Die Cast

Die Cast

Die Cast Products Introduction

Die-casting, by definition, is a process in which molten metal is injected into metallic molds under pressure to form objects. The molds, which are generally made of steel and referred to as “dies”, can be designed to create very detailed parts with little or no post-machining required after production. Die-casting is analogous in many ways to plastic injection molding. Dies can be reused multiple times because the temperatures of the molten metal are not high enough to affect the steel die. Die-cast parts are generally lightweight, and for this reason are often used in aircraft and automobile applications.

History of the Die-Casting Process

Die-casting by pouring molten metal into a die, also known as the gravity pressure method, is a manufacturing method that has been used for hundreds of years. The more modern method of pressure injection die casting was patented in the mid-1800’s to create lead printer’s type. The use of die-casting as a manufacturing technique exploded in the early 1900’s, particularly when zinc and aluminum alloys became more readily available. Today, die-casting is a process used for a wide range of products and applications.

Materials Used in Die-Casting

In order to preserve the integrity of the die, and allow it to be used for many castings, only alloys with relatively low melting temperatures can be used in the die casting process. Historically, lead and tin were the primary materials for die-cast parts, since they could easily be melted using conventional processes. Today, the majority of die-cast parts are created from aluminum or zinc alloys, but other metals such as magnesium or copper can be used. Each alloy delivers its own benefits, and therefore the product requirements drive the material choice. Aluminum can be found in aircraft and automobile parts, while copper may be used for parts that must conduct electricity.

Description of the Die-Casting Process

Before casting is performed, the mold is assembled. A mold can consist of two or more parts, depending on the complexity of the part being fabricated. Die-casting machines are categorized as either cold chamber machines or hot chamber machines. In a cold chamber machine, the molten metal is poured into a “cold” cylinder that is attached to the die. A hydraulic piston seals the cylinder and forces the metal into the die. In a hot chamber machine, the injection system sits in a bath of molten metal. A plunger is raised to pull molten metal into the injection chamber, and then pushed to inject the molten metal into the die. The mechanism of a hot chamber machine is much like a pneumatic bicycle pump, which pulls air in from around the pump and injects it into a tire through the tube and fitting.

After the casting process, the part may have flash, or thin metal around the part where the two halves of the die come together, around it. The flash is removed during post-machining processes. Some die-cast parts are plated or painted after manufacture for appearance, but the surface of die-cast parts are generally very smooth and hold fine detail.

Examples of Die-Cast Components

Many plumbing fixtures, such as bathtub spouts, are manufactured from zinc alloys using a die-casting process and then plated with a chrome coating. Lightweight aircraft components can be die-cast from aluminum alloys. Other examples include heat sinks with complex shapes and large surface areas for electronic components, lightweight aluminum automobile parts, and lighting fixtures. Die-cast parts require very little post-manufacturing machining, saving time and labor costs in the manufacturing process.

Die-casting is a manufacturing process used for a variety of applications, including toys. In the Napoleonic era, gravity pressure methods were used to cast lead military figures. Die-cast vehicles have been available nearly as long as the vehicles themselves have existed. Early die cast manufacturers existing at the turn of the 20th century include Meccano in the United Kingdom and Dowst Brothers in the United States. Companies such as Ertl have been producing die-cast farm vehicles since 1945.

About the Author

Small business owner who sold and is now semi retired, spending time with my wife and spare time at my computer chasing another dream. I became interested in Die Cast Products as a Kid and then during my working career I was not able to pursuit so now that I have semi retired and have time I am again chasing one of my passions.

Flamed Die-Cast Mirror $52.95 Arlen Ness Flamed Die-Cast Mirror Stylish designs for your custom applications Chrome plated die-cast construction Features convex glass Hardware for H-D and Metric models included

Die-Cast Replacement Mirror $24.95 Drag Specialties Die-Cast Replacement Mirror Standard, Low Rider, or Long stem die-cast chromed mirrors Fits into stock clutch or brake housing for direct replacement Fully adjustable with lightly tinted 3-1/2? x 5? glass lenses Fits right or left side Sold individually

Conair / DIE-CAST 600WATTA DELUXEBLENDER / SPB-600 $79.72 Conair - DIE-CAST 600WATTA DELUXEBLENDER - SPB-600

Elation Opti 30 Die Cast PAR Can $39.99 Elation Opti 30 Die Cast PAR Can

Musician's Gear Die-Cast Mic Stand Black $15.99 Musician's Gear Die-Cast Mic Stand Black

Elation Opti 30 Die Cast Par Can $39.99 Elation Opti 30 Die Cast PAR Can

Chuggington: Chug-A-Sonic (Includes Die-Cast Toy) $7.99 Chuggington: Chug-A-Sonic (Includes Die-Cast Toy)

Die-Cast OEM Clutch Lever $10 Sunline Die-Cast OEM Clutch Lever Die-Cast OEM Clutch Levers from Sunline Made to the highest quality standards from aircraft grade A-360 aluminum through pressure die-cast construction Designed to fit your stock perches Made to exceed OEM specifications

Die-Cast Maltese Mirror $29.99 Emgo Die-Cast Maltese Mirror Emgo offers a wide variety of economical, universal mirrors for most motorcycles. Maltese measures 4" x 4" Chromed split stem Sold as each Fits H-D models Adapter required for Metric Cruiser applications (sold separately)

Die Cast Metal Car Assortment Pkg/25 $7.99 Race into some fun with this Die Cast Metal Car Assortment. Die cast metal cars come in an assortment of colors.

Shopzeus USA zeusd1TOYC2169114 Die Cast Aircraft 24 PKG $29.87 Die Cast Airplanes and Jets(24/PKG)

Die Cast Car Collection $19.95 Cars, Cars, Cars! Supercool Die-Cast Car Collection will keep young enthusiasts happily occupied for hours! This awesome, instant collection of 15 cars features a variety of styles, from sporty to classic, plus police, fire and ambulance. When playtime's over, the 1:64 scale cars store perfectly in our Big Rig Car Carrier Case Y920200, sold separately. Ages 3+.

Die-Cast Mirror $24.99 Emgo Die-Cast Mirror Measures 3-5/8" x 5" Emgo offers a wide variety of economical, universal mirrors for most motorcycles Styles available in many shapes and sizes to fit threaded mounts, clamp-on the handlebars or attach to fairings Choose your favorite design from the photos and match the method of attachment for your bike Sold each

Chuggington Die-Cast Wilson $6.99 Chuggington Wilson Die-Cast. Wilson is a lively multi-function engine with oodles of enthusiasm and confidence. His eagerness isn't always matched by his ability to pay attention so he has some learning to do about listening and following instructions. He's a bit of a scatterbrain and as such often finds himself in deep water. Wilson sometimes gets frustrated at something new or unfamiliar but he's always curious and ready to learn. His catchphrases include "It's training time" and "Let's ride the rails!"

5-3/4 Die-Cast Headlight Assembly $139.95 Drag Specialties 5-3/4" Die-Cast Headlight Assembly Die-cast aluminum housing Features an H-3 style bulb Available in matte black Housing dimensions are 6" diameter and 6 1/2" deep Requires a 3/4" mounting block (not included)

Scoop Micro Die-Cast Mirror $49.95 Arlen Ness Scoop Micro Die-Cast Mirror Small stylish designs for custom applications Die-cast construction Feature convex glass Glass dimension measures 4 1/2" W x 1 1/2" H Hardware included Sold each

Die-Cast OEM Brake Levers $9.95 Sunline Die-Cast OEM Brake Levers Die-Cast OEM Brake Levers from Sunline These brake levers are made to the highest quality standards from Aircraft grade A-360 aluminum through pressure Die-Cast construction Brass bushings on many models for smooth operation and precise feel Built to resist breaking with great style and function Designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications Note: image is for reference only, actual product may vary.

CHUGG DIE CAST Werkstatt+Waschanlage $22.99 CHUGG DIE CAST Werkstatt+WaschanlageCHUGG DIE CAST Werkstatt+Waschanlage. Mit Bastian. Lichter und die Originalgeräusche aus der TV Serie. Drei Spielbereiche mit vielen Funktionen: Kontrolliere deine Lok, Repariere sie und wasche sie danach in der Waschanlage Achtung! Nicht für Kinder unter 3 Jahren geeignet, da Kleinteile verschluckt werden können. Erstickungsgefahr!

25pc Die-Cast Metal Cars $12.99 Your child will keep busy for hours playing with this 25-piece car set. Quality crafted of die-cast metal, each car is beautifully designed, 1:64 scale and features plastic wheels that roll for action and fun! Imported.

Die-Cast Lower Dash Panel $52.95 Drag Specialties Die-Cast Lower Dash Panel Chrome lower dash panel replaces the stock tank panel Compatible with aftermarket Fat Bob tanks with a singlegauge dash

Lionel LIO62283 Die-Cast Bumpers $33.59 Illuminated Die cast Metal Bumpers that easily snaps into place between outside rails of O and O 27 track. Made with the Best Quality Material with your child in mind. Top Quality Children's Item.

Die-Cast OEM Brake Perch $15 Sunline Die-Cast OEM Brake Perch Die-Cast OEM Brake Perch from Sunline Precision machined aluminum split perch design for easy mounting and adjustment Applications for clutch side only Two part split perches install easily without the need to remove grips Includes machined aluminum cable adjusters

Daron JetBlue Die-Cast Airport Playset $13.19 Set includes 6" long die-cast plane, die-cast JetBlue ground equipment and plastic signs. Includes 1 aircraft, 4 die cast vehicles, 3 street signs, 1 airport runway sign, 1 arrivals sign, 4 cones. Type: Airplanes & Jets Gender: Male Age: Child

H-D Style and Oval Die-Cast Mirror $11.99 Emgo H-D Style and Oval Die-Cast Mirror Die-cast Chrome mirrors available with oval or classic Harley®-style face Face measures 2" x 4-1/2" w/ 4" stem Sold each

Four Point Micro Die-Cast Mirror $49.95 Arlen Ness Four Point Micro Die-Cast Mirror Small stylish designs for custom applications Available in Chrome or Black finish Die-cast construction Feature convex glass Includes mounting hardware Sold each

Baltimore Ravens Die Cast Hummer 1:43 $10.99 Baltimore Ravens Die Cast Hummer 1:43 Baltimore Ravens Die Cast Hummer 1:43. This item comes fully certified with a certificate of authenticity from an approved SportsMemorabilia.com vendor and is backed by the SportsMemorabilia.com authenticity guarantee.

Costumes 191566 Die Cast Motorcycles Assorted $18.4 Little party guests will have fun with the Die Cast Motorcycles. Include one in their treat bags. Each Package contains 8 Assorted Die Cast Motorcycles. Material: Metal Plastic.

Rad III Die-Cast Mirror $69.95 Arlen Ness Rad III Die-Cast Mirrors Larger version of the Rad II mirror Increased reflective mirror area provides excellent visibility Available in Chrome or Black finish Glass dimension measures 7"W x 3"H DOT approved **Note: Mirrors are tinted

Fiskars Die Cast Craft Knife $5.25 Heavy duty barrel with Softgrip® at the touch point.Features: Die-cast barrel Softgrip® for comfort Standard #11 Blade Blade cover for safety Refill blades sold separately: see FDR-063

Standard Catalog of Die-Cast Vehicles $24.99 Die-cast enthusiasts and collectors will find more than 5,000 listings, along with clear, detailed photos of the most popular current and vintage die-cast vehicles from lines such as Corgi, Johnny Lightning, Matchbox, Hot Wheels, Racing Champions, Tootsietoys, Dinky, GMP, Kyosho, Eagle, and more. Each listing includes a detailed description (including color, size/scale, model number, features and year), as well as up-to-date pricing in up to three grades of condition. This comprehensive guide will help collectors in appraising their collection, while also giving them invaluable information and inspiration to keep on collecting. Also features a convenient checklist format for collectors to track a growing collection.

Die Cast Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Brush Fire Unit Model by Maisto $28.99 1/18th scale die cast;Functional steering Die Cast Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Brush Fire Unit Model by Maisto

Die Cast Cars Asst. (12 count) $7.99 Includes 12 die cast cars come in assorted colors and styles,our choice please.

Pilot Hitch Covers - Die Cast [Hummer] $45.72 Triple Chromed Die-cast Metal. Fits Most Standard 2?Ç¥ Hitch Receivers.

Shopzeus USA zeusd1TOYC2168953 Die Cast Cars 25/BOX $27.86 Die Cast Racecars Another super value Fun small diecast Racing cars. (25/PKG)

CHUGG DIE CAST Ringlokschuppen Spiel-Set $21.99 CHUGG DIE CAST Ringlokschuppen Spiel-SetCHUGG DIE CAST Ringlokschuppen Spiel-Set. &Ecirc Die Location&Euml in der Serie - das Zuhause der Loks - Mit Die-Cast Koko - Licht und die Originalgeräusche aus der TV Serie - Viele Funktionen - 4 Garagen, mit einem beweglichem Launcher, der auch die Türen automatisch aktiviert und öffnet, so dass die Loks herausflitzen können! Mit beweglicher Drehscheibe, damit die Loks in alle Richtungen aus dem Lokschuppen heraus- und hereinfahren können. Achtung! Nicht für Kinder unter 3 Jahren geeignet, da Kleinteile verschluckt werden können. Erstickungsgefahr!

Jeff Burton Die-Cast Case 1/24th Die-Cast Case $54.99 Protect your investment with this attractive acrylic case from Mounted Memories. Proudly display your favorite die-cast car in this unique case which comes with it's own built in pedestal. Each case is hand crafted and engraved with team affiliated sponsor and driver facsimile signature . The case interior measurements are as follows: 9 3/4" in length- 5 1/2" in depth and 7 1/2" in width.