319 (AlSi6Cu3)
The most produced alloy in North America for automotive engine blocks and cylinder heads. Excellent machinability and elevated-temperature strength.
The 319 family (AlSi6Cu3) is the most widely used alloy in North America for engine blocks and cylinder heads. The combination of silicon (~6%) and copper (~3.5%) provides excellent fluidity, good elevated-temperature strength, and outstanding machinability. The B319 variant includes magnesium (0.10–0.50%) for improved T6 heat treatment response. Can be produced from recycled wheel aluminum by adjusting copper content.
International Nomenclature
| Standard | Designation |
|---|---|
| AA (USA) | 319.0 / B319.0 |
| EN (Europa) | EN AC-46200 · AlSi5Cu3Mg |
| DIN (Alemania) | G-AlSi6Cu4 / 3.2151 |
| JIS (Japón) | AC2B |
Chemical Composition
| Element | Symbol | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | Al | Balance |
| Silicon | Si | 5.5–6.5% |
| Copper | Cu | 3.0–4.0% |
| Iron | Fe | ≤1.00% (319) · ≤0.60% (B319) |
| Magnesium | Mg | ≤0.10% (319) · 0.10–0.50% (B319) |
| Manganese | Mn | ≤0.50% |
| Zinc | Zn | ≤1.00% |
| Nickel | Ni | ≤0.35% |
| Titanium | Ti | ≤0.25% |
Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 2.79 g/cm³ |
| Melting Range | 520–600 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 109 W/m·K |
| Electrical Conductivity | ~27% IACS |
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (UTS) | 235–250 MPa (T6 (B319)) |
| Yield Strength | 165–200 MPa (T6) |
| Elongation | 1.5–3.0% |
| Hardness | ~85 HB |
| Elevated Temp. Strength | Retiene resistencia a 200°C+ |
Key Characteristics
- The most produced casting alloy in North America for engine blocks
- Copper provides excellent strength retention at elevated temperatures
- Outstanding machinability thanks to the Al₂Cu phase
- B319 with Mg (0.10–0.50%) for improved T6 properties
- Manufacturable from recycled aluminum wheel base by adjusting Cu content
- Excellent for permanent mold and sand casting with good pressure tightness
Industries & Applications
Automotive — Powertrain
Engine blocks, cylinder heads, intake manifolds, oil pans
Automotive — Transmission
Transmission housings, transfer cases, valve bodies
Industrial
Compressors, pumps, hydraulic manifolds, valve bodies
Special Notes
319/B319 is the standard GM and Ford alloy for engine blocks and cylinder heads. Its copper content gives it elevated-temperature strength retention (critical for engine components operating at 150–250°C). The B319 variant adds Mg to improve T6 heat treatment response. We can manufacture this alloy starting from recycled wheel aluminum (base ~AlSi7) by adjusting silicon composition and adding copper.
Need 319 (AlSi6Cu3)?
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