LM Standards PDF

LM0
ALUMINIUM CASTING ALLOY

99.50+% ALUMINIUM
Colour Code - WHITE
This alloy conforms to BS 1490:1988 LM0.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
%
Copper ---------------------- 0.03 max,
Magnesium --------------- 0.03 max,
Silicon ----------------------- 0.30 max,
Iron --------------------------- 0.40 max.
Manganese ---------------- 0.03 max.
Nickel ------------------------ 0.03 max.
Zinc -------------------------- 0.07 max.
Lead ------------------------- 0.03 max.
Tin ---------------------------- 0.03 max.
Aluminium ----------------- 99.50* mm.
Others: total -------------- 0.50 max.
* The Aluminium content shall be determined by difference, i,e. by
subtracting the total of all other elements listed,
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
LM0-M
Sand Cast Chill Cast
2
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm ) 30 30
2
Tensile Stress (N/mm ) 80 80
Elongation (%) 30 40
Impact Resistance Izod (Nm) - -
Brinell Hardness 25 25
7 2
Endurance Limit (5x10 cycles; N/mm ) - -
3 2
Modulus of Elasticity (x10 N/mm ) 69 69
2
Shear Strength (N/mm ) 55 55
The values shown are typical for sand and chill cast test bars produced to
the requirement of B.S. 1490. There are no minimum specification values.
79
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (per°C at 20-100°C) 0.000024

2
Thermal Conductivity (cal/cm /cm/°C at 0°C) 0.50
2
ElectrIcal Conductivity (% copper standard at 20°C)* 57
3
Density (g/cm ) 2.70
Freezing Range (°C) approx 657-643
* Value is approximate and will vary with the soundness of the casting.
MACHINABILITY
Pure Aluminium, because of its softness and ductility, is more difficult to
machine than aluminium alloys and more care is required to obtain a
good finish and to overcome “gumminess”. Aluminium tends to build up
on the edge of the cutting tool but this can be reduced by the use of
cutting compounds and the maintenance of keen cutting surfaces free
from grinding marks. Turnings tend to be long and continuous, and must
be directed away from the work by generous side and top rake angles.
CORROSION RESISTANCE
Castings of pure Aluminium have excellent resistanceto corrosion in a
very wide range of conditions and media.
ANODIZING
Colourless transparent films of adequate thickness can readily be pro
duced on LM0, The anodic coatings are particularly suitable for dyeing
to give a coloured finish. Anodizing may also be employed to produce
an electrically insulating surface.
80
CASTING CHARACTERISTICS
FLUIDITY Fair, but not recommended for very thin castings.
-
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Fair, it may be difficult to produce leak tight

-
castings.
HOT-TEARING Fair, there is a tendency to hottearing depending on the
-
casting configuration, and feeding arrangements, LM0 has a very short

solidification range and a high solidification shrinkage; therefore special
attention must be given to providing optimum temperature gradients for
directional solidification.
TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE - 730-760°C for sand and permanent
mould castings. Higher temperatures may result in coarse grained
castings and an increase in hot tearing. Die casting optimum
temperatures are machine dependent.
PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE - 1.6% or 1/62,
This is high.
HEAT TREATMENT
This alloy is not heat treated.
APPLICATIONS
The use of pure Aluminium castings is comparatively small. The main
fields are electrical applications, food and chemical plant, including slush
cast spouts, and to a lesser degree, jewellery and light trim. The
greatest use is undoubtedly electrical, where the high conductivity of the
unalloyed metal offers obvious advantages; in addition, ductility enables
it to be readily deformed under pressure and use is made of this, for
example, in cable clamps. It is widely used for cast rotors for electric
motors but a composition having a higher Iron content than is allowed in
LM0, would have better castability and is generally preferred.
81
LM2 (EN 1706 AC-46100)

(A1-Si10Cu2)
Colour Code - RED/WHITE

EN 1706 AC-46100
%
Copper ------------------------------------------------ 0.7-2.5 1.5-2.5
Magnesium --------------------------------------- 0.30 max. 0.30
Silicon -------------------------------------------------- 9.0-11.5 10.0-12.0
Iron -------------------------------------------------------- 1.0 max. 1.1 (0.45-1.0)
Manganese -------------------------------------- 0.5 max. 0.55
Nickel --------------------------------------------------- 0.5 max. 0.45
Zinc ------------------------------------------------------- 2.0 max 1.7
Lead ----------------------------------------------------- 0.3 max. 0.25
Tin -------------------------------------------------------- 0.2 max 0.25
Titanium --------------------------------------------- 0.2 max. 0.25 (0.20)
Aluminium ----------------------------------------- Remainder
Others: total ------------------------------------- 0.50 max. 0.50
Figures in brackets are ingot compositions where they differ from the casting, single figures are maxima,
LM2-M
Chill Cast Die Cast
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 90-130 130
Tensile Stress (N/mm2) 150-200 300
Elongation (%) 2-3 1-3
Impact Resistance Charpy (Nm) - 2.9
Brinell Hardness 65-90 65-90
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles;N/mm2) 70-100 70-100
Modulus of Elasticity (x103 N/mm2) 71 71
Shear Strength (N/mm2) 200 200
The values shown are typical ranges for chill cast test bars produced to the requirement of
B.S. 1490. Die cast values obtained on 6mm test bars. Those in heavier type are minimum
specification values.
82
STRENGTH AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES

The reduction in strength of the alloy at elevated temperatures depends
upon composition. If the amounts of the elements present, particularly
Copper, Nickel and Manganese, are low, the strength is greatly reduced
at temperatures of the order of 250°C but, if the maximum permissible
amounts of these elements are present, the alloy retains moderate
strength at this temperature.
It should be noted that other factors may restrict the use of die castings
at elevated temperatures.
The maximum service temperature is 150°C.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Thermal Conductivity (cal/cm2/cm/°C at 25°C) 0.24
Electrical Conductivity (% copper standard at 20°C) 26
Density (g/cm3) 2.74
MACHINABILITY
This alloy is a little difficult to machine since the high Silicon content
causes rapid tool wear, It is, however, far easier than the LM6 and LM20
alloys, as the tendency to drag is practically eliminated by the presence
of Copper and the other elements.
Carbide-tipped tools are advocated but high speed steel tools give good
results. A cutting lubricant and coolant should be employed.
Resistance to corrosion by ordinary atmospheric conditions is good and
by marine atmospheres fairly good. It is inferior in this respect to LM6
but can be improved by anodic treatment.
ANODIZING
LM2 can be anodically treated to give a protective surface of a dark grey
colour. The surfaces of die castings, however, are not generally suitable
for decorative anodizing.
83
FLUIDITY - Good, can be cast easily into thin and intricate sections.
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS - Excellent for leak tight castings,
HOT-TEARING - Excellent, this alloy is virtually free from hot tearing.
TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE - 615-700°C
Temperatures for die castings are machine dependent,
Melts should not be allowed to stand at temperatures just above the
freezing range or the bottom of the melt will become enriched in alloying
elements such as Iron and Manganese.
PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE - 1.3% or 1/75
Solidification shrinkage is approximately 3.7%.
HEAT TREATMENT
Castings in this alloy are not normally heat treated, Castings may be
annealed at temperatures between 260-370°C, held at temperature be-
tween 4-6 hours and furnace cooled.
APPLICATIONS
Essentially a die casting alloy, LM2 is not normally used for other types
of casting. As a general purpose alloy, its applications are extremely
varied and widespread and it may be used for almost any component
which can be die cast, unless the service conditions demand a higher
resistance to corrosion or slightly greater ductility, in which case LM6 or
LM20 may be preferred.
For most applications LM2 and LM24 are interchangeable, but LM2 has
a slightly lower density, LM6 and LM20 would be betterthan LM2 in a
corrosive environment, unless it can be protected by anodizing. LM2 has
poor weldability and poor brazeability.
84
LM4 (EN 1706 AC-45200)

(Al-Si5Cu3Mn0.5)
Colour Code - RED
This alloy conforms to BS 1490:1988 LM4. Castings are standardized in
the as cast (M) condition or fully heat treated (TF) condition.
EN 1706 AC-45200
%
Copper - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2.0-4.0 2.5-4.0
Magnesium - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.20 max.

0.40
Silicon - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4.0-6.0
4.5-6.0
Iron - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.8 max. 0.8(0.7)
Manganese - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2-0.6
0.20-0.55
Nickel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.3 max.

0.30
Zinc - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max. 0.55
Lead - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.20
Tin - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.10
Titanium - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max.

0.20 (0.15)
Aluminium - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Remainder
Others: each - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. 0.05
Others: total - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.15 max

0.25
Figures in brackets are ingot compositions where they differ from the casting,
single figures are maxima.
LM4-M
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 70-110 80-110
Tensile Stress (N/mm2) 140-170 160-220
Impact Resistance Izod (Nm) 1.4 2.1
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles; N/mm2) 75 85
85
LM4-TF
2
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm ) 200-300 200-300
Impact Resistance Izod (Nm) -
Brirtell Hardness 90-120 90-120
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles;N/mm2) 60-90 70-1 00
The values shown are typical ranges for sand and chill cast test bars produced to the
requirement of B.S. 1490. Those in heavier type are minimum specification values.

Room temperature tensile strength of LM4-M is largely retained up to
200°C and falls to about half at 300°C.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (per°C at 20-100°C) 0. 000021
2
3
MACHINABILITY
This alloy has fairly good machining properties, being intermediate be-
tween the rather difficult Aluminium-Silicon alloys and the easily machi-
nable Aluminium-Copper group. Liberal cutting lubricant and coolant
should be employed. Castings show improved machinability after heat-
treatment.
Resistance to attack under normal atmospheric conditions is fairly good.
Considerable improvement in resistance to corrosion is effected by

anodic treatment; a small increase in resistance is obtained when the
alloy is solution heat-treated.
86
ANODIZING
Treatment by the chromic acid process will give a resistant but generally
greyish coloured surface, but a lighter film suitable for dyeing can be
obtained with the sulphuric acid method. The colour and quality of the
coating depend to some extent upon the condition of the castings, i.e.
whether sand or chill cast and whether heat-treated, and also on the
thickness of the film.
FLUIDITY - Good,
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS - Excellent, suitable for leak tight castings.
HOT-TEARING - Good, but the placing of feeders or chills at heavy
sections of the casting is essential.
TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE - 720°C
Temperatures above or below this value may be used depending on the
mould configuration. Too high a temperature must be avoided. This alloy
may be grain refined.
PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE - 1.3% or 1/75.
HEAT TREATMENT
This alloy’s response to heat treatment is dependent on the presence of
Magnesium; therefore for such treatment, the Magnesium content
should be near the maximum.
A very considerable increase in mechanical properties is obtained by
Solution heat treatment and artificial ageing.
LM4-TF (fully heat treated) - Heat for 6-16 hours at 505-520°C, quench
in hot water and heat for 6-18 hours at 150-170°C and air cool.
If bending or straightening of castings is necessary, this should be
carried out after the solution heat treatment, since in this state the
castings exhibit greatly increased ductility.
87
APPLICATIONS
This alloy is widely used and is suitable for most general engineering
purposes including cylinder-heads, crank-cases, junction boxes, gear
boxes, clutch-cases, switch gear covers, instrument cases, tool-handles
and household fittings, office equipment and electrical tools etc., where
moderate mechanical properties are desirable. Its casting characteristics
permit it to be used forthe production of thick and moderately thin forms
and also for castings required to be pressure tight. In the heat treated
state, it may be used for castings required to maintain a relatively high
static loading. It has good weldability.
LM4 is equally suitable for the production of sand and permanent mould
castings but the higher Silicon alloys such as LM2 and LM24 are
generally to be preferred.
88
LM5 (EN 1706 AC-51300)

(Al -Mg5Mn0.5)
Colour Code - BLACK

EN 1706 AC-51300
%
Copper - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.10 (0.05)
Magnesium - - - - - - - - - - 3.0-6.0 4.5-6.5 (4.8-6.5)
Silicon - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.3 max. 0.55 (0.35)
Iron - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.6max. 0.55 (0.45)
Manganese - - - - - - - - - - 0.3-0.7 0.45
Nickel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. -
Zinc - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.10
Lead - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. -
Tin - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. -
Titanium - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.20 (0.15)
Aluminium - - - - - - - - - - - Remainder
Others: each - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. 0.05
Others: total - - - - - - - - - - 0.15 max. 0.15
Figures in brackets are ingot compositions where they differ from the casting, single
figures are maxima.
LM5-M
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 90-110 90-120
Elongation (%) 3 5
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles;N/mm2) 54 100
Shear Strength (N/mm2) 140
The values shown are typical ranges for sand and chill cast test bars produced to the requirement of B.S.
1490. Those in heavier type are minimum specification values.

Room temperature properties are largely maintained up to 200°C, but
fall rapidly above 300°C.
89
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion
2
(per°C at 20-100°C) 0.000023
Electrical Conductivity
3
(% copper standard at 20°C) 31
MACHINABILITY
LM5 machines very well and takes an excellent polish.
This alloy is highly resistant to corrosion under most conditions and is
superior to all other Aluminium alloys for marine use.
ANODIZING
LM5 may be anodized by any of the more common processes.
A transparent colourless-to-whitish film is obtained according to the process
used, and is suitable for decorative finishing.
FLUIDITY Fair, not recommended for very thin castings.
-
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Poor, it may be difficult to obtain pressure
tightness in castings other than those of a simple shape.
HOT-TEARING Fair, the alloy shows a pronounced tendency towards
hot-tearing and precautions should be taken to minimise constraint to
contraction in the mould.
TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE 700°C

-
This temperature should not be greatly exceeded.
PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE 1.3% or 1/75.
NOTE This alloy is rather more difficult than most others to melt and
cast satisfactorily. Special care must be taken to avoid oxidation during
melting and during the actual pouring operation. The alloy must be
thoroughly de-gassed and, for sand castings of heavy section, the
incorporation of Boric acid as an inhibitor in the sand is advocated to
prevent the reaction of the alloy with the moisture of the mould which
can lead to gas porosity and dross inclusions.
HEAT TREATMENT
LM5 alloy is not heat-treated.
90
APPLICATION
The alloy is used where very high resistance to corrosion from sea water or
marine atmospheres is required, for equipment used for the manufacture of
foodstuffs, cooking utensils and chemical plant, and for castings required to
exhibit and maintain a surface of high polish. Applications include, for
example, door furniture, car fittings and trim, and similar castings where a
colourless anodic film is required.
It is mainly used for sand castings and, to a lesser extent, for permanent
mould castings but die castings of a relatively simple shape have been
made.
91
LM6 (EN 1706 AC-44100)

(Al-Si12)
Colour Code - YELLOW
EN 1706 AC-44100
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.15 (0.10)
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - - 0.10 max. 0.10
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10.0-13.0 10.5-13.5
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.6 max 0.65 (0.55)
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max. 0.55
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.10
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.15
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.10
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max -
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max 0.20 (0.15)
Aluminium- - - - - - - - - - - - Remainder
Others: each- - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. 0.05
Others: total- - - - - - - - - - - 0.15 max 0.15
Figures in brackets are ingot compositions where they differ from the casting, single figures are
maxima.
LM6-M
Sand Cast
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 60-70
Tensile Stress (N/mm2) 160-190
Elongation (%) 5
Impact Resistance Izod (Nm) 6.0
Brinell Hardness 50-55
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles; N/mm2) 51
Modulus of Elasticity (x103 N/mm2) 71
92
LM6-M
Chill Cast Die Cast
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 70-80 120
Elongation (%) 7 2-5
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles; N/mm2) 68 70-100
Shear Strength (N/mm2) -
1490. Die cast values are obtained from 6mm diameter test bars. Those in heavier type are minimum
specification values.

Tensile strength and hardness decrease fairly regularly with increasing
temperature and become relatively poor at 250°C.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
(per°C at 20-100°C) 0.000020
3
MACHINABILITY
Alloys of this and similar compositions are rather difficult to machine. This
is due to their tendency to drag and to the rapid tool wear caused by the
high Silicon content. Carbide-tipped tools with large rake angles and
relativelylow cutting speeds give comparatively good results. A Cutting
lubricant and coolant should be employed.
LM6 exhibits excellent resistance to corrosion under both ordinary atmos
pheric and marine conditions. For the severest conditions, this property can
be further enhanced by anodic treatment.
ANODIZING
LM6 can be anodized by any of the common processes, the resulting film
ranging in colour from grey to dark brown.
93
FLUIDITY Excellent, can be cast into thinner and more intricate sections
-
than other casting alloys, which makes it useful for producing complex
castings of large surface area and thin walls.
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Excellent, especially suitable for leak tight
-
castings.
HOT-TEARING - Excellent, castings in sand or chill moulds are
completely free from hot tearing.

-
Sand and permanent mould pouring temperatures may be varied in
practice. Die casting pouring temperatures are machine dependent The
molten metal should not be allowed to stand at temperatures just above
the solidification temperature, as the base of the melt will become
enriched in alloying elements such as Iron and Manganese.
PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE - 1.3% or 1/75.
Die casting shrinkage may be considerably less in some instances.
Solidification shrinkage is approximately 3.7%
HEAT TREATMENT
Ductility can be improved slightly by heating at 250-300°C, but, apart from
stress relieving, the heat treatment of LM6 is of little industrial interest.
APPLICATIONS
This alloy, having high resistance to corrosion and excellent castability, is
most suitable for marine ‘on deck’ castings, watercooled manifolds and
jackets, motor car and road transport fittings, thin section and intricate
castings such as motor housings, meter cases and switch boxes, for very
large castings, e.g., cast doors and panels where ease of casting is
essential, for chemical and dye industry castings, e.g., pump parts, for
paint industry and food and domestic castings. It is especially suitable for
castings that are to be welded.
The ductility of LM6 alloy enables castings to be rectified easily or even
modified in shape, e.g., simple components may be cast straight and later
bent to the required contour.
It is equally adaptable for sand and permanent mould castings and for die
castings.
This alloy has excellent resistance to corrosion in marine environments,
possesses excellent ductility, but is of medium strength and is not heat
treated. Its strength falls off rapidly at high temperatures. Its elastic limit is
low and there is difficulty with machining.
94
LM9 (EN 1706 AC-43100)

(Al –Si12Mg0.5Mn0.5)
Colour Code - YELLOW/BROWN
the as cast (M) condition, in the precipitation treated (TE) condition or in
the fully heat treated (TF) condition.
EN 1706 AC-43100
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.20 max. 0.10 (0.08)
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.2-0.6max. 0.25-0.45(0.30-0.45)
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10.0-13.0 9.0-11.0
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.6 max 0.55 (0.45)
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.3-0.7 0.45
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.05
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.10
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.05
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max 0.05
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max 0.15
Aluminium- - - - - - - - - - - Remainder
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. 0.05
Others: total- - - - - - - - - - 0.15 max 0.15
Figures in brackets are ingot compositions where they differ from the castings, single
figures are maxima.
LM9-M
Chill Cast
Tensile Stress (N/mm2) 190
Elongation (%) 3-5
Impact Resistance Izod (Nm)
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles; N/mm2) 70-100
Modulus of Elasticity (x103 N/mm2)
Shear Strength (N/mm2)
95
LM9-TE
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 110-130 150-170
Tensile Stress (N/mm2) 170 230
Elongation (%) 1.5 2
Impact Resistance Izod (Nm) 1.4 2
LM9-TF
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 220-250 270-280
1490. Those in heavier type are minimum specification values.

Tensile properties are unaffected by temperatures up to 150°C but pro
longed heating at temperatures significantly higher reduces the strength.
For example, the tensile strength of chill cast LM9-TF at 200°C (after
heating for 500 h) is approximately half that at room temperature, and only
25% of the original value at 250°C.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
(per°C at 20-100°C) 0.000022
3
MACHINABILITY
Very considerable tool wear occurs in machining this alloy, but there is not
the same tendency to drag that occurs with high Silicon alloys containing
no other alloying elements, e.g. LM6. Carbide-tipped tools with large rake
angles and relatively low cutting speeds give good results. A cutting
lubricant and coolant should be employed.
96
LM9 exhibits excellent resistance to corrosion under both ordinary atmos
pheric and marine conditions.
ANODIZING
LM9 can be anodized by any of the common processes, the resulting
protective film ranging in colour from grey to dark brown, depending on the
method employed.
FLUIDITY Good, suitable for thin and intricate castings.
-
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Good, suitable for leak tight castings.

-
HOT-TEARING Excellent, castings are completely free from hot tears

-
in sand and chill moulds.

TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE -710°C
The mould design will influence the actual pouring temperature. The
presence of Magnesium which will oxidize if the melt is at too high a
temperature or kept too long at temperature, requires more care to be
exercised in the melting and casting of this alloy. Oxide could be
introduced into the casting by accident
For sand castings and medium and heavy chill castings, the normal
practice is to modify the melt with Sodium.

-
HEAT TREATMENT
Heat treatment produces high strength and hardness.
LM9-TE ( precipitation heat treated ) Heat for 16 hours at 150-170°C.
LM9-TF (fully heat treated ) Heat for 2-8 hours at 520-535°C, and quench
in water and heat for 16 hours at 150-170°C.
APPLICATIONS
LM9 alloy is used where the fluidity and corrosion resistance of LM6 are
required with high strength and hardness. It is equally suitable for sand and
permanent mould casting and is extensively used for low pressure
castings, for cover plates and instrument cases. It is useful for
electroplated components. LM9 has poor weldability and brazeability.
97
LM12
(A1-Cul0Mg0.3)
Colour Code GREEN -

Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9.0-11.0
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.2-0.4
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2.5 max.
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.0 max.
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.6 max.
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max.
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.8 max.
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max.
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05 max.
Others: total- - - - - - - - - - 0.15 max
LM12-M
Chill Cast
Elongation (%) 0.5-1.5
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles; N/mm2) 60
Shear Strength (N/mm2)
The values shown are typical ranges for chill cast test bars produced to the
requirement of B.S. 1490. Those in heaviertype are minimum specification values.

Tensile strength and a high proof stress/ultimate tensile stress ratio are
well maintained at elevated temperatures.
98
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
(per°C at 20-300°C) 0.000024
3
MACHINABILITY
This machines very well and takes a high polish. Ordinary machining
methods, as applied for example to gun metal, give very satisfactory
results, But high cutting speeds may be used to advantage.
Resistance to seawater and atmospheric conditions is rather lower than
that of the Copper-free Aluminium alloys. This does not detract from the
value of LM12 for many applications; for most engineering purposes the
resistance is satisfactory. Resistance to corrosion by oils and fatty acids is
very good.
ANODIZING
This alloy is not recommended for anodic treatment, although a non-
protective film may be obtained by the sulphuric acid process.
FLUIDITY Fair, not recommended for very thin castings.
-
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Good, produces very sound castings,

-
especially when chill cast.

HOT-TEARING Good, exhibits moderate resistance to hot tearing.
-
TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE 710°C -
The mould configuration will influence the optimum temperature.

-
HEAT TREATMENT
This alloy will respond to heat treatment to give increased strength and
hardness. BS 1490 does not specify heat treated properties for this alloy.
99
APPLICATIONS
In the past, the main uses for LM12 were for pistons in intemal combustion
engines, but in this field it has been superseded by LM1 3 and LM26 which
have the advantage of a lower thermal expansion.
The alloy now finds its main applications where castings are required to
withstand high hydraulic pressures or to possess maximum hardness, and
where machinability is of first importance. Typical applications are castings
for hydraulic brake and similar systems and electric iron sole plates.
100
LM13 (EN 1706 AC-43100)

(Al-Si12CulMgl)
Colour Code - YELLOW/BLACK
the precipitation treated (TE) condition, solution treated, artificially aged
and stabilized (TF7) condition and the fully heat treated (TF) condition.
EN 1706 AC-43100
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.7-1.5 0.8-1.5
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.8-1.5
0.8-1.5(0.9-1.5)
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10.0-13.0 10.5-13.5
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.0 max 0.7 (0.6)
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max.

0.35
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.5 max.

-
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max.

-
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max.

0.7-1.3
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max

0.35
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max

0.25 (0.20)
Aluminium- - - - - - - - - - - Remainder -
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05 max.

0.5
Others: total- - - - - - - - - - 0.15 max

0.15
Figures in brackets are ingot composilions wnere they clutter trom the casting, single
figures are maxima.
LM13-TF
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 160-190 270-300
Impact Resistance Izod (Nm) - 1.4
Shear Strength (N/mm2) - 190
101
LM13-TF7
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 130 190
Elongation (%) 1 1
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles; N/mm2) 70-110 70-110
LM13-TE
Chill Cast
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) -
Elongation (%) 1

Strength and hardness, at temperatures met in internal combustion engine
pistons, are high enough to allow the alloy to be used satisfactorily for such
applications, but strength is halved at 250°C.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
3
MACHINABILITY
In machining this alloy, there is less tendency to drag than with high Silicon
alloys containing no other alloying elements, for example LM6. Ordinary
steel tools tend to wear rather quickly and should not be used. Carbide-
tipped tools with large rake angles and relatively low cutting speeds give
good results. A cutting lubricant and coolant should be employed. Diamond
tools are commonly used for finish machining.
102
This alloy shows high resistance to corrosion under atmospheric condi
tions.
ANODIZING
LMI3 may be anodized satisfactorily by the sulphuric acid process. The
anodic coating is dark grey. Anodizing, which produces an oil absorbing
surface, is sometimes used to give improved bearing qualities to pistons
made of LM13.
FLUIDITY Good, this alloy can be cast into thin sections.
-
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Fair, suitable for leak tight castings.

-
HOT-TEARING Excellent, resistance to hot tearing is high.

-
The actual temperatures may range between 670-780°C and will

depend on the mould configuration. This alloy may form internal
shrinkage pipes in heavy sections.
PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE 1.3% or 1/75.-
HEAT TREATMENT
LM13-TF (fully heat treated)- heat for 8 hours at 515-525°C, quench in hot
water, and heat for 4-16 hours at 160-180°C.
For large castings it may be necessary to increase the solution heat
treatment time.
A stabilizing treatment is commonly employed for pistons.
LM13-TF7 (solution heat treat, quench and stabilize)- Solution heat treat
and quench as described for LM13-TF then heat for 4-16 hours at 200
-
250°C or for such time as will give the desired hardness.

LM13-TE (precipitation hardened)- heat for4-16 hours at 160-180°C, or for
such duration as is required to reach the specified Brinell hardness.
APPLICATIONS
LM13 alloy is used for pulleys (sheaves), for pistons for all types of diesel
and petrol engines, and for other engine parts operating at elevated
temperatures. It has the advantage of good resistance to wear, good
bearing properties and a low coefficient of thermal expansion.
103
LM16 (EN 1706 AC-45300)

(Al -Si5CulMg0.5)
Colour Code RED/BLACK

the solution treated and naturally aged (TB) condition and in the fully heat
treated (TF) condition.
EN 1706 AC-45300
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.0-1.5 1.0-1.5
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.4-0.6 0.35-0.65(0.40-0.65)
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4.5-5.5 4.5-5.5
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.6 max 0.65 (0.55)
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max 0.55
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.25 max 0.25
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max 0.15
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max 0.15
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max 0.05
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max 0.05-0.25(0.05-0.20)
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05 max 0.05
Others: total- - - - - - - - - - 0.15 max 0.15
*If Titanium alone is used as a grain refiner, the amount present shall not be
less than 0.05%
Figures in brackets are ingot compositions where they differ from the
casting, single figures are maxima.
LM13TB
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 120-140 140-150
Elongation (%) 2 3
104
LM16-TF
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 220-280 250-300
Tensile Stress (N/mm2) 230- 290 280-310
Elongation (%) 0-1 0–2

LM16 retains its strength well, up to 200°C.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (per°C at 20 -100°C) 0.000023
2
3
MACHINABILITY
The heat-treated alloy has fairly good machining properties, but tools,
which should preferably be of high speed steel, must be kept sharp. A
moderately high rate of tool wear may be expected. Liberal cutting
lubricant should be employed.
The alloy has fairly good resistance to corrosion under atmospheric
conditions.
ANODIZING
A protective film, usually grayish in colour, may be obtained by either the
sulphuric or chromic acid process.
105
FLUIDITY Good, suitable for fairly thin castings. PRESSURE

-
TIGHTNESS Good, suitable for leak tight castings. HOT

-
TEARING Good, hot tears are seldom encountered with this

-
alloy.
The actual temperature may range between 675-790°C
dependent on the mould configuration. Care needs to be taken
to avoid oxide inclusions in the casting due to the presence of
0.5% Magnesium in this alloy.
-
HEAT TREATMENT
Full heat treatment gives high strength and hardness:
LM16-TB ( solution heat treated ) - 12 hours at 520-530°C and
quenched in hot water.
LM16-TF ( precipitation heat treated ) - 12 hours at 520-530°C and
quenched in hot water followed by 8-10 hours at 160-170°C.
APPLICATIONS
LM16 alloy is used for water-cooled cylinder heads, valve bodies, water
jackets, cylinder blocks, fire hose couplings, air compressor pistons, fuel
pump bodies, aircraft supercharger covers and similar applications
where leak-proof castings having the high strength produced by heat-
treatment are required. It is equally suitable for sand casting and for
permanent mould casting. LM16 has good weldability.
106
LM20 (EN 1706 AC-47000)

(Al-Si12)
Colour Code - YELLOW/GREEN

EN 1706 AC-47000
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.4 max. 1.0 (0.9)
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.35
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10.0 -13.0 10. 5-1 3. 5
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.0 max 0.8 (0.7)
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max. 0.05-0.55
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.30
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.55
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.20
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.10
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.20 (0.15)
Chromium 0.10
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. 0.05
Others: total- - - - - - - - - - 0.20 max. 0.25
figures are maxima
LM20-M
Chill Cast Sand Cast
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 70-80 120
Tensile Stress (N/mm2) 190 - 230 280
Elongation (%) 5 1-3
Brinell Hardness 55 - 65 65 – 75
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles; N/mm2) 80 - 100 80 – 100
The values shown are typical ranges for Chill and Die cast test bars produced to the
requirement of B.S. 1490. The die cast test bars were of 6mm diameter. Those in heavier
type are minimum specification values.
107
Tensile strength and hardness decrease fairly regularly with increasing

temperature and become relatively poor at temperatures of the order of
200°C, with a corresponding increase in elongation.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
3
MACHINABILITY
LM20 alloy is rather difficult to machine because of the rapid tool wear
caused by the high Silicon content and because of its tendency to
drag. The small amount of Copper present results in a slight superiority
in this latter respect over LM6. Carbide-tipped tools with large rake
angles and relatively low cutting speeds give comparatively good
results. A cutting lubricant and coolant should be employed.
LM20 exhibits high resistance to corrosion under both ordinary atmos
pheric and marine conditions, being only slightly inferior in this respect
to LM6. Resistance may be considerably increased by anodic
treatment.
ANODIZING
LM20 can be anodized by any of the common processes. The resulting
protective film ranges in colour from grey to dark brown. The surfaces
of die castings are not generally suitable for decorative anodizing.
108
FLUIDITY Excellent, this alloy can be cast into thin and intricate
castings.
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Excellent, especially suitable for leak
tight castings.
HOT-TEARING Excellent, castings are free from hot tearing.
TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE The practical pouring tem-
peratures are dependent on the die casting machine and the
casting dimensions.
The melt should not be allowed to stand at temperatures just
above the freezing range as the bottom of the melt will become
enriched in Iron and Manganese.
PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE 1.3% or 1/75-
The solidification shrinkage for this alloy is 3.7%.

HEAT TREATMENT
Castings in this alloy are not heat treated.
APPLICATIONS
LM20 is suitable for marine castings, water jackets, meter cases,
domestic and office equipment, street lighting and other castings
subjected to atmospheric exposure.
In general, LM20 alloy is preferred to the more common die casting
alloys LM2 and LM24 only when the castings are used in aggressive
media, requiring the rather higher corrosion resistance of LM20. Where
the very highest resistance to chemical attack is required, LM6 alloy
may be superior to LM20.
LM20 has slightly better castability than LM6.
109
LM21 (EN 1706 AC-45000)
(Al -Si6Cu4Mn0.4Mg0.2)
Colour Code RED/GREEN -

EN 1706 AC-45000
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.4 max.

3.0-5.0
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.55
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10.0 -13.0 5.0-7.0
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.0 max 1.0 (0.9)
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max. 0.20-0.65
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.45
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 2.0
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.30
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.15
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.25 (0.20)
Chromium 0.15
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05 max.

0.05
Others: total- - - - - - - - - - 0.20 max. 0.35
LM21-M
Chill Cast Sand Cast
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 80 - 140 80 - 140
Tensile Stress (N/mm2) 150 - 200 170 - 230
Elongation (%) 1–2 1–4
Brinell Hardness 70 - 100 70 - 100
110

Room temperature strength is largely retained up to 200°C and falls to
about half at 300°C. The creep resistance of the alloy at 200°C is not
significantly different from that of LM4.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
3
MACHINABILITY
LM21 has fairly good machining properties and is rather superior in this
respect to LM4-M. For the best results, tungsten carbide tools are
recommended. Liberal applications of cutting lubricant and coolant
should be used.
The alloy shows fairly good resistance to attack under normal
atmospheric conditions. Atmospheric exposure tests carried out by the
British NonFerrous Metals Research Association indicate that the
weathering behaviour of LM21 is similar to that of LM4 alloy.
ANODIZING
Treatment by either the sulphuric or chromic acid process will give a
resistant but slightly greyish coloured surface, the colour and quality of
the coating depending to some extent upon the condition of the
castings, i.e. whether sand or chill cast
FLUIDITY Good.
HOT-TEARING Good.

-
The practical pouring temperatures will depend on the mould
configuration and may range from 675-790°C.
PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE 1.3% or 1/75. -
111
HEAT TREATMENT
The mechanical strength of LM21 can be increased by heat treatment, but
the behaviour of castings that have been heat treated may vary considera
bly due to variations in composition within the specified range. For this
reason, where high mechanical strength and hardness are required, the
use of a recognised heat treatable alloy e.g., LM4-TF is recommended.
LM21 can be successfully stress relieved.
Age hardening which occurs spontaneously at room temperature is rather
greater than with LM4 castings. If bending or straightening of castings is
necessary, it should be done soon after casting, as at this stage the alloy
has the greatest ductility.
APPLICATIONS
LM21 is suitable for many of the applications for which LM4 may be used,
i.e., for general engineering purposes. It is mainly used where a high proof
stress and rigidity are required without the need for heat-treatment.
Its casting characteristics permit it to be used for the production of
moderately thin forms and also for castings required to be pressure tight
LM21 is equally suitable for sand and permanent mould castings. It is used
for crank cases for diesel engines, clutch cases, gear boxes, tool handles,
household fittings, electrical tools and office equipment.
112
LM22 (EN 1706 AC-45000)

(Al -Si5Cu3Mn0.4)
Colour Code RED/BROWN

the solution treated and naturally aged (TB) condition.
EN 1706 AC-45000
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - 2.8-3.8 2.6-3.6
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. 0.05
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4.0-6.0 4.5-6.0
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.6 max. 0.60 (0.50)
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.2-0.6 0.55
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.15 max. 0.10
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.15 max. 0.20
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max. 0.10
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. 0.05
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.25 (0.20)
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. 0.05
Others: total- - - - - - - - - 0.15 max. 0.15
Figures in brackets are ingot compositions where they differ tram the casting,
LM22- TB
Chill Cast
Elongation (%) 8
requirement of B.S. 1490. Those in heavier type are minimum specification
values.
113

Room temperature strength is largely retained up to 200°C.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
3
MACHINABILITY
Chill castings in LM22-TB alloy have good machining properties. Moder
ately high tool wear must, however, be expected as with other Silicon
containing alloys. Liberal cutting lubricant and coolant should be
employed.
Resistance to attack under commonly encountered atmospheric condi
tions is fairly good. Solution treatment makes this alloy slightly superior
to LM4 in its resistance to corrosion.
ANODIZING
Treatment by the chromic acid process produces a resistant but greyish
coloured surface. A lighter film suitable for dyeing is obtainable with the
sulphuric acid method.
FLUIDITY Good.
-

-
HOT-TEARING - Good.
In practice the optimum pouring temperature will depend on the

mould configuration.
HEAT TREATMENT
Castings are normally used in the solution heat treated condition.
LM22-TB (solution treated) heat for 6-9 hours at 515-530°C and quench
-
in hot water.
114
APPLICATIONS
The main characteristics of this alloy, in addition to ease of founding, are
excellent shock resistance and tensile strength. Limitation of Magnesium
to a very small content prevents serious age-hardening and so ensures
that a high order of resistance to impact loading is maintained.
Castings, normally produced in chill moulds and solution treated, are
mainly used for heavy duty service in road transport vehicles, e.g., as
cross bearers and other structural components.
115
LM24 (EN 1706 AC-46500)

(Al -Si8Cu3.5)
Colour Code - RED/BLUE
EN 1706 AC-46500
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - 3.0-4.0 2.0-4.0
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.30 max. 0.05-0.55 (0.15-0.55)
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7.5 – 9.5 8.0 -11.0
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.3 max. 1.3(0.6 -1.2)
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max 0.55
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max. 0.55
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3.0 max. 3.0
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.3 max. 0.35
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.25
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.25 (0.20)
Chromium- - - - - - - - - - - 0.15
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05
Others: total- - - - - - - - - 0.15 max. 0.25
Figures in brackets are ingot compositions where they differ from the
casting, single figures are maxima.
LM24- M
Chill Cast Die Cast
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 100-120 150
Elongation (%) 1.5 1–3
Impact Resistance Izod (Nm) - 3.4
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles; N/mm2) 70-100 138
Shear Strength (N/mm2) - 195
The values shown are typical ranges for Chill and Die cast test bars produced to the
requirement of B.S. 1490. Die cast test bars were 6mm diameter. Those in heavier type
are minimum specification values.
116

Room temperature tensile strength is largely retained up to temperatures in
the order of 150°C, and approximately halved at 250°C.
It should be noted that other factors may restrict the use of die castings at
elevated temperatures.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
3
MACHINABILITY
Machining practice is similar to that for other Aluminium casting alloys
containing Silicon. Whilst there is not the tendency to drag associated with
high silicon alloys such as LM6, tool wear is more rapid than in the case of
alloys containing relatively small amounts of Silicon. The use of carbide-
tipped tools is recommended but a good finish can be obtained with high
speed steels. Lower alloy steel tools may be used, provided they are
frequently reground to maintain a sharp cutting edge. A cutting lubricant
and coolant should be employed.
Resistance to attack under normal atmospheric conditions is similar to that
of alloy LM4, i.e. fairly good. In marine atmospheres, or under other severe
conditions, castings of this alloy should be protected by painting.
ANODIZING
Anodizing treatment by either the chromic or sulphuric acid process
produces an anodic film of a grey colour. The surfaces of die castings are
not generally suitable for decorative anodizing. Anodizing would be neces
sary if this alloy is for use in a corrosive environment.
117
FLUIDITY Good, this alloy is used successfully for thin sections.
-
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Excellent, suitable for leak tight castings.

-
HOT-TEARING Excellent, castings can be produced without hot

-
tears.
Pouring temperatures for die castings depend on the machine and

casting dimensions; pouring temperatures may vary between 630
710°C. The melt should not be allowed to stand at temperatures just
above the freezing range as the bottom of the melt will become
enriched in Iron and Manganese.
PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE 1.3% or 1/75-
HEAT TREATMENT
Castings in this alloy are not heat treated.
APPLICATIONS
LM24 is essentially a pressure die casting alloy, for which it has excellent
casting characteristics and is generally a little simpler to die cast than the
higher Silicon containing alloys. Die castings in LM24 are suitable for
most engineering applications and have an advantage over an alloy such
as LM6 when maximum mechanical properties are required. In practice
LM6 is preferred to LM24 only for die castings in which a high resistance
to corrosion is the primary requirement. An alloy of composition similar to
LM24 is by far the most widely used die casting alloy in the United States
of America, and a similar alloy has recently been adopted by the
European Die Casting Committee.
It is used for vacuum cleaners, floor polishers, motor frames and
housings.
LM24 has poor weldability and brazeability. For the vast majority of die
castings, the alloys LM2 and LM24 are equally suitable.
118
LM25 (EN 1706 AC-42000)

(Al-Si7Mg0.5)
Colour Code YELLOW/BLUE

the as cast (M) condition, the precipitation treated (TE) condition, the
solution treated and stabilized (TB7) condition and the fully heat treated
(TF) condition.
EN 1706 AC-42000
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max 0.20 (0.15)
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.2-0.6 0.20-0.65(0.25-0.65)
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6.5-7.5 6.5-7.5
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max 0.55 (0.45)
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.3 max 0.35
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max 0.15
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max 0.15
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max 0.15
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max 0.05
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.05-0.25(0.05-0.20)
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05
Others: total- - - - - - - - - 0.15 max. 0.15
*If Titanium alone is used for grain refining, the amount present shall be not less than
0.05%.
figures are maxima.
LM25- M
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 80-100 80-100
Elongation (%) 2 3
119
LM25- TE
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 120-150 130-200
Elongation (%) 1 2
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles; N/mm2) 55 80-110
LM25- TB7
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 80-110 90-110
Endurance Limit (5x107 cycles; N/mm2) 70-100 75
LM25- TF
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 200-250 220-260
Elongation (%) - 2

The tensile properties of LM25 alloy at elevated temperatures are influ
enced by the condition (heat treatment) of the castings and the duration
at the elevated temperature. On short term testing e.g., 30 minutes at
temperature, the properties fall only slowly and uniformly up to about
200°C, at which temperature the strength of LM25-TF is reduced by
about 20%. Very prolonged heating e.g., 10,000 hours, results in a sharp
loss of strength at about 135°C. At 200°C the strength of LM25-TF is less
than half of that at room temperature. There is therefore no advantage to
be gained by heat treatment, if the component is to be used at
temperatures above about 130°C,for extended periods of time.
120
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
3
MACHINABILITY
The heat-treated alloy has fairly good machining properties, but tools
should preferably be of high speed steel and must be kept sharp. A
moderately high rate of tool wear may be expected. Liberal cutting
lubricant should be employed.
Resistance to corrosive attack by sea water and marine atmospheres is
high.
ANODIZING
A protective anodic film can be obtained by either the sulphuric or
chromic acid process, but the grey opaque character of coatings of
normal thickness precludes their colouring in light shades for decorative
purposes.
FLUIDITY Good, suitable for fairly thin castings. PRESSURE
-
TIGHTNESS Excellent, suitable for castings required to be

-
leak tight
HOT-TEARING - Excellent, problems due to hot tearing are
rarely seen.
Practical pouring temperatures will depend on the mould

configuration. Care must be taken not to overheat the melt or
Magnesium may be lost, resulting in poor properties. Care with
Chlorination must also be taken to avoid removing
Magnesium.
PATTERN MAKERS’ SHRINKAGE 1.3% or 1/75-
121
HEAT TREATMENT
There are three heat treated conditions commonly used for this alloy:
LM25-TE ( precipitation treated ) heat for 8-12 hours at 155-175°C and
-
air cool.
LM25-TB7 ( solution treated and stabilized ) heat for 4-12 hours at 525
-
545°C and quench in hot water, then stabilize at 250°C for 2-4 hours.
The time at temperature must be enough to ensure a reasonable stability
of the properties, prior to mechanical testing.
LM25-TF (fully heat treated ) heat for 4-12 hours at 525-545°C and
-
quench in hot water, then precipitation treat of 8-12 hours at 155-175°C.

APPLICATIONS
LM25 alloy is mainly used where good mechanical properties are
required in castings of a shape or dimensions requiring an alloy of
excellent castability in order to achieve the desired standard of
soundness. The alloy is also used where resistance to corrosion is an
important consideration, particularly where high strength is also required.
It has good weldability.
Consequently, LM25 finds application in the food, chemical, marine,
electrical and many other industries and, above all, in road transport
vehicles where it is used for wheels, cylinder blocks and heads, and
other engine and body castings. Its potential uses are increased by its
availability in four conditions of heat-treatment in both sand and chill
castings. It is, in practice, the general purpose high strength casting
alloy, whose range of uses is increased by its availability in the as-cast
and partially heat-treated condition as well.
It is used in nuclear energy installations and for aircraft pump parts.
LM25 may be superior for castings, particularly in chill moulds, which are
difficult to make to the required standard of soundness. It offers better
machinability and mechanical properties than LM6.
122
LM26
(A1-Si10Cu3Mgl)
Colour Code BROWN/BLUE

the precipitation treated and artificially aged (TE) condition.
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - 2.0-4.0
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.5-1.5
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8.5-10.5
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.2 max
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.5 max
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.0 max
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.0 max
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max.
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05 max
Others: total- - - - - - - - - 0.15 max.
LM26- TE
Chill Cast
Elongation (%) 1

The strength and hardness of LM26 at temperatures met in internal
combustion engines are high enough for use in such applications.
2
Tensile strength is halved at 270°C and is reduced to 55 N/mm at
370°C.
123
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
Thermal Conductivity (caI/cm /cm/°C at 25°C) 0.25
3
MACHINABILITY
In machining this alloy there is less tendency to drag than with high
Silicon alloys containing no other alloying elements, for example LM6.
The machinability of LM26 is slightly superior to that of LM13. Ordinary
steel tools tend to wear rather quickly and should not be used, but
carbide-tipped tools with large rake angles and relatively low cutting
speeds give good results. A cutting lubricant and coolant should be
employed. Diamond tools are commonly used for finish machining.
Resistance to atmospheric corrosion is fairly good but is of little practical
significance for an alloy which is used almost solely for pistons for
internal combustion engines.
ANODIZING
LM26 may be anodized satisfactorily by the sulphuric acid process. The
anodic coating is dark grey. Anodizing, which produces an oil absorbing
surface, is sometimes used to give improved bearing qualities to pistons.
FLUIDITY Good, can be cast into relatively thin sections.
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Fair, suitable for leak tight castings.
HOT-TEARING Excellent. Hot tearing is rarely encountered with
this alloy.
TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE- 700°C
In practice, the actual temperatures may range above or below this
value and will depend on the mould configuration.

-
124
HEAT TREATMENT
For cast pistons, the heat treatment usually consists of heating the
castings at 200-210°C for 7-9 hours and air cooling in still air.
APPLICATIONS
The particular characteristics which determine the applications of this
alloy are its low coefficient of thermal expansion, its retention of strength
and hardness at elevated temperatures and its high resistance to wear.
Its main use is in petrol and diesel engine pistons. The alloy is widely
employed for such purposes in the USA under the designation SAE 332.
It is an alternative to LM13.
125
LM27 (EN 1706 AC-42000)

(Al -Si7Cu2Mn0.5)
Colour Code GREEN/BLUE
-

EN 1706 AC-42000
%
Copper- - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.5-2.5 1.5-2.5
Magnesium- - - - - - - - - - 0.35 max 0.35
Silicon- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6.0-8.0 6.0-8.0
Iron- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.8 max 0.8 (0.7)
Manganese- - - - - - - - - - 0.2-0.6 0.15-0.65
Nickel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.3 max 0.35
Zinc- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.0 max 1.0
Lead- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max 0.25
Tin- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.1 max 0.15
Titanium- - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max. 0.25 (0.20)
Others: each- - - - - - - - - 0.05 max 0.05
Others: total- - - - - - - - - 0.15 max. 0.15
LM27- M
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 80-90 90-110
Elongation (%) 1 2
The values shown are typical ranges for sand and chill cast test bars
produced to the requirement of B.S. 1490. Those in heavier type are
minimum specification values.
126

LM27 alloy retains a high proportion of its original room temperature
strength at moderately elevated temperatures. For short period
exposure, the tensile strength of chill castings is reduced by only 20% at
200°C and by 40% at 250° C. The reduction in proof stress is
considerably less.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
2
3
MACHINABILITY
LM27 has fairly good machining characteristics and is similar in this
respect to LM4-M. For the best results, tungsten carbide tools are
recommended. Liberal use of cutting lubricant and coolant is advised.
Resistance to attack under normal atmospheric conditions is fairly good.
ANODIZING
Treatment by the more common processes produces a protective
surface with a greyish opaque film. Anodizing for decorative purposes is
generally impracticable for the depth of anodic coating required to ensure
adequate durability.
FLUIDITY Good, suitable for thin castings.
PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Excellent, particularly suitable for cast-
ings required to be leak tight.
HOT-TEARING Excellent, hot tearing problems are seldom
encountered with this alloy.

-
Practical temperatures will vary above or below this value
dependent on the mould configuration.
127
HEAT TREATMENT
This alloy is standardized in the as cast condition, but it has been shown
that the tensile properties may be substantially increased by an
appropriate heat treatment. The response to heat treatment is dependent
on the presence of Magnesium so it is important that castings for heat
treating should have a Magnesium content at the top of the range,
(0.35% max).
LM27 -TB7 ( Solution heat treated and stabilized ) heat for 6-16 hours at
505-525°C then quench in hot water, and heat for 6-16 hours at 160
170°C.
The mechanical properties obtained from this treatment depend on the
Magnesium content, and are of the following order:
0.2% Proof Stress (N/mm2) 250-280 250-290
Elongation (%) 0.5-2 1-3
APPLICATIONS
LM27 is a very versatile alloy and, with its excellent castability, it is
suitable for most general purpose castings where moderate mechanical
properties are desirable, such as general engineering components,
domestic and office equipment, household fittings, electrical tools and
switch gear, automobile engine and transmission components.
It is equally suitable for sand and permanent mould castings of thick or
thin sections, and for castings required to be pressure tight. In short, it
can be used with the advantage of slightly superior castability for all the
kinds of applications for which LM4 is used.
128

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LM0

ALUMINIUM CASTING ALLOY

Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (per°C at 20-100°C) 0.000024

PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Fair, it may be difficult to produce leak tight

casting configuration, and feeding arrangements, LM0 has a very short

LM2 (EN 1706 AC-46100)

This alloy conforms to BS 1490:1988 LM2.

STRENGTH AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES

PRESSURE TIGHTNESS - Excellent for leak tight castings,

HOT-TEARING - Excellent, this alloy is virtually free from hot tearing.

TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE - 615-700°C

Temperatures for die castings are machine dependent,

Melts should not be allowed to stand at temperatures just above the

elements such as Iron and Manganese.

PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE - 1.3% or 1/75

Solidification shrinkage is approximately 3.7%.

annealed at temperatures between 260-370°C, held at temperature be-

tween 4-6 hours and furnace cooled.

LM4 (EN 1706 AC-45200)

Magnesium - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.20 max.

Nickel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.3 max.

Titanium - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.2 max.

Others: each - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.05 max. 0.05

Others: total - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0.15 max

STRENGTH AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES

nable Aluminium-Copper group. Liberal cutting lubricant and coolant

should be employed. Castings show improved machinability after heat-

Resistance to attack under normal atmospheric conditions is fairly good.

Considerable improvement in resistance to corrosion is effected by

LM5 (EN 1706 AC-51300)

This alloy conforms to BS 1490:1988 LM5.

figures are maxima.

STRENGTH AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES

PRESSURE TIGHTNESS Poor, it may be difficult to obtain pressure

tightness in castings other than those of a simple shape.

HOT-TEARING Fair, the alloy shows a pronounced tendency towards

hot-tearing and precautions should be taken to minimise constraint to

contraction in the mould.

TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE 700°C

This temperature should not be greatly exceeded.

PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE 1.3% or 1/75.

cast satisfactorily. Special care must be taken to avoid oxidation during

thoroughly de-gassed and, for sand castings of heavy section, the

incorporation of Boric acid as an inhibitor in the sand is advocated to

can lead to gas porosity and dross inclusions.

LM6 (EN 1706 AC-44100)

STRENGTH AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES

HOT-TEARING - Excellent, castings in sand or chill moulds are

completely free from hot tearing.

TYPICAL POURING TEMPERATURE 725°C

Sand and permanent mould pouring temperatures may be varied in

practice. Die casting pouring temperatures are machine dependent The

molten metal should not be allowed to stand at temperatures just above

the solidification temperature, as the base of the melt will become

enriched in alloying elements such as Iron and Manganese.

PATTERNMAKERS’ SHRINKAGE - 1.3% or 1/75.

Die casting shrinkage may be considerably less in some instances.

Solidification shrinkage is approximately 3.7%

castings that are to be welded.

The ductility of LM6 alloy enables castings to be rectified easily or even

bent to the required contour.

This alloy has excellent resistance to corrosion in marine environments,

possesses excellent ductility, but is of medium strength and is not heat

TIGHTNESS Good, suitable for leak tight castings. HOT