Luggage Hardware Zinc Die Casting: Process and Cost Guide
Overview of Zinc Die Casting
Zinc die casting is the dominant process for luggage hardware manufacturing, producing zipper sliders, locks and handles at high volume. ZAMAK alloys offer excellent fluidity and surface finish for decorative hardware.
| Alloy | Strength MPa | Elongation | Surface | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZAMAK 3 | 280 | 10% | Excellent | Zippers,buckles |
| ZAMAK 5 | 320 | 7% | Excellent | Locks,handles |
Mold Design Considerations
Mold design for luggage hardware manufacturing requires draft angles of 0.5-1° minimum and careful parting line placement. Zinc solidifies at 387°C, enabling faster cycles than aluminum die casting.
H13 tool steel with nitriding provides 500,000+ cavity life. Hot runner systems ensure consistent fill quality.
| Factor | Recommendation | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Draft Angle | 0.5-2.0° | Ejection quality |
| Parting Line | Non-cosmetic surfaces | Hides flash |
| Cooling | Conformal channels | 15-30s cycle |
Cost Summary
Surface finishing options: chrome plating, PVD coating or powder coating. At volumes above 100k units, per-part cost drops below $0.50 including material and finishing.
Zinc die casting remains the most cost-effective process for high-volume luggage hardware manufacturing.
