Magnesium Alloys: Their Composition and Plasticity for Various Uses
Magnesium alloys are among the lightest and strongest of all the metal alloys, making them ideal for use in fields where weight saving is essential and strength properties are desirable. Magnesium alloys are composed of various elements, including zinc, aluminum, and other trace elements, that influence the properties of the alloy. Understanding the composition of these alloys and the different ways they can be formed is important to selecting the right material for any given application.
The chemical composition of magnesium alloys can be broadly broken down into three categories: magnesium alloying elements, secondary elements, and trace elements. Magnesium alloying elements, such as zinc, aluminum, and manganese, are added in varying amounts to magnesium to obtain desired properties such as corrosion resistance, thermal and electrical conductivity, and ductility. Secondary elements, such as silica, magnesium oxide and iron oxide, are then added to help modify the properties of the alloy. Trace elements, such as copper and boron, are added in very small amounts and help to provide additional desirable characteristics.
Magnesium alloys are also characterized by their plasticity, or their ability to be formed into specific shapes without breaking. In general, magnesium alloys are more easily workable at high temperatures, due to the melting point of pure magnesium being quite low. This feature makes high-temperature casting of complicated shapes easier and faster, as well as reducing the risk of distortion due to cooling. The plasticity of magnesium alloys is also affected by their chemical composition, with certain elemental alloys being best suited for creating specific shapes. For example, pure magnesium alloys tend to be less ductile than alloys that contain aluminum, zinc, or manganese, making them better suited for applications where creating intricate shapes is not needed.
Magnesium alloys are used in a range of industries, from aerospace to automotive to medical devices. In the aerospace industry, magnesium alloys are often used to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency, as well as for firewalls, engine mountings, and landing gear. In the automotive industry, magnesium alloys are used to construct car and truck frames, on roofing and interior panels, and in the manufacture of subframes, seat frames, and crossbars. Magnesium alloys are also used to construct the external components of many medical devices, including catheters, X-Rays, and sterilizers.
In conclusion, magnesium alloys have a wide range of uses owing to their light weight, strength, and plasticity. The chemical composition of these alloys is of key importance, with each element contributing varying properties that must be taken into account when selecting such materials for any given application. The three main categories of magnesium alloying elements, secondary elements, and trace elements all play a role in determining the plasticity of the alloy and its suitability for various uses.
