Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

Aluminum alloy for HDD frame

2004

Hello,

Does anyone know what kind of Aluminum die casting alloy is typically used in hard disk drive (HDD) frames? We would like to use the alloy because it doesn't seem to oxidize very easily, and appears to machine very easily without producing chips.

We had a chemical laboratory analyze an old HDD frame, and they concluded that it is A380. We have samples of other parts made from A380, though, and they oxidize very easily and have a darker color. The HDD frame doesn't appear to have any plating or coating of any kind.

Thanks,

Mark Kubovich
Electronics Mfg. - Des Moines, Iowa, USA

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: