The material selection of die-casting lighting parts directly affects their performance, applicable scenarios, and service life. The core differences brought by different materials are mainly reflected in the following aspects:
1. Thermal conductivity and heat dissipation capability
Aluminum alloy (mainstream choice): excellent thermal conductivity, can quickly transfer heat from the light source, suitable for high-power lighting (such as street lamps, mining lamps), and avoid light decay.
Zinc alloy: has weak thermal conductivity and is prone to heat accumulation when used in high-power lamps for a long time. It is more suitable for low-power or decorative lighting (such as ambient lighting).
Magnesium alloy: Lightweight and with better thermal conductivity than engineering plastics, but with higher cost, it is mostly used in scenarios where heat dissipation and weight are both critical (such as mobile device lighting).
2. Structural strength and impact resistance
Zinc alloy: high hardness and strong compression resistance, suitable for outdoor lighting fixtures that require impact protection (such as parking lot ceiling lights).
Aluminum alloy: Moderate strength, can meet the vibration resistance requirements of most industrial scenarios through structural design (such as reinforcing ribs).
Magnesium alloy: has the highest specific strength (strength/weight ratio), but has lower toughness and is prone to brittle fracture under extreme impact, requiring cushioning design.
3. Corrosion resistance and environmental adaptability
Aluminum alloy: The surface is prone to oxidation and forms a protective film. Anodizing can greatly improve salt spray resistance and acid alkali resistance, making it suitable for corrosive environments such as seaside and chemical plants.
Zinc alloy: It is prone to electrochemical corrosion in humid environments and requires strict surface treatment (such as electroplating), otherwise it is only suitable for use in dry rooms.
Composite materials (such as die cast aluminum+plastic): Insulated from corrosive media by covering with a plastic layer, suitable for high pollution areas.
4. Weight and installation convenience
Magnesium alloy: has the lowest density (33% lighter than aluminum), significantly reducing the installation load of high-altitude or cantilever lamps.
Aluminum alloy: Moderate weight, balanced strength and portability, widely used in detachable lighting modules.
Zinc alloy: with the highest density, heavy parts may limit its application in ceiling structures or lightweight designs.
5. Surface treatment and aesthetics
Aluminum alloy: High stability in anodizing coloring, capable of achieving metallic texture and multi-color customization, meeting the aesthetic needs of commercial lighting.
Zinc alloy: Strong electroplating adhesion, suitable for high reflective mirror or antique copper effect, but it is prone to scratches after long-term use.
Magnesium alloy: The surface treatment process is complex, the cost is high, and it generally has a matte texture, with functionality taking priority over appearance.
6. Cost and Economy of Mass Production
Aluminum alloy: The raw material cost is moderate, the die-casting process is mature, suitable for large-scale production, and the cost-effectiveness is high.
Zinc alloy: The mold has a long service life and is suitable for complex and fine parts (such as hollow lampshades), but the raw material price fluctuates greatly.
Magnesium alloy: With high raw material and flame retardant process costs, it is often used in high-end or special projects with significant weight reduction benefits.
Material | Thermal Management | Mechanical Strength | Corrosion Resistance | Weight Impact | Surface Finish | Cost Considerations |
Aluminum Alloy | Superior heat dissipation; ideal for high-power fixtures | Moderate strength; often reinforced with ribs | Good with protective treatments (e.g., anodizing) | Moderate; balanced for most applications | Highly customizable finishes (anodizing) | Cost-effective for mass production |
Zinc Alloy | Limited; prone to heat buildup under high load | Highest hardness; impact-resistant for rugged use | Requires coatings (e.g., plating) for moisture resistance | Heaviest; limits lightweight designs | Excellent for high-gloss/reflective finishes | Higher material cost; excels in intricate designs |
Magnesium Alloy | Better than plastics; suitable for thermal-critical lightweight needs | High strength-to-weight ratio; brittle under extreme force | Requires specialized coatings for protection | Lightest; optimal for weight-sensitive setups | Limited aesthetic options; functional focus | Highest cost (material & processing) |