**Mic 6 Aluminum Cast Tool & Jig Plate** Mic 6 Aluminum Cast Tool & Jig Plate, developed by Arconic (formerly Alcoa), is a pioneering product in the aluminum cast tool and jig plate market. Over 50 years ago, Arconic identified a need for aluminum plates with improved flatness, stability, surface condition, and thickness tolerances. Through extensive research and development, they introduced Mic 6, setting a new standard in the industry. **Manufacturing Process** Mic 6 is produced using a unique, state-of-the-art process. The plates are continuously cast to a near net thickness, ensuring optimal molten metal cleanliness through SNIF degassing and impurity removal technology. This process minimizes material stress and enhances stability. The plates undergo thermal treatment to eliminate any residual stresses, followed by surface grinding to achieve the final thickness. Each plate is coated with PVC to maintain its pristine condition during distribution. **Flatness and Tolerances** Mic 6 is renowned for its exceptional flatness, with thickness variations tightly controlled. Plates ranging from 0.25” to 0.625” have a maximum thickness variation of 0.015”, while thicker plates (0.75” and above) have variations no greater than 0.005”. These tolerances are verified using a laser system on a granite flatness table. The surface finish is meticulously machined to remove imperfections, ensuring thickness tolerances of ±0.005” across all sizes. **Applications and Advantages** Mic 6 is favored by machinists for its consistent performance and quality. It is a free-cutting alloy that produces uniform chips, allowing for precise machining with minimal distortion. Its applications span various industries, including automotive tooling, CNC routing tables, food processing, and semiconductor holding trays. The product's stability and flatness make it ideal for high-precision tasks. **Availability and Customization** Howard Precision Metals stocks Mic 6 in standard sizes, with widths up to 60.5 inches and lengths up to 144.5 inches. Custom sizes can be ordered with a minimum run of 2000 pounds and a lead time of 3-4 weeks. The plates are primarily made from recycled aerospace plate scrap, and nominal certifications are available. **Mechanical and Physical Properties** Mic 6 aluminum exhibits the following mechanical properties: a yield strength of 105 MPa, tensile strength of 165 MPa, and a modulus of elasticity of 71.0 GPa. Its physical properties include a thermal conductivity of 985 Btu-in/hr-ft²-°F and a volume resistivity of 0.00000479 Ω-cm. **Key Points or Highlights** - Mic 6 is a leading aluminum cast tool and jig plate known for its stability and flatness. - The manufacturing process includes continuous casting, thermal treatment, and surface grinding. - Flatness tolerances are exceptionally tight, verified using advanced laser systems. - Mic 6 is used in diverse applications, including automotive tooling and semiconductor trays. - Available in standard and custom sizes, with a focus on recycled materials. **Frequently Asked Questions** 1. **What industries commonly use Mic 6 aluminum?** Mic 6 is used in industries such as automotive tooling, food processing, and semiconductor manufacturing due to its stability and precision. 2. **What makes Mic 6 aluminum unique?** Its unique manufacturing process ensures exceptional flatness, stability, and surface finish, making it ideal for high-precision applications. 3. **How is the flatness of Mic 6 aluminum verified?** Flatness is verified using a laser system on a granite flatness table, ensuring tight tolerances are maintained. 4. **Can Mic 6 aluminum be customized?** Yes, custom sizes can be ordered with a minimum run of 2000 pounds and a lead time of 3-4 weeks. 5. **What are the mechanical properties of Mic 6 aluminum?** It has a yield strength of 105 MPa, tensile strength of 165 MPa, and a modulus of elasticity of 71.0 GPa. 6. **Is Mic 6 aluminum environmentally friendly?** Yes, it is primarily made from recycled aerospace plate scrap, promoting sustainability. 7. **What are the standard sizes available for Mic 6 aluminum?** Standard sizes include widths up to 60.5 inches and lengths up to 144.5 inches. 8. **What machining techniques are suitable for Mic 6 aluminum?** Techniques such as vertical and horizontal milling, shaping, planning, and circular sawing are suitable for machining Mic 6. 9. **What is the thermal conductivity of Mic 6 aluminum?** The thermal conductivity is 985 Btu-in/hr-ft²-°F, making it efficient for heat dissipation. 10. **Are there any certifications available for Mic 6 aluminum?** Nominal certifications are available, as the plates are made from recycled materials.