Aluminum Casting Weight Calculator
Estimate aluminum casting weight using real casting-alloy densities — A356, A380, ADC12, A413, 319, AlSi10Mg — not the generic 2.70 every other calculator assumes. The ~3% spread between the lightest (A413, 2.66) and heaviest (ADC12, 2.74) alloys changes part weight and cost. Includes CAD-volume input and poured weight.
How aluminum casting weight is calculated
Aluminum casting alloys span roughly 2.62–2.74 g/cm³. Die-cast parts (A380/ADC12) are slightly denser than sand/gravity-cast A356. Apply a ±2% guard band until first-article verification, as porosity lowers effective density.
Aluminum casting alloy density
| Alloy | Process | Density (g/cm³) |
|---|---|---|
| A356 / 356 | sand / gravity / investment | 2.68 |
| A380 | die casting | 2.73 |
| ADC12 | die casting | 2.74 |
| A413 | die casting | 2.66 |
| 319 | sand / permanent mould | 2.73 |
| AlSi10Mg | casting / additive | 2.68 |
A413/AlSi10Mg are the lightest common casting alloys; ADC12/A380/319 the heaviest. Use a custom density for alloys not listed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the density of aluminum casting alloys?
Common casting alloys range from about 2.66 g/cm³ (A413) to 2.74 (ADC12). A356 is 2.68, A380 is 2.73, 319 is 2.73, AlSi10Mg is 2.68. Pure aluminum is 2.70.
Why does A380 weigh more than A356?
A380 and ADC12 are die-casting alloys with more copper, zinc and iron, giving a higher density (~2.73–2.74) than the Al-Si-Mg alloy A356 (~2.68). For the same part geometry, A380 is about 2% heavier.
Does porosity change the cast weight?
Yes. Real castings contain some porosity, which lowers the effective density and the actual weight slightly below the calculated value. Allow a ±2% guard band and verify with a first-article weighing.
Which density should I use for die casting vs sand casting?
Use the alloy that matches your process: A380/ADC12/A413 for die casting, A356/319 for sand, gravity or investment casting. Pick the alloy in the dropdown and the correct density is applied automatically.
Can I calculate weight from a CAD model?
Yes — choose Custom Volume and enter the part volume from CAD in cm³ or in³. This is the most accurate method for real cast geometry.
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