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About magnesium metal manufacturers

Types of magnesium metal manufacturers

The following are some of the important types of magnesium metal that buyers should consider at different magnesium metal manufacturers.

Milled magnesium metal

Milled magnesium metal consists of fine particles of magnesium metal aimed at increasing surface area. This type of metal is mainly used in the manufacture of pyrotechnics and aerospace industries, especially in advanced metal composite manufacturing because of its increased reactivity and combustion potential. It is also beneficial in chemical applications where high surface interactions are required. However, users should note that due to its fine texture, it must be handled with care to prevent unwanted ignition.

Pure magnesium metal

Pure magnesium metal consists of a high degree of purity, generally above 99.9% magnesium content. This type of metal is applied in industries that require strong lightweight but corrosion-resistant materials. Common industries that use pure magnesium metal include electronics, aerospace, and automotive. It is used to produce components to reduce weight without compromising on strength. Buyers should consider this in cases where they need a non-ferrous but lightweight metal with high resistance to corrosion.

Die-cast magnesium alloy

Die-cast magnesium metal alloys are liquid-cast into molds to form specific shapes. This method provides the alloys with good fluidity, making them appropriate for precise and complex components. Die-cast magnesium alloys find usages ranging from automotive parts to electronics housing in multiple applications. In those areas where lightweight structures are needed without compromising dimensional stability and strength under tension. Also, its manufacture into various forms makes it suitable for manufacturers with various applications.

Flaked magnesium metal

Flaked magnesium metal is provided to users in a highly reactive and increased surface area form. The flaked magnesium is mainly used in agricultural applications as a soil amendment to provide magnesium nutrients required for plant growth. It also finds application in the construction industry as a component in fireproofing materials. The producers provide this magnesium in a lightweight and easily transportable form. Hence, it is ideal for the users who require magnesium for environmental or construction-based uses.

Key industrial applications of magnesium metal

When considering different magnesium metal manufacturers, magnesium alloy buyers should also consider its various industrial applications to help them make informed decisions.

Aerospace

In this industry, magnesium alloys are used cautiously. This is because although magnesium is lighter than most materials, it is also highly flammable. Magnesium alloys are mainly used in structural components where strength and weight are critical. These include fuselages, wings, and engine components.

Automotive industry

The automotive industry is one of the largest users of magnesium metal.

  • Magnesium alloys have a lower density than most metals. Thus, they are usually used in components such as engine covers, wheels, and transmission housings. This helps reduce the overall vehicle weight.
  • This reduction in weight helps increase fuel efficiency. At the same time, it does not compromise the strength required for performance and safety.

Electronics

High strength, low weight, and good heat dissipation properties make magnesium alloys appropriate in the electronics industry.

  • Magnesium alloys also offer good thermal conductivity, making them suitable for dissipation in electronic devices like laptops and smartphones.
  • They also provide a strong protective case that is lightweight. This ensures device portability while maintaining durability.

Construction

Magnesium metal’s non-ferrous property allows it to be used in the construction industry without the risk of rusting. However, unlike many metals, magnesium is prone to corrosion when exposed to moisture. This corrosion can severely affect construction structures. Therefore, magnesium alloy corrosion must be prevented to avoid losses. Magnesium alloys are usually applied to structural components. These include frames, supports, and scaffolding. It combines lightweight and strength to increase efficiency in construction. Magnesium is also used in fireproof materials in the construction industry.

Medical devices

Magnesium alloys biocompatibility allows their use in medical implants that naturally dissolve in the body over time. This makes them appropriate for bone repair screws, plates, and other temporary implants that support the structure while allowing natural healing.

Product specifications and features of magnesium metal manufacturers

Technical specifications of magnesium metal

  • Grade/purity: Magnesium metal comes in various grades based on purity levels. This usually ranges from 98% to 99.99% for the electronic or aerospace industries.
  • Alloy composition: Often, magnesium metal is alloyed with small amounts of other metals like aluminum, zinc, and rare earth for enhanced strength, corrosion resistance, and workability.
  • Form: Magnesium metal is available in various forms. These include magnesium bolts, sheets, ingots, granules, and flake, depending on industrial use. Usually, flake magnesium is used in chemical processes, while ingots are used in alloying and manufacturing.
  • Bulk density: Magnesium metal usually has a bulk density of about 1.5 grams per cubic centimeter. This shows its lightweight structure despite being a solid.
  • Melting point: Magnesium metal has a melting point of approximately 650 degrees Celsius. This makes it appropriate for high-temperature applications.
  • Reactivity: Magnesium is a highly reactive metal. It easily reacts with oxygen and moisture, forming a protective oxide layer that prevents further corrosion.

How to use magnesium metal

  • Stirring and molten metal treatment: To use magnesium for treatment, users should first stir molten metal with magnesium granules to remove impurities or oxidants from the metal.
  • Creating magnesium alloys: Magnesium metal is to be added to molten aluminum when producing magnesium alloys for aerospace or automotive applications.
  • Ignition and pyrotechnics: Users needing magnesium for fireworks, flares, or other pyrotechnic devices should note that magnesium powder ignition is possible for high brightness flame and smoke.
  • Reducing agent in metallurgy: In bencher metallurgy, magnesium metal is used as a reducing agent to extract metals such as titanium or zirconium from their ores.
  • Biological applications: Magnesium is widely used in the medical field for implants that dissolve in the human body.

Maintenance & repair of magnesium metal

  • Oxide layer maintenance: Magnesium metal develops an oxide layer on its surface over time. This prevents further oxidation and generally maintains the metal beneath.
  • Corrosion prevention: Magnesium should be stored in a cool and dry area to minimize moisture exposure. Oxidation is likely to occur when magnesium metal is exposed to high humidity. This not only causes surface corrosion but also weakens the material.
  • Cleaning: Buyers should clean magnesium metal using a soft cloth to avoid scratching the surface. Harsh chemicals worsen oxidation.
  • Oil application: Applying mineral oil on magnesium metal will not only protect it from moisture but also reduce oxidation.
  • Storage conditions: Keep the metal in an airtight container to reduce contact with air and humidity. This extends magnesium's shelf life.

How to choose magnesium metal manufacturers

The following are some of the important factors business owners should consider when choosing magnesium metal manufacturers.

Quality of magnesium metals

Buyers should settle for manufacturers who provide magnesium sheets with high purity and quality. They can ask for reviews from other users and also check online reviews.

Rep of the manufacturer

Only settle for manufacturers with a positive reputation in the market. As mentioned earlier, they can talk to other people in the industry and check online reviews. magnesium alloy manufacturers with a positive reputation are likely to produce quality products since they want to maintain their good image in the market.

Industry experience

Business owners should look for manufacturers who have been in the business for a long time. This will guarantee them quality since established manufacturers have usually mastered the art of producing quality products. Also, business owners should look for manufacturers with specialized knowledge. Such manufacturers create products for specific industrial applications. This makes them possible to produce quality products to cater to the market’s needs.

Purity standards

To ensure efficiency, buyers should consider the purity standards of magnesium metal sets by the industry bodies. This will guarantee them quality products. Also, business owners should look for manufacturers offering federal safety and health administration standards.

Customer service

How the manufacturer treats their customer is also an important factor to consider. Business owners should only settle for those who respond to their inquiries promptly. Moreover, they should consider their return policies just in case the products they ordered do not meet their requirements.

Delivery and minimum order requirements

Business owners should also consider the manufacturers' delivery times. To avoid inconveniences, they should order from manufacturers who can deliver within a short time if they are running low on stock. Also, business owners should ensure the manufacturers have manageable minimum order quantities for their businesses.

Q&A

Q1. What is the main obstacle to using magnesium in construction?

Although magnesium has various benefits, its high cost is the main obstacle to using it in construction. It can also be used to produce fireproof materials. Magnesium is also highly reactive. When exposed to moisture, it can cause corrosion. This not only reduces its structural integrity but also represents a maintenance challenge. Additionally, the metals high thermal conductivity can negatively affect the energy efficiency of magnesium components in constructions.

Q2. What is the difference between magnesium metal and stainless steel?

Stainless steel is an alloy consisting of iron and chromium, among other metals, while magnesium is a pure element. Although both have high corrosion resistance, stainless steel is more resistant than magnesium. This is because magnesium is highly reactive and prone to oxidation when exposed to moisture. Although stainless steel is generally heavier, magnesium is lighter. This is because magnesium has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than steel.

Q3. Does magnesium metal have any side effects?

Magnesium metal is safe for human consumption. However, when in excess, it may cause muscle weakness, fatigue, nausea, and irregular heartbeat. Buyers should also consider that magnesium metal contains high reactivity. When not handled with care, it can react with moisture and air, resulting in fire and releasing hazardous gases. Moreover, magnesium metal exposure may lead to skin irritation or dermatitis.

Q4. Why is magnesium metal not commonly used?

Magnesium metal is highly reactive. When exposed to air, it can cause fires or explosions. Since it is a lightweight metal, magnesium metal tends to have a lower tensile strength than dense metals. This limits its use in heavy-duty applications. Moreover, it has a high thermal conductivity. This can lead to rapid heat dissipation from components, which is not ideal in some electrical or mechanical applications.