Magnesium alloy bar az31 az61 az91

Types

Magnesium alloy bars, including AZ31, AZ61, and AZ91, are classified according to their chemical composition and specifics intended for use. These bars are extensively used in various industries because they are lighter than steel and stronger than aluminum.

• AZ31 alloys

  It contains 3% aluminum, 1% zinc, and 0.2% manganese, with the rest being magnesium. This is one of the most commonly used magnesium alloy bars. Because of its medium strength, it is widely used in bodies, supporting structures, and components that do not need to be highly stressed. It has good workability and can be easily extruded into different shapes without cracking or breaking. It has moderate corrosion resistance but can be improved by coatings or anodizing.

• AZ61 alloys

  This contains 6% zinc and 1% aluminum, which gives it higher strength than AZ31 but lowers its ability to be worked. It is used an alloy added to moldings, castings, or machined parts for applications that will experience high temperatures, automotive parts, and aircraft components. It has also improved resistance to corrosion compared to AZ31 but needs coatings for harsh environments.

• AZ91 alloys

  This contains 9% zinc, which makes it even stronger, but it's more prone to cracking and less workable compared to lower-zinc alloys. Commonly used in die-casting molds, automotive parts, and electronic housings where strength and lightweight are needed. Because of the high zinc content, resistance to corrosion is fair, but it also needs protective coatings for better resistance.

Features

Magnesium offers users several outstanding features as a metal of choice for constructing various alloy bars.

• High strength-to-weight ratio: Compared to steel, magnesium alloy has about 33% lighter weight and about 75% lighter than some other metals used. This makes it very attractive in space-sensitive applications where it needs to be strong. Magnesium alloys provide strength and stability in providing this function, whether loading components in automobiles or supporting structures in aircraft.
• Corrosion resistance: Magnesium alloy is also resistant to corrosion, which is a necessary feature to increase the longevity of the product. Zinc and aluminum, which are typically found in magnesium alloys, offer sacrificial protection from corrosion, making the alloy ideal for use in marine and automotive applications.
• good machinability: Magnesium alloy bars are easily cut, milled, or shaped to required specifications. It's easier than titanium and many other metals, making it an attractive choice for manufacturers who require complex parts within a short period of production time. Its workability enables the production of detailed components for electronic devices, aerospace tools, and equipment in medical surgeries.
• Non-sparking: Magnesium alloys have a low chance of sparking in situations where flammable materials are present, like in mines or near fuel storage. This property makes magnesium alloys very useful in such risky environments.
• Thermal and electrical conductivity: Although not as good as copper and aluminum, magnesium alloys are quite conductive; hence, they are useful in electrical components. Also, due to its heat-dissipating ability, it is used in devices that generate a lot of heat and needs to be dissipated.

Specifications

The specifications of magnesium alloy bars are stipulated in terms of dimensions, mechanical properties, and chemical makeup. Understanding these help determine their suitability in different applications.

• Dimensions:You can get magnesium alloy bars in a variety of diameters and lengths. The diameter varies from 5mm to 50mm, while the length can be 1m to 3m but can be cut to size according to the required specification. Magnesium alloy bars can also be gotten in plates or sheets that can be used in different industrial applications.
• Mechanical properties: Typical mechanical properties include yield strength and ultimate tensile strength. Yield strength is typically 200 to 320 MPa, while ultimate tensile strength is 350 to 490 MPa. Elongation, or the ability to stretch before breaking, is around 5-12%. Biomechanical properties may change depending on the alloy type and heat treatment used. The AZ31 can achieve maximum strength at room temperature but might lose some of its strength at elevated temperatures. The AZ61 alloy can be heat-treated to form a stronger phase of the crystal structure, which increases its strength and hardiness. AZ91 alloys tend to be more brittle, especially at higher zinc contents, which can lead to crack formation during machining or heavy use.
• Chemical composition: Magnesium alloy bars generally conform to standards laid down by the ASTM and ISO. The AZ31 alloy consists of 3% aluminum, 1% zinc, and 0.2% manganese, balancing strength and workability. The AZ61 alloy contains 6% zinc and 1% aluminum for added strength. AZ91 consists of 9% zinc and higher aluminum levels for casting applications. These are also minimally added with manganese, silicon, and rare earth, which help inhibit corrosion and better the alloy’s robustness and ductility.

Scenarios

Because of their outstanding strength-to-weight ratio, AZ31, AZ61, and AZ91 magnesium alloy bars have several applications across several industries.

• Automotive industry

  Common applications of these alloys here are in the production of engine components, transmission cases, and structural parts. Their lower weight contributes to better fuel efficiency without sacrificing strength. Aircraft components use AZ31 and AZ61 alloys for their lightweight and heat resistance.

• Aerospace industry

  Coz of the reduced gravitational pull, each material must be strong enough to carry its loads while light. Magnesium alloy bars used in this industry achieve just that; therefore, they are useful in satellite frames and housing for the space equipment.

• Electronics

  Magnesium alloy bars form casings and supports for laptops, smartphones, and other electronic devices, providing protection without excessive bulk. The tools' non-sparking features also boost safety in environments with flammable substances. Medical equipment in surgeries, like portable carts or body imager frames, also uses magnesium alloy bars, which do not add to the weight.

• Military applications

  Magnesium alloy bars make portable equipment such as rugged cases, lightweight weapons systems, and vehicle components, making it easier for combat soldiers to carry such provisions without fatigue.

• Sporting goods

  Currently, magnesium alloys are being used to manufacture bicycle frames, wheelchairs for the disabled, and scaffolding for diving because they do not rust and are lightweight.

• Marine industry

  AZ91 is commonly used in this industry because hydro resistance is needed. It is used in boat components, propellers, and supports.

How to Choose

Taking these specified factors into account when purchasing magnesium alloy bars can help buyers make informed decisions ensuring the materials are suitable for their applications.

• Alloy composition

  Choose an alloy based on the strength and workability requirements of the project. The AZ31 alloy is better when higher machinability and forming are needed because of its fair strength. The AZ61 alloy applies when it's used in materials that require higher strength since it is also heat-resistant. The AZ91 alloy is more brittle, but still, it is used for die-casting and high-strength applications.

• Dimensions

  Magnesium alloy bars are available in different lengths and diameters. Evaluation of needs in this aspect means considering the space restrictions and how the bar will be put to use. You need a thinner bar and shorter stock if your project needs precision components. Larger diameter bars that are several meters long will be required for heavy-duty usage and structural support.

• Machining and finishing requirements

  While magnesium alloy bars are easy to machine, they also require special handling. Their tendency to catch fire if not properly handled is a major drawback. If buyers need machined components, they will require manufacturers who have worked with these metals. Also, mind the surface treatments necessary to avoid corrosion.

• Load and stress conditions

  Assessment of the loads and stress the magnesium bar will support is very critical. Use lower-zinc alloy for high-stress applications to avoid brittleness. For work with dynamic loads and fatigue praying materials, consider corrosion beyond strength as a major factor.

• Thermal conditions

  Although magnesium alloy bars can work at higher temperatures, such work could weaken the alloy. AZ61 and AZ91 are applicable in terms of higher temperatures since they are heat-resistant. The environment will not compromise the integrity of the material if it is in a thermally hostile environment.

• Corrosion conditions

  Magnesium alloy bars are prone to corrosion. They can be made corrosion-resistant with coatings, anodization, or regularly applying anti-corrosive substances. How extreme the working environment is will determine what degree of protection the alloy will require.

Q&A

Q1: What are the benefits of magnesium alloy bars?

A1: Magnesium alloy bars are lighter than steel, stronger than aluminum, machinable, and non-sparking, making them ideal for automotive, aerospace, electronics, and military applications.

Q2: What is AZ31 magnesium alloy used for?

A2: AZ31 magnesium alloy is commonly used in automotive, aerospace, and electronic components due to its excellent workability, moderate strength, and anti-corrosion properties.

Q3: How do I protect magnesium from corrosion?

A3: Apply coatings like paint, anodizing, or anti-corrosion greases to protect magnesium from corrosion, especially in harsh environments.

Q4: What is the strongest magnesium alloy?

A4: The AZ91 magnesium alloy, with higher zinc content, is one of the strongest but also prone to brittleness, making it suitable for die-casting and high-strength applications.

Q5: Can magnesium alloys be recycled?

A5: Yes, magnesium alloys are recyclable, making them an environmentally friendly choice for various industrial applications.