LM2 Aluminium Casting Alloy
LM2 aluminium casting alloy is a legacy British aluminium-silicon-copper casting grade used for cast components. It is not a wrought sheet or plate grade. Quotations must identify the casting process, drawing, condition, dimensions, inspection and acceptance requirements.
Standard clarification: LM2 is associated with the BS 1490 casting-alloy system and is commonly cross-referenced with EN AC-46100 / AlSi10Cu2(Fe). Current European casting requirements should be specified under BS EN 1706. ASTM B209/B209M, EN 485 and EN 573 are wrought-product standards and must not be used to define an LM2 casting.
LM2 Casting Alloy Specification
| Legacy designation | LM2 |
|---|---|
| Material family | Aluminium-silicon-copper casting alloy |
| Common EN reference | EN AC-46100 / AlSi10Cu2(Fe); confirm chemistry against the ordered standard |
| Reference framework | BS 1490 legacy designation; BS EN 1706 for current casting requirements |
| Product form | Finished cast components or casting-alloy supply, subject to inquiry |
| Condition | Casting-process and project-specific; state any heat-treatment requirement |
Material Characteristics
| Characteristic | Procurement Relevance |
|---|---|
| Casting response | Suitable geometry and process window must be reviewed with the foundry; do not infer castability from wrought-sheet data. |
| Machining | High silicon content can increase tool wear. State machining allowance, datum and finished tolerances. |
| Corrosion and finish | Exposure and surface requirements must be stated. Die-cast surfaces may not be suitable for decorative anodising without qualification. |
| Mechanical properties | Values depend on casting process, section thickness, condition and test-piece method; use project acceptance values. |
Casting Process and Quality Requirements
| Casting process | State pressure die, gravity die, sand or another approved process. |
|---|---|
| Drawing control | Provide drawing revision, critical dimensions, machining allowance and datum scheme. |
| Integrity | Define porosity limits, pressure tightness, repair restrictions and surface acceptance. |
| Inspection | Specify chemistry, dimensional report, NDT, leak testing and certificate requirements. |
RFQ Checklist
- LM2 designation and required standard edition.
- Casting process, component drawing and revision.
- Condition, component weight, quantity and machining allowance.
- Dimensional, surface, porosity and repair acceptance criteria.
- Chemical analysis, mechanical testing, NDT and leak-test requirements.
- Marking, traceability, packaging and destination.
Equivalent-grade note: Do not approve substitution from a comparison table alone. Confirm the specified chemistry, casting route, condition and acceptance criteria.
