Working with aluminum, particularly when precision is critical, means choosing the right supplier and the right type of product. For precision work where extremely straight surfaces and the need for minimal if any deformation of the material during machining is a must, quality aluminum cast tool and jig plate is the answer.
There are different manufacturers and distributors of aluminum cast tool and jig plate. Finding a product that is consistent in quality and that offers all of the features that are required doesn’t have to be a guessing game or a trial and error process.
To get the quality aluminum plate you need for jigs, machine parts, tool manufacturing or for molds and plates, consider the following factors when making a choice in both suppliers as well as the product.
Options in CT&J Plate
With many types of requirements and applications, it will be critical to have a specific plate measurement. This includes in all dimensions from plate thickness through to width and length. Some companies even provide the option to have extended lengths over the standards that may be an essential factor with jigs and reference plates as well as for specific types of machine and construction or equipment parts.
Be sure to carefully compare the company or manufacturer’s specs on the different properties of the aluminum cast tool and jig plate. For different applications, properties such as electrical and thermal conductivity or density may be the deciding factors between one type of plate or another.
Additional options to compare include the tensile strength, yield strength and the elongation. Depending on the specific demands based on the use and the use environment, these factors can be the difference between a good choice and an excellent plate for the job.
The Basics
Differences in the basic properties of the aluminum CT&J plate will also be important to at least review. Most of the available types are going to have very good to excellent weldability using resistance and MIG/WIG techniques. Likewise, most of the options will also have excellent to good hard anodizing processing characteristics, which means they can be further processed to have a desired surface for longer life for jigs, tools and parts.
While it will take time to do the comparisons, the benefits of finding the right CT&J plate do have real benefits to your application. It will ensure a higher quality end product while and a longer lasting final component.
