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Using an aluminum casting to replace an iron casting will result in reducing component weight by half. That is why auto producers are searching the areas where they may replace iron parts with aluminium parts. Most auto manufacturers prefer alloys of aluminium specially the A 300 series which have a mix of silicon + a minor amount of magnesium.

The silicon provides fluidity while casting, which allows thinner parts to be cast. The magnesium gives strength (via heat treatment). An important feature of aluminum and its alloys is that in comparison with ferrous alloys which show a unlimited fatigue strength, the fatigue strength of aluminum alloys goes down with increase in number of stress cycles this needs to be taken in account while designing its parts.

For getting high quality castings a variety of processes are followed. While casting permanent molds precautions are taken to ensure that it gets required cooling and vacuum pressure is also applied to ensure correct flow and lessen porosity. Aluminum is one of the few metals which may be cast by all processes of casting.

Die casting:
Aluminum alloys are more utilized in die casting than alloys of any metal. In USA alone 2.5 billion dollars worth aluminum alloy die castings are manufactured every year. Die casting is suitable for production of smaller parts. But when expensive manufacturing equipment is used the castings weigh 5kg-50kg. Cost effectiveness can be obtained only by large scale production. With die casting it is possible to have close tolerance and fine finishing surface. Die castings are manufactured by injecting melted metal into metal molds under considerable pressure. Quick injecting and quick solidification under high pressure make a fine grain surface, which leads to having best wear and fatigue properties. Aluminum die castings are generally not given heat treatment, so they cannot be welded.

Permanent die casting:
It is also known as gravity die casting and is suitable for large scale production. Their maximum weight is 10kg. But where heavy cost machinery and tools are used the weight of casting may go up to 50kg. Permanent mold casting have low pouring rate but metal molds solidify quickly, mechanical properties of permanent mold castings may be further bettered by heat treatment.

Sand casting:
Sand casting is casting of a mold with sand. In normal sand casting, the mold is made around a design by forcing sand mixed along with a bonding agent on the design. Then the design is taken out which leaves a cavity for casting. Melted metal is poured into the mold and after its solidification the mold is broken to remove casting. The most normal bonding agent is a mix of clay and water. Good metal handling practice is needed for getting good castings.

Aluminum fishing boats are growing more and more popular these days because of the many advantages they have over those that are made from fiberglass or steel. Aluminum fishing boats are typically more resistant to corrosion, rot and leaks and they are more power-efficient. Aside from that, aluminum fishing boats are also stronger and are easy to fix and repair once they get damaged.

It is true that you need more bucks in purchasing an aluminum boat but it will pay off in the long run with much savings in fuel, repairs and upkeep and maintenance and towing. Aluminum fishing boats are ideal not only for fishing but also for your recreational activities. They can be used if you want to cruise with your family, whether in fresh or salt waters.

Aluminum fishing boats are good for individual fishermen because they are really easy to manage. This type of fishing boat has a high strength-to-weight ratio making it easy to carry by just one person. It is also easy to load on an ordinary vehicle and set into the water when you are ready to use it. Another factor that adds to the aluminum fishing boat’s versatility is that it is easy to upgrade. This boat allows you to install some features that you may want.

Also, you can’t question the durability of an aluminum fishing boat. They sport a solid construction with metal pieces welded along the boat’s seams which prevents water from getting inside and makes joint disconnection less likely to happen. Unlike fiberglass fishing boats that usually shatter, aluminum fishing boats withstand impacts by means of deforming into dents or dings which can simply be hammered out.