In the realm of precision machining and tooling, aluminum cast tool & jig plate stands out as a versatile and reliable choice. Commonly known by trade names such as MIC 6, ATP-5, Alca 5, and K-100S, these plates, particularly MIC 6, ATP-5, and Alca 5, offer a unique set of advantages in various applications. Let’s look into the distinctive features and benefits that make cast aluminum tool and aluminum jig plate the preferred option for numerous industries.
Types of Aluminum Cast Tool & Jig Plate
Within the realm of aluminum cast tool and jig plates, various manufacturers tout their products as the epitome of quality and precision. Formerly Alcoa, Arconic specializes in MIC 6® cast tool and jig plate, while Alpase, based in California, is known for its K-100S® cast aluminum tooling plate. Precision Cast Plate (PCP) in Canada proudly produces Alca 5® precision cast plate, and across the Atlantic in Germany, Bikar offers Formodal®, which they describe as “precision milled cast plates.” Adding to the mix, Vista Metals provides ATP-5 precision tooling plate. Despite differences in names and production mills, these products feature more similarities than distinctions.
In the production of these cast tool and jig plates, each manufacturer employs similar methodologies with the goal of mitigating internal stresses within the aluminum plates. The overarching objective is to achieve significant internal stability, minimizing any potential movement during machining. Consistency is achieved as each of these CT&J products is subjected to machining in order to attain a flat surface finish of 32 micro-inches or better on both the top and bottom surfaces. Further protecting this finish, every mill applies a protective PVC coating to each surface, ensuring quality of the product is retained during transport to distributors. In a market saturated with diverse cast aluminum plate products, pinpointing the ideal fit and become a challenge due to the numerous options available.
Precision Machining and Stability
One of the standout features of aluminum cast tool & jig plate is its composition consisting of fine-grain aluminum alloy, which ensures internal stability. This characteristic minimizes movement during machining operations, enabling outcomes that are accurate and precise. Machined to a surface finish equal to 32 micro-inches or better on both sides, these plates are known for their dimensional stability and flat surfaces.
Lightweight and Corrosion Resistance
The lightweight nature of aluminum tool and jig plates, approximately one-third the weight of steel plates, provides a significant advantage in terms of the ease of handling operations and installation. This characteristic reduces the requirement for heavy equipment, minimizing the load required on machinery components. In addition, aluminum’s inherent resistance to corrosion eliminates the need for protective treatments, making it a low maintenance, durable option.
Superior Dimensional Control and Tolerance
Often referred to as CT&J Plate, these machined products provide flatness and tight dimensional control, making them ideal for applications that require precision. Through the use of proper aluminum machining methods, tolerances in the thousandths can be achieved and maintained. The CT&J plate is the top choice when strict dimensional control and flatness tolerances are of primary importance, ensuring the rescission and reliability required in critical applications.
Versatility in Applications
Cast Aluminum Tool & Jig Plate finds its usefulness in a wide array of applications, including welding fixtures, assembly jigs and fixtures, templates, drill jigs, hydro press form blocks, index tables, vacuum chucks, and more. Its usage covers multiple industries, including aerospace, medical instrumentation, plastics, and automotive, attesting to its reliability and versatility.
Types of Aluminum Tooling and Jig Plate
There are three main types of aluminum tooling and jig plate: casted aluminum tooling plate, molded aluminum tooling plate, and rolled aluminum tooling plate. Each type of CT&J plate caters to specific needs based on its properties and manufacturing process.
Cast Aluminum Tooling Plate: Continuous casting and thermal stress relief characterize cast aluminum tooling plates. With maximum stability and the best thickness tolerance, these plates, often available in the thickness range of 6mm to 50mm, are well-suited for precision applications that require dimensional accuracy.
Molded Aluminum Tooling Plate: Molded aluminum tooling plates, typically rolled, provide a balance between service life and stability. While not possessing the same stability as cast tooling plates, they are utilized with highly processed components, particularly injection molds. This type is commonly employed in the 100 mm to 250 mm thickness range.
Rolled Aluminum Tooling Plate: Made from 5000 series alloys, rolled aluminum tooling plates are subjected to annealing to enhance ductility. Precision machining produces dimensions having minimum tolerances. This type of aluminum tooling plate is often chosen for strength applications in engineering, manufacturing, and construction.
Howard Precision Metals: Your Trusted Partner
For over 90 years, Howard Precision Metals has been a stalwart in the aluminum service center business, delivering state-of-the-art solutions to meet various aluminum alloy product needs. Recognized for tight cutting tolerances and a dedication to excellence, our offerings include the highly effective MIC-6 aluminum cast tool & jig plate. You can trust our team to provide you with the best aluminum alloy product for your application every time.
Are you ready to experience the advantages of cast aluminum tooling plate & jig plate for your duster application? Give us a call today at 866.602.3788 or request a quote through our website. Discover how we can enhance your project results with exceptional aluminum solutions.
