Zinc alloy 2 has the same composition as zamak 3 with the addition of 3% copper in order to increase strength by 20%, which also increases the price. ZL0430 has the greatest strength out of all the zamak alloys. Over time it retains its strength and hardness better than the other alloys; however, it becomes more brittle, shrinks, and less elastic.
ZL 2 is also known as Kirksite when gravity cast for use as a die. It was originally designed for low volume sheet metal dies. It later gained popularity for making short run injection molding dies. It is also less commonly used for non-sparking tools and mandrels for metal spinning.
ZL 2 is the highest strength and hardness of the Zamak family. This alloy has excellent casting characteristics including: •A higher creep performance than other Zamak alloys •Excellent damping capacity and vibration attenuation in comparison to aluminum die cast alloys •High strength and hardness levels after long-term aging