Technical guide · 2026-08-14

Wrought Zinc Alloys

Wrought zinc alloys are rolled, extruded or drawn systems selected for formability, sacrificial electrochemical behavior or specialized mechanical products, and must be ordered by product form rather than casting designation.

01

Definition and boundary

Covers mechanically worked zinc and galvanic-anode products where specified; excludes cast Zamak/ZA and coated steel substrate.

Reference information only: final acceptance is controlled by the ordered product specification, condition, dimensions and certified test results.

02

How the material system works

01

Rolling develops texture.

02

Copper/titanium adjust strength and creep.

03

Electrochemical potential controls sacrificial-anode function.

03

Representative grades and systems

Grade or systemSelection focusQualification
Zn-Cu-Ti wrought alloyRolled architectural/forming system.Confirm the governing product specification, delivery condition, section size and acceptance tests before treating designations as interchangeable.
ASTM B418 Type IHigh-purity galvanic anode composition.Confirm the governing product specification, delivery condition, section size and acceptance tests before treating designations as interchangeable.
ASTM B418 Type IIControlled-alloy anode composition.Confirm the governing product specification, delivery condition, section size and acceptance tests before treating designations as interchangeable.

04

Properties and trade-offs

01

Formability

02

Atmospheric patination

03

Anode current behavior

05

Product forms and supply conditions

Zinc alloy productMachined or formed componentFinished inspected assembly

06

Applications and selection

Applications and selection

  • Anodes
  • Special extrusions
  • Formed architectural details

Properties and trade-offs

  • Separate mechanical from anode duty.
  • Use exact electrochemical specification.
  • Review rolling direction for forming.

07

Fabrication, durability and inspection

01

Control bend radius.

02

Avoid galvanic contamination.

03

Use compatible joining details.

08

Procurement checklist

  • State wrought form or anode specification.
  • Define rolling direction, temper and dimensions.
  • For anodes specify composition, potential/current test and insert bond.
Discuss a material requirement

09

Standards, sources and review

Standards and designation context

  • Applicable ASTM zinc product specification
  • Buyer drawing and service requirements
  • Agreed inspection and certificate plan

Authoritative research sources