Hindustan Zinc introduces new die casting alloys at Bharat Mobility Expo

Hindustan Zinc Limited unveiled its new zinc die casting alloys HZDA 3 and HZDA 5, expanding its domestic automotive materials portfolio. The company also showcased EcoZen, its low-carbon zinc product that offers a 75% lower carbon footprint compared to conventional zinc.

The introduction of these die casting alloys aims to reduce India's dependence on imports for ZAMAK alloys, commonly used in automotive manufacturing. These alloys are designed for hot chamber die casting processes and provide dimensional stability and finishing properties for automotive components.

Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc Limited, emphasized the company's focus on meeting automotive industry requirements through domestic production. The company currently holds approximately 75% of India's primary zinc market share and exports to over 40 countries.

Recent market data indicates a shift in Indian consumer preferences toward vehicles with enhanced corrosion protection. While 70% of Indian-manufactured export vehicles use zinc-coated steel, only 25% of cars produced for domestic consumption incorporate this protection. Export models typically feature 70-80% zinc protection, while domestic models use between 3% and 50%.

Hindustan Zinc, the world's second-largest integrated zinc producer and third-largest silver producer, has maintained its position in the automotive sector by supplying metals for various applications including car bodies, batteries, and electronic components. The company's products have received Environmental Product Declaration verification and comply with ISO and Bureau of Indian Standards certifications.

The automotive sector's use of galvanized steel has gained importance as manufacturers face increasing demand for longer anti-perforation warranties. Industry experts note that zinc coating adds less than 0.1% to a vehicle's selling price while potentially reducing long-term maintenance costs and improving vehicle durability.

The company's expansion in automotive materials comes as India's automobile industry adapts to stricter emission regulations and increasing localization requirements. Hindustan Zinc was recently recognized in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024 as the most sustainable company in the metals and mining category for the second consecutive year.