Zamak 3 is the most used zinc die casting alloy, with about 4% aluminium. It fills fine detail and thin walls at low temperature in fast hot-chamber machines, gives a smooth surface ready for chrome or nickel plating, and keeps its size well. It is used for handles, locks, hardware, badges, toy and zip parts.
Quick facts
- Composition
- Zinc with about 3.7–4.3% aluminium
- Tensile strength
- About 280 MPa
- Density
- About 6.6 g/cm³
- Melting range
- About 381–387 °C
- Process
- Hot-chamber pressure die casting
- Finishes
- Chrome, nickel, powder coat, paint
Zamak 3, Zamak 5 or aluminium?
| Zamak 3 | Zamak 5 | Aluminium (LM2) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strength | Good | Higher | Similar |
| Weight | Heavy | Heavy | Light |
| Fine detail and plating | Excellent | Excellent | Fair |
| Die life | Long | Long | Shorter |
Values are typical. The exact limits depend on the standard and supplier; ask for the mill test certificate when it matters.
Typical uses
- Door and cabinet handles
- Lock bodies and hardware
- Badges and decorative parts
- Zip sliders and buckles
- Small gears and housings
Need parts made in Zamak 3 (zinc alloy)?
Post your requirement free. Workshops that take your kind of work see it and get in touch. You only talk to the ones that fit.
Get startedRelated
Related job work
Questions
- Is Zamak the same as zinc?
- Zamak is a family of zinc alloys with aluminium, magnesium and copper added for strength and castability.
- Can Zamak be chrome plated?
- Yes, it is one of the most common bases for decorative chrome, over copper and nickel layers.
- Is Zamak strong enough for structural parts?
- For small, lightly loaded parts yes; it creeps under long steady loads and loses strength above about 100 °C.
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.