The 16,000-ton integrated die-casting machine is undergoing trial production. [Photo/WeChat account: whkfq]
The Dongfeng Motor Integrated Die-Casting Factory in the Wuhan Economic & Technological Development Zone (WEDZ) is on the cusp of a groundbreaking launch.
At the heart of this facility is the world's largest integrated die-casting machine, boasting an impressive 16,000-ton capacity. Currently undergoing trial production and adjustments, this machine is set to revolutionize automotive manufacturing.
In just two minutes, a batch of molten aluminum is transformed into a fully formed new energy battery tray through a process of injection, clamping, pressurizing, and cooling.
Wu Xiaofei, general manager of Dongfeng Electronic Technology Co Wuhan Branch, highlighted the machine's capabilities: "This die-casting machine can consolidate chassis structural components into three large castings, reducing part numbers and weld points. This boosts production efficiency, enhances torsional rigidity by up to 20 percent, and reduces vehicle weight."
The production line is highly automated, achieving a production cycle of 135 seconds per unit and a product qualification rate of 95 percent. Wu noted, "Our material utilization rate is 96 percent, and all the materials are recyclable."
The first phase of the integrated die-casting project is expected to produce 200,000 lightweight automotive components annually. The second phase will add four more production lines, with an expected annual capacity of 600,000 units. These lines will focus on producing large-scale structural components such as new energy vehicle rear floor assemblies and battery housings.
