In production at multiple locations in the U.S., west coast customers now have a more localized source for K-Alloy and K-Alloy SP.

“This Delphi licensing agreement with Custom Alloy Light Metals will allow interested companies a simplified process to gain access to both K-Alloy and K-Alloy SP,” said Timothy Forbes, Delphi director of commercialization and licensing. “It will allow us to significantly increase adoption of the alloys by increasing the availability to aluminum die casters.”

Delphi’s K-Alloy is an innovative aluminum die casting alloy that resists corrosion. It can eliminate expensive processes such as anodizing, chromating, powder coating and painting that are designed to slow corrosion. In addition to cosmetic improvements, K-Alloy applications provide increased functional durability for aluminum cast components in harsh environments.  Delphi recently announced the addition of another new alloy to its portfolio, K-Alloy SP.  The new alloy can be used in sand casting and permanent mold applications while maintaining a high-corrosion resistance at a lower cost compared to other alloys.

Originally developed to withstand extreme salt corrosion and temperatures, vibration and shock experienced in vehicle engine electronics, K-Alloy aluminum is currently being used or being tested on products as diverse as fishing reels, outdoor lighting, furniture, water fountains, mail boxes, radios  and vehicle roof racks. K-Alloy has been tested to withstand 3,000 hours of salt spray testing with no metal loss or surface damage. Other aluminum alloys would require additional processes and/or coatings to withstand this harsh environment. 

“Custom Alloy Light Metals is ISO 9001:2008 certified and has support resources serving an extensive customer base,” said Ken Cox, president of Custom Alloy Light Metals. “K-Alloy’s unique qualities allow Custom Alloy Light Metals to offer customers a product that will provide them with rugged durability and more process flexibility.”