By Aiden ArmstrongThere are many different aluminum supplies that offer a product that is referred to as cast tool and jig plate, sometimes abbreviated to CT&J. This is the generic name for the product. It is available from different manufacturers with some differences in quality as well as slightly different specifications.
The different brands and types of cast aluminum tool jig plate can be used for a variety of different applications. This is a product that is designed for extremely flat surfaces with very limited deviation over the surface of the plate.
While it is called cast aluminum tool jig plate, you will also find it used for machine parts, in some types of heavy equipment and in the development of different types of molds in various industries. As the name implies, it is also used for producing jigs where the thickness and the flatness will be critical to producing the best quality and most effective jigs.
The Benefits
You will find that all types of cast aluminum tool jig plate are very versatile and can be used in any application where flatness and uniform thickness to very tight tolerances are a concern.
This is considered a good product to work with as it has very high ratings for weldability, corrosion resistance, machinability and polishing. In fact, it rates as between very good to excellent in each of those factors. The only area where the plate receives a good, at least when talking about ALCA5 CT&J plate is in the corrosion resistance in a marine atmosphere. For inland use, it rates as excellent.
Typically, this plate will come in a variety of thicknesses from a quarter of an inch to put to four inches. It also comes in various widths and lengths to accommodate all manufacturing and fabrication needs.
The ALCA5 CT&J plate offers an ultimate strength of 41,000 psi and a yield strength of 18,000 psi. It has an elongation of 16% and a Brinell hardness of 70HB.
Typically, this will be sold with a precision milled surface and with a precision sawed edge for a perfectly clean and precise cut. With the natural surface of the plate, it does not require additional finishing, making it a very good choice for a wide range of different uses.
It is important to know the working environment for any cast tool jig plate. Most are not a good option if the temperature in the environment will be sustained at 70°C or higher.
