Summary for mic6 vs k100 Discussion
Mic6 vs Alca Plus vs K100 is discussed as a comparison of cast aluminum alloy tooling plates, with the original question asking whether there is any real difference and why clear anodize color and apparent strength vary. Ken Vlach explains that these are all tooling plates and notes supplier information: Mic-6 was by Alcoa (previously Alumax), K100 by Alpase, and Alca Plus is no longer available. He points readers to separate anodizing information for the color issue. Later, Matthew Kaye adds a more specific materials distinction: Mic6 is a 7000-series base alloy, while Alpase’s K100S and Vista’s ATP-5 are modified 5083 alloys. He says the 5000-series products should anodize better than Mic6, while strength should be comparable. The thread therefore suggests the anodize color difference is tied to alloy composition, not just brand name.
Q. Is there any difference between mic6, alca plus and k100? y is it that for clear anodise, the colour is difference between mic 6 and alca plus. plus I find that the strength is also slightly difference..pls help
Mike Cheng
– Singapore
2003
A. These are all cast aluminum alloy tooling plate. One supplier gives the following info: “Mic-6 by Alcoa (previously by Alumax), K100 by Alpase, Alca Plus is no longer available (previously by Alcoa before they bought the Mic-6 line from Alumax).” See letter #1419 for information on anodizing.
Ken Vlach [deceased]
– Goleta, California
Finishing.com honored Ken for his countless carefully researched responses. He passed away May 14, 2015.
Rest in peace, Ken. Thank you for your hard work which the finishing world, and we at finishing.com, continue to benefit from.
2003
A. Mic6 is a 7000 series base alloy. Alpase’s K100S and Vista’s ATP-5 products are a modified 5083 alloy. The 5000 series products should anodize better than the Mic6. Strength should be comparable.
Matthew Kaye
– Clinton, Ohio, USA
September 14, 2014