A356 has very good casting and machining characteristics. Corrosion resistance is excellent and it has very good weldability characteristics. Mechanical properties are rated excellent. Typically this alloy is used in castings for aircraft parts, pump housings, impellers, high velocity blowers and structural castings where high strength is required. The fact that A356 has good castability makes it a logical choice for intricate and complex castings where lightweight, pressure tightness and excellent mechanical properties are needed.