Mechanical properties, Casting techniques and Characterization of Microstructures of Mg Alloys
M agnesium alloys have been in use for a period of time comparable to that of aluminium alloys; magnesium was isolated prior to aluminium and magnesium alloys being used significantly during the Second World War. However, magnesium consumption is a small fraction of that of aluminium. There has been rapid growth in the application of magnesium alloys in recent years, with growth in pressure die cast applications exceeding 18 percent per year over the last decade. Magnesium is particularly appealing in applications where weight is critical, as it has the lowest density of any structural metal, 1.74g/cm3, compared to 2.70g/cm3 for aluminium and 7.87g/cm3 for iron (pure metals at 258C). In recent years, the automotive industry has provided a significant impetus for growth in magnesium consumption. Magnesium and other light weight materials can help to offset the tendency for vehicle weight increases caused by the addition of new features. Overall, reducing vehicle weight benefits both cos...