LM2 is an aluminium-silicon-copper alloy made for pressure die casting. Its high silicon gives excellent fluidity, so it fills thin walls and detailed dies, and its copper adds strength. It is widely used for die cast housings, covers, brackets, motor parts and appliance parts, but not where welding or strong corrosion resistance is needed.
Quick facts
- Type
- Aluminium-silicon-copper die casting alloy
- Silicon
- About 9–11.5%
- Copper
- About 0.7–2.5%
- Castability
- Excellent for pressure die casting
- Tensile strength
- About 150–200 MPa as cast
- Weldability
- Poor (die castings)
Equivalent grades
| Standard | Grade |
|---|---|
| BS 1490 | LM2 |
| JIS | ADC12 (close) |
| ASTM | A383 (close) |
| EN 1706 | AC-46100 (close) |
Equivalents are close, not identical. Name the grade and standard on the drawing.
LM2, LM6 or LM24?
| LM2 | LM6 | LM24 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Process | Pressure die casting | Sand and gravity, some die casting | Pressure die casting |
| Corrosion | Fair | Excellent | Fair |
| Use | General die castings | Marine, thin complex | Die castings needing more strength |
Typical uses
- Motor and gearbox covers
- Appliance and lighting housings
- Brackets and handles
- Automotive die castings
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Questions
- Is LM2 the same as ADC12?
- They are close and often used interchangeably, but the limits differ slightly. Name the exact grade on the drawing.
- Can LM2 die castings be welded?
- Generally no: trapped gas in pressure die castings causes porosity when melted.
- Can LM2 be anodised?
- Only with a dull, dark result because of its high silicon; powder coating or painting is usual.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 23 October 2026.