How much does aluminum die cast cost?

The cost of aluminum die casting can vary significantly based on several factors such as the complexity of the part, the size of the production run, the specific aluminum alloy used, tooling costs, and additional processing requirements. Here are some general cost components and ranges to consider:

1.Tooling Costs:

Initial Tooling (Die) Costs: These can range from $5,000 to $75,000 or more, depending on the complexity and size of the die. Multi-cavity dies or dies for complex parts will be more expensive.
Maintenance Costs: Regular maintenance of the dies is required and can add to the overall cost.

2.Material Costs:

The cost of aluminum alloys typically ranges from $1.50 to $3.00 per pound, but this can fluctuate based on market conditions.

3.Production Costs:

Per Part Costs: For high-volume production (thousands to millions of parts), the cost per part can be relatively low, ranging from a few cents to several dollars per part.
Low-Volume Production: For low-volume production (hundreds of parts), the cost per part is higher due to the amortization of tooling costs over fewer units.

4.Secondary Operations:

Additional machining, surface finishing, and assembly can add to the cost. These operations can range from $0.50 to $5.00 per part or more, depending on the requirements.

5.Labor and Overhead:

Labor costs can vary depending on the location of the production facility and the level of automation used.

In summary, the cost of aluminum die casting can range widely based on the specifics of the project. For precise costing, it is best to consult with a die casting manufacturer, providing details about the part geometry, volume, and any additional processing requirements.