Introduction
Rare earths are elements with atomic numbers of 57 through 71. Also known as lanthanides, these elements range from lanthanum to lutetium and include scandium and yttrium. The associated elements are found in some high-purity industrial and consumer products. Zinc, magnesium, silicon and iron are some elements often combined with rare earths. Each element added to a product can affect cost, performance and provide additional insight for product design and manufacturing.
Zinc
Zinc is a ductile metal that is highly corrosion resistant. It can be used as a coating for iron and steel to protect the underlying metal from corrosion, making it durable and freeing the consumer from maintenance. It is also used to make welding easier, forming ceramic-like glazes, and when alloyed with other metals its properties can be altered. Zinc is often added to rare earth alloys such as those in electric guitar strings, drum shells, and instrument strings.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a lightweight metal that is naturally strong and resistant to vibration. It is often alloyed with rare earths for items like electric guitars and drums, where it provides a better sound and more resonance. In addition, magnesium can be used to create alloys that are just as strong as steel, yet lighter weight and more corrosion resistant. Magnesium alloys are also becoming increasingly popular in the aerospace industry, due to their low weight and high strength.
Silicon
Silicon is a non-metal and the most abundant element in the Earth’s crust. It has extremely high thermal conductivity and is electrically conductive. Silicon is used in combination with rare earths in the production of computer chips, solar panels and other electronics. It is also used in making alloys with low thermal expansion coefficients, meaning the alloy does not expand or contract as much as other metals when subjected to high temperatures.
Iron
Iron is a versatile metal that is abundant in the Earth’s crust. It is often alloyed with rare earths to give a product improved strength and better wear resistance. Iron alloys are used in a variety of industries for items such as engine components, shafts, valves, gears and more. Iron is ferromagnetic, meaning it can be magnetised to hold a magnet in place and allow it to move freely like a bearing, which is why it’s often used in electric motors.
Rare Earth Alloys
When combined with other metals and elements, rare earths can create an alloy with unique properties that can be beneficial for many products and industries. These alloys are used in extreme environments such as when deep sea diving, on the surface of the moon and in space. They are also used in areas where rigidness and strength are needed, such as in medical implants, aircraft parts and military grade equipment.
Conclusion
Rare earths are often combined with zinc, magnesium, silicon and iron to create alloys that have unique properties. Alloys of these elements can be forged, machined, and anodized or plated with a very thin layer of one of the four elements. Rare earth elements and their alloys are used in a variety of industries, from aerospace and medical to automotive and electronics. They are strong, durable and lightweight metals that allow for better performance and longer product life.
