Zamak Die Casting for Gas Valves and Plumbing Fittings

Die-cast components for gas valves, faucets, fittings and accessories compliant with EN 549 / EN 13611

Zamak die casting for gas valves and plumbing fittings

Since 1991 Micrometal has produced zamak (zinc alloy) die-cast components for leading Italian and European manufacturers of gas valves, plumbing fittings and accessories. Zinc alloy die casting per EN 12844 ZP3/ZP5 is the reference technology for valve bodies, manual levers, knobs, decorative rings, non-pressure fittings and accessories requiring dimensional stability, consistent finish and lot-to-lot repeatability.

Our 75,000 kg/month production capacity on 11 machines serves both medium OEMs (10,000–50,000 pcs/year per SKU) and global plumbing/gas industry groups (200,000+ pcs/year on top sellers). The 20–90 ton tonnage range covers components from 5 g to 700 g, with consistent quality and full lot-mold traceability via document management.

Zamak components for gas valves: our products

Our zamak production for the gas valve and plumbing sector covers components NOT in direct contact with pressurized gas flow:

• Manual levers and knobs for shut-off valves — ergonomic geometries, ZP3 alloy with chrome plating or powder coating
• Decorative rings and caps — aesthetic components for premium plumbing fittings, chrome/satin/PVD finish
• Auxiliary valve bodies for actuators, flow indicators, non-pressure accessories
• Handles for thermostats and gas regulators — ergonomics + aesthetics + competitive cost vs. aluminum or brass
• Decorative fittings and aesthetic flanges for visible gas/plumbing installations
• Components for gas meters and counters not in pressure (housings, levers, indicators)
• Accessories for safety valves and shut-off devices (parts not in fluid contact)

Technical note: zamak is NOT certified for parts in direct contact with pressurized gas flow (for those, brass CW617N or specific EN 549 alloys are used). Micrometal supplies exclusively accessory, ergonomic and aesthetic components.

Why zamak is chosen for gas valves and plumbing

The gas valve and plumbing sector requires components combining aesthetic quality, competitive cost and durability in domestic/industrial environment. Zamak meets these requirements thanks to:

• Surface finish Ra 0.8 µm direct from mold — optimal substrate for chrome plating, powder coating, PVD
• Dimensional stability 0.05 mm — precise mating with seals, threads, actuator shafts
• Lower total cost than CW617N brass for non-fluid components (–30/40% on average)
• Atmospheric corrosion resistance for exposed components in domestic environment (with proper finish)
• RoHS/REACH compliance — essential for European supply chain
• 100% recyclability — pre and post-use, aligned with EU circular economy directives
• Production capacity — 11 machines + 4 Frech DAW 80 robotic cells with Kawasaki/ABB for large batches at consistent quality

From design to delivery: Micrometal’s flow for gas valves

Gas/plumbing sector projects often start from an OEM technical drawing with stringent dimensional requirements. Our DFM team reviews the project, proposes modifications to optimize mold filling and tool life, and runs preliminary simulation. The flow includes EN 12844 ZP3/ZP5/ZP2 alloy selection, rapid tooling prototype, FAI validation with agreed dimensional plan, and series production with 100% quality control on critical dimensions and aesthetic surfaces. Plating finishes are coordinated via selected partners.