Alloy Cam Buckle chooses aluminum or zinc alloy material mainly based on the comprehensive advantages of both in terms of performance, processing and cost.
1. Advantages of zinc alloy
(1) Excellent casting performance and high precision
Zinc alloy is easy to die-cast and can manufacture parts with complex shapes and high-precision details. It has excellent fluidity and long-term dimensional stability, which is suitable for buckles that require fine structures. In addition, the thin coating characteristics of zinc alloy can avoid surface roughness, suitable for surface treatment such as electroplating and spraying, and improve aesthetics.
(2) High strength and durability
Zinc alloy is composed of zinc, aluminum, magnesium and copper. It has high resistance to fracture, bending and impact, and is suitable for applications that withstand dynamic loads (such as seat belt buckles). For example, the strength of zinc alloy buckles can reach more than 500 pounds, far exceeding plastic materials such as nylon, and it will not become brittle due to water absorption at low temperatures.
(3) Cost-effectiveness
The raw material cost of zinc alloy is low, and the die-casting process consumes less energy, which is suitable for mass production and reduces the cost per unit. It is mentioned that although aluminum alloy is lighter, zinc alloy has a longer mold life, a lower defective rate, and a better overall cost.
(4) Environmental adaptability
Zinc alloy has excellent corrosion resistance and is particularly suitable for scenes exposed to water or cold environments (such as snow equipment) without failing due to oxidation or low temperature.
2. Advantages of aluminum alloy
(1) Lightweight
The density of aluminum alloy is only about 40% of that of zinc alloy, which can significantly reduce the weight of the buckle and is suitable for weight-sensitive applications (such as sports equipment or aviation parts). For example, aluminum buckles are described as "ultra-light and durable."
(2) Good mechanical properties
Aluminum alloys can increase their strength by adding elements such as copper and magnesium. For example, the strength of the AA7xxx series alloys can reach 550 N/mm², which is close to the level of steel. Improved aluminum parts (such as COMP Cams' aluminum rocker arm) can withstand high loads (such as 350 pounds of spring pressure) while remaining lightweight.
(3) Corrosion resistance
Aluminum alloys are easy to form an oxide film on their surface, which is resistant to atmospheric corrosion. The protection can be further enhanced by anodizing, making them suitable for outdoor or humid environments.
(4) Processing flexibility
Aluminum alloys are easy to cut, weld, and cold-form, making them suitable for scenarios that require customized designs. For example, aluminum bicycle frames achieve high strength and streamlined structures through hydraulic forming and welding.
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