cast must be made clear before a design goes
forward: prior to any CAD metal flow simulations, prototyping, or the development of
die design drawings.

Surface Treatments and Finishing

A wide range of proven surface treatment and final
finishing systems are available for die castings in
all alloys, although many die cast parts are used with no surface finishing operations performed
after casting and trimming.

These surface treatment systems can be used to (1) provide a decorative finish, (2) form a protective
barrier against environmental or galvanic corrosion, (3) achieve pressure tightness if interconnected
subsurface porosity cannot be eliminated, or (4) improve a product’s resistance to wear. Non-toxic
coatings are available to meet U.S. & European Union environmental mandates.

13
 Even when a die casting requires no further surface
treatment for decoration, protection or improved
performance, a deburring operation is usually
recommended. This step removes the metal flash and
any burrs, sharp or ragged edges that might remain after
trimming, to facilitate handling and any further finishing
treatment.

The CWM Quick Guide to Surface Finishing for Die Castings,

with a comprehensive ratings chart design guidelines to
optimize final finishing results, is available by PDF download
at the CWM web-site’s OEM DC2 Design Center (dc2.
cwmdiecast.com).

13 CWM Collaborative Engineering

A well-organized custom production resource works closely with its customers and the end product requirements to develop precise
manufacturing protocols and specifications that meet the OEM’s product design intent.

CWM has procedures in place to meet objectives beyond these basic expectations and assure more rapid time to market. By adhering
to the collaborative engineering model described herein, CWM maximizes the customer’s opportunity to reduce unit costs, improve
part quality, and accelerate lead time.

Customer-CWM Interaction
Successful collaborative engineering hinges on the timely and
accurate exchange of information on the part of all persons
responsible for the conception, design, development, evaluation,
production, quality, sales, delivery, servicing, and eventual disposal
of the final product. This requires close coordination of functions
between the customer and CWM.

The Collaborative Engineering Model

To successfully impact unit costs, quality and time to market,
Chicago White Metal has instituted a special structure and specific
tools to implement its collaborative engineering commitment.
This covers every aspect of CWM’s involvement in the design and
production process.

CWM Design Team Checklists

The CWM Design Team assigned to each new die casting production project interacts with their customer team during
initial meetings using a detailed New Project Questionnaire.

Responses during these meetings help assure that CWM will be in a position to raise all critical design-for-manufacturing issues at
the earliest point in the component development cycle. This approach will prevent costly changes that may occur, and quality and
performance improvements can be introduced at little or no cost. These focused customer responses should cover all aspects of
component requirements and quality planning which can be expected to influence the final engineered die cast product.

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Magmasoft® Software Simulation & Part Design
Once the appropriate drawings, specifications, and part model files are exchanged,
CWM can proceed with initial Design for Manufacturing (DFM) evaluation of the
component design followed by Magmasoft® process simulation.

CWM’s use of advanced Magmasoft® metal flow simulations and thermal analysis,
prior to die design, can flag possible casting problems and call for minor product
feature modifications. These simulations will aid in optimizing die gating, runner and
venting configurations in the final die design to assure proper metal flow and die fill.
For more on this simulation software in use, see section 10.

Prototyping for Concurrent Processing

Product design prototypes, produced by Fused Deposition Modeling, are generated
by CWM in-house for every new die casting project.

With individual prototypes simultaneously available to each team member, they

can be used to validate the die tooling design and provide final die casting die build
instructions, aid in accurately drawing up all QA plans, provide trim die construction
details required for the part, as well as information for any gauges, machining fixtures,
and secondary finishing masks that are indicated—all in advance of production
of the first die cast part samples. If CWM is to perform sub-assembly operations,
arrangements for the required assembly cells, fixtures, and other materials or purchased
components will have likewise been made in advance, based on the prototype.

Die Design & Construction

Once the 3D model component design is complete with all of the recommendations
developed during the DFM and Magmasoft® Analysis stages in place, CWM, along
with our tooling vendor, will proceed with the die cast die design and construction.
Though CWM is able to accommodate most changes after design and build have
started, the impact on cost and timing is difficult to predict and must be addressed on
a case-by-case basis. For this reason, Chicago White Metal puts considerable effort
into working with your team so that the design is optimized prior to die design and
construction.

Sampling
Once the die build is complete, the tool is set into the appropriate machine and
sampled. Raw castings are sent to CWM’s Quality Assurance (QA) lab for an initial First
Article Inspection (FAI) report and for cosmetic evaluation. Typically, samples are also
submitted for initial customer approval, but Chicago White Metal will accommodate
individual customer requirements. If there are any issues, a CWM Engineering Project
Manager will coordinate production, tool room, and process teams to find a solution. Once all tooling and process adjustments are made,
sample runs on the specified production die casting machine, together with capability studies, will confirm the process parameters to
be used in full production. The samples will serve as the basis for finalizing control plans and inspection documents.

When customer approval of the FAI report is received, all succeeding production elements will be established and uninterrupted,
continuous piece-part production – through any required CNC machining, finishing and assembly – can begin.

Customer Responsibilities
A tightened production timeline places additional responsibility on the customer
to confirm that all product and design requirements have been signed off on by all
relevant company departments before die design begins. This also ensures that a
timely communications channel is in place between CWM and the key company team
leaders.

15
 14 Design File Transfer Options
The engineering department works with a range of media, software
and hardware for convenient, rapid OEM design file transfer. CWM
can accept customer digital design files for die casting production
evaluation and for die design development in virtually every popular
format. Design files can be transferred by email attachment (sales@
cwmtl.com) or CWM can access the Customer’s Internet server for
secure FTP retrieval or arrange a download via a secure web link.

Contact Sales at 630-595-4424 or email [email protected] for the

latest information.

15 Contract Manufacturing
With most end products, a die cast
part is a component of a larger
assembly, precision-mated to other
custom and stock manufactured parts.

Based on a depth of experience

in subassembly production, CWM
can offer special efficiencies and
complete flexibility in performing this
manufacturing role through its CWM
Contract Manufacturing unit. This
work can range from limited assembly steps to comprehensive, single-source turnkey production of a complex product sub-assembly,
with appropriate testing equipment on-line. Contracts can include the procurement of all non-die cast components from qualified
third-party sources and final packaging of assemblies to your exact specifications.

CWM subassembly projects make use of customized manufacturing cells, specially designed CWM fixtures and experienced materials
management. Well-supervised personnel operate in a clean, 16,000 sq. ft. air conditioned space.

CWM Design & Specification Resources at Your Disposal

To aid OEM product design engineers and specifiers in making the right design for die casting decisions early
in the product concept stage, Chicago White Metal Casting offers a variety of resources for ready access. We
counsel and work with some of the world’s leading companies on their high precision components.

Design Information from the CWM Website by Instant Download

Design Guides, Tech Briefs, Webinars, Case Studies, and Engineering Bulletins mentioned in this guide
are available by instant download from the CWM Website’s DC² (Die Cast Design Center), which includes
reference manuals and other design aids. You can also download a copy of CWM’s capabilities brochure.
Browse the DC² today at:
dc2.cwmdiecast.com.
CWM Sales Engineers
As an arm of our engineering and sales departments, CWM sales engineer representatives are located
throughout the United States. They can answer your initial questions, provide copies of CWM printed literature,
arrange for a “Design for Die Casting” seminar at your company or your visit to CWM’s 125,000 sq. ft. facility.
[email protected]

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Chicago White
Metal Casting, Inc.
Aluminum, Magnesium and Zinc Die Castings
www.cwmdiecast.com
EXCELLENCE IS EXPECTED.
649 IL Route 83, Bensenville, Illinois 60106-1340 U.S.A.
Phone: +1 (630) 595-4424 Fax: +1 (630) 595-9160
Email: [email protected]