Zamak 3 (ASTM AG40A): Standard Zinc Die Casting Alloy
ASTM B86 · Published: 2026-06-01 · Updated: 2026-06-02
Zamak 3 (ASTM AG40A) is the de facto standard zinc die casting alloy, containing approximately 4% Al, 0.04% Mg, and ≤0.25% Cu. It provides the optimum balance of castability, dimensional stability, and mechanical properties at the lowest cost...
Zamak 3 (ASTM AG40A) is the de facto standard zinc die casting alloy, containing approximately 4% Al, 0.04% Mg, and ≤0.25% Cu. It provides the optimum balance of castability, dimensional stability, and mechanical properties at the lowest cost among zinc alloys. Hot-chamber die casting at 380-430°C enables the highest production rates of any metal casting process—cycle times of 1-2 seconds for small components. Excellent for thin-wall (0.5 mm minimum), complex net-shape parts requiring tight tolerances (±0.05 mm achievable). Used for automotive door lock housings, zipper components, plumbing fittings, and electronic connector bodies.
Quick Facts
| Category | Zinc Alloy |
| Standard | ASTM B86 |
| Density | 6.60 g/cm³ |
| Yield Strength | N/A (brittle) |
| Tensile Strength | 283 MPa (41 ksi) |
Global Equivalents & Cross-Reference
| Alternative Standard / Grade | Action |
|---|---|
| EN ZnAl4 | Compare |
| ZP0400 | Compare |
| JIS ZDC2 | Compare |
| ISO ZnAl4Cu1 | Compare |
🧮 Material Weight Calculator
Calculate the weight based on this material's density: 6.60 g/cm³
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Zamak 3 and Zamak 5?
Zamak 5 adds approximately 1% copper to improve tensile strength (328 vs 283 MPa) and hardness at a small cost in ductility (7% vs 10% elongation). Zamak 3 is preferred for most applications due to better dimensional stability and castability.
References & International Standards
- ASTM International. Standard Specifications for Steel & Metal Alloys. astm.org
- International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Metallic Materials — Cross-Reference Database. iso.org
- American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Steel Grade Designations & Equivalents. steel.org
- European Committee for Standardization (CEN). EN Steel Standards & Numbering System. cencenelec.eu