ADC12 is an aluminium die casting alloy defined in the Japanese JIS standard. It contains roughly 9.6-12% silicon and 1.5-3.5% copper, with iron, zinc and other elements allowed at relatively generous limits. The silicon gives excellent fluidity for thin walls, and the copper adds strength and machinability. It is close in character to A383 and is usually produced from secondary aluminium.
Why it matters when buying
- Check every heat on a spectro report: iron, zinc and copper drift are the usual problems with scrap-based ingot.
- Ask about melt cleanliness, since oxide inclusions and hydrogen cause porosity and leaks in castings.
- Confirm ingot weight per piece and bundle packing to suit your holding furnace.
- ADC12 is not heat treated in normal use and has moderate corrosion resistance because of its copper content.
Typical uses
Two-wheeler and car parts, gearbox and engine covers, electrical housings, motor end shields, appliance parts and general die casting. Where corrosion resistance or ductility matter more, buyers look at LM6 or LM25. The guide ADC12 vs LM6 vs LM24 compares the options; see listings under alloy ingots.