Transforming New Energy Vehicles: The Role of Metallic Silicon in Lightweight Die Casting Technology

The automotive industry is undergoing a major transformation, especially with the rise of new energy vehicles (NEVs). The key to this transformation is the integration of advanced materials and technologies that can improve vehicle performance while reducing vehicle weight. One of the breakthroughs is the use of industrial silicon (especially 553# and 441#) in die casting technology.

CITIC Dicastal's R&D team has made significant progress and successfully developed a heat-treatment-free aluminum alloy that fully utilizes the unique properties of high-fluidity 553# industrial silicon and high-ductility 441# industrial silicon. The aluminum content of 553# industrial silicon is kept to a minimum (≤0.5%), while the iron content of 441# industrial silicon is kept at 0.4-0.6%. This innovative combination significantly reduces the weight of chassis components by 30%, which is crucial to improving the energy efficiency and range of new energy vehicles. In addition, the collision safety of the new alloy is improved by 50%, solving a key issue of common concern to consumers and manufacturers.

This advanced material has been applied in the mass production of the rear chassis of NIO ET5 and has successfully passed Tesla's rigorous Giga Casting process verification. The synergistic effect of 553# and 441# can not only minimize the porosity of die-casting parts, but also effectively prevent cracking of large parts, making it the first choice for ultra-large die-casting projects over 8,000 tons. This is especially beneficial for companies such as Ideal Auto and Xiaopeng Motors because it can provide a reliable supply solution and meet the automotive-grade low aluminum and iron content control standards.

As requirements for automobile lightweighting and safety continue to increase, the role of metallic silicon in die-casting technology will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of new energy vehicles.