Alca-5, ATP-5, and K100-S are variants of the 5083 (AlMg4.5Mn) alloy, specifically engineered as precision cast tool and jig plates. As 5000-series aluminum-magnesium alloys, they are non-heat-treatable. While their base chemical compositions are nearly identical, they differ primarily in terms of flatness specifications and surface characteristics.

Alca-5 (PCP), ATP-5 (Vista), and K100-S (Alpase) are leading low-stress cast aluminum plates used globally for tooling and inspection fixtures. Produced via specialized precision casting followed by precision milling on both sides, these plates feature exceptionally low internal stress, a uniform and dense metallurgical structure, and minimal porosity. They are supplied with controlled flatness and protective film on both sides. Designed specifically for precision CNC machining, they are distinct from standard rolled 5083 aluminum plates.

Alca-5: Produced by PCP Aluminium; notable for its availability in large widths, excellent consistency for anodizing, and optional high-precision flatness grades.

ATP-5: Produced by Vista Metals; the most widely circulated product globally, offering superior high-speed machining performance and stable vacuum-sealing properties—a preferred choice for precision inspection fixtures.

K100-S: Produced by Alpase; features a "Micro-Sheen" mirror-like surface finish (18–19 RMS) and consistent, stable performance across the entire plate. It is frequently used for vacuum-based composite molds and semiconductor equipment, with a slightly less stringent flatness standard.

Chemical composition (wt%, applicable to all three, including balanced excess Al)

Applications

1. Precision inspection gauges, jigs and fixtures, positioning reference plates, drill jigs, and fixture bases.

2. Vacuum chuck plates, vacuum composite molding tools, thermoforming molds, and heating/cooling plates for hot/cold runner systems.

3. Base plates for automation equipment, semiconductor inspection platforms, medical testing fixtures, and side/wall plates for packaging or printing machinery.

4. Parts suitable for anodizing or hard-anodizing, corrosion-resistant fixtures for marine environments, and weldable structural plates.

5. Automotive inspection gauges, aerospace auxiliary tooling, and master templates/jigs.

Material Advantages

1. Minimal deformation during machining and high dimensional stability: Produced via a low-internal-stress casting process, the material resists warping or spring-back after CNC roughing and finishing, reducing the need for rework and saving labor time.

2. Excellent weldability and corrosion resistance: Based on the 5083 alloy, it offers superior MIG/TIG welding performance with high strength retention post-welding. It provides excellent resistance to salt spray and humid environments—outperforming MIC-6 (a 7000-series cast plate).

3. Consistent anodizing performance: Suitable for both standard and hard anodizing, resulting in a uniform oxide layer without streaking or spotting.

4. Machining-friendly: Features a fine, uniform grain structure that ensures smooth chip evacuation during high-speed machining and delivers high-quality surface finishes.

5. Pre-milled at the factory and protected with PVC film on both sides: Ready for immediate use upon arrival, with protection against surface scratches.

Product-Specific Selling Points

ATP-5: Widely stocked with stable lead times; offers strict flatness tolerances—the top choice for precision inspection gauges and vacuum chucks, with high industry recognition.

Alca-5: Available in extra-wide formats, minimizing the need for joining/splicing; ideal for large-scale reference tooling.

K100-S: Features a "Micro-Sheen" ultra-fine surface finish, providing superior vacuum sealing; exhibits highly consistent mechanical properties throughout its entire thickness—ideal for composite molding tools and semiconductor fixtures. Offers excellent cost-performance value when extreme flatness tolerances are not required.

Product Selection Guide

For high-precision inspection gauges, vacuum chucks, and applications with strict tolerances → ATP-5 / Alca-5

For vacuum composite molds, semiconductor equipment, and applications requiring a pristine, fine-textured surface → K100-S

For projects with limited budgets and no strict requirements for precision flatness → Rolled 5083 H112 aluminum plate