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Finishing and fabrication of zamak parts for washing machines

Finishing and fabrication of zamak parts for washing machines

The manufacturing process and finishing of the parts of a washing machine (and of household appliances in general) are fundamental aspects to guarantee the quality and durability of the final product. In this article, we will focus on the use of zamak as the main material in the manufacture of parts for washing machines and explore the reasons why high-pressure zinc die casting is such a wise choice.

What is Zamak?

Zamak is an alloy of zinc, aluminum, magnesium, and copper that has been widely used in various industries due to its unique characteristics. One of the main advantages and characteristics of zamak is its high fluidity and low melting point, which allows Jegan to manufacture parts with minimum tolerances and complex shapes. This is especially relevant in the manufacture of zamak parts for the washing machine industry, where the production of components with specific and tight geometries is required.

Zamak's ability to fill molds with precision makes it an ideal choice for manufacturing parts such as hinges, knobs, latches, and rings. These components often have complicated shapes and tight tolerances, and zamak allows for precise and consistent results in every production run.

Jegan offers other important advantages in the household appliances sector, in the context of washing machines, refrigerators, and small appliances such as coffee machines, and toasters... 

One of them is its high damping capacity and vibration attenuation. In the case of washing machines, they generate vibrations due to their operation, and it is essential to have components that can absorb and reduce these vibrations to avoid damage and improve the user experience. Thanks to its composition and structure, Zamak has excellent damping properties, making it an ideal choice for parts exposed to vibrations.

Die castings for the household appliance industry

In the manufacture of washing machine parts in Zamak, a variety of components can be obtained that play important roles in the functioning and operability of washing machines. Zamak is a versatile and highly suitable material. 

Zamak provides strength, durability and allows the production of closures with precise and tight geometries, ensuring a perfect fit and a hermetic seal.

In the following, we will expand on the specific parts that can be manufactured in Zamak, such as rings, knobs, latches, and hinges.

  1. Zamak rings: They are used to hold and seal the drum or inner tank. These parts must be durable, resistant, and able to withstand vibrations and movements during the washing cycle. Zamak provides optimum performance. In addition, the fluidity of zamak makes it possible to obtain rings with complex and adjusted shapes to perfectly adapt to the design of the washing machine.

  2. Controls knobs: The control knobs allow the user to select different programs and settings on the washing machine. These components must be ergonomic, durable, and easy to operate. Zamak offers the possibility of manufacturing knobs with customized shapes and designs, which allows for a wide variety of aesthetic options. In addition, zamak is resistant to wear and tear and continuous use, ensuring that the knobs retain their functionality and appearance for a long time.

  3. Washing machine latches: These are fastening mechanisms that hold the washer doors closed during the wash cycle. These parts must be strong, resistant, and able to withstand the forces exerted during the operation of the washing machine.

  4. Zamak hinges: Allow the opening and closing of the washing machine door. These parts must be robust, able to withstand heavy loads, and provide smooth and trouble-free operation. Zamak is a good choice because of its high strength and ability to withstand static and dynamic loads. In addition, the fluidity of zamak ensures the stability and functionality of washing machine doors.

Zamak manufacturers and their manufacturing process

Finishing and fabrication of zamak parts for washing machines

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Jegan's manufacturing process for Zamak washing machine parts consists of several stages. First, Jegan conducts an engineering process to design and plan the required parts. Then, a mold is created with the desired shape and dimensions for the part. Next, liquid zamak is injected into the mold, allowing the metal to take the shape of the mold and solidify.

Once the parts have been manufactured by the injection process, they undergo second operations to obtain the desired finishes. These operations can include shot blasting, grinding, vibratory grinding, and polishing, depending on the specific requirements of each part. These additional processes help to eliminate imperfections, improve appearance and ensure the final quality of the parts.

In addition to finishing operations, zamak parts for washing machines can undergo additional treatments to improve their durability and aesthetic appearance. Some of these common treatments include zinc plating, chrome plating, painting, and physical vapor deposition (PVD). These treatments provide corrosion protection, improve abrasion resistance and give the parts a visually appealing finish.

Throughout the process of manufacturing and finishing zamak parts, quality control plays a crucial role. Rigorous inspections are carried out to ensure that parts meet the required standards in terms of dimensions, surface finish, and strength. Quality control ensures that each manufactured part meets the performance and reliability requirements expected in each of the washers.

Zamak has become a reference material in the washing machine industry thanks to its excellent properties and consistent results.

If you would like to learn more about this topic or have any specific questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help you and provide you with the information you need.