Magnesium AZ31B (UNS M11311)
AZ31B is a lightweight magnesium alloy that is commonly used in aerospace and automotive applications. It is known for its good strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and weldability.
| Chemical Composition | ||
|---|---|---|
| Element | Min | Max |
| Magnesium | Remainder | |
| Aluminum | 2.5% | 3.5% |
| Calcium | 0.04% | |
| Copper | 0.05% | |
| Iron | 0.005% | |
| Manganese | 0.20% | |
| Nickel | 0.005% | |
| Silicon | 0.10% | |
| Zinc | 0.6% | 1.4% |
The following table provides a list of magnesium AZ31B properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.
Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Density | 1770 kg/m3 |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | 260 MPa |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | 170 MPa |
| Shear Strength | 130 MPa |
| Young’s Modulus (E) | 45 GPa |
| Shear Modulus (G) | 17 GPa |
| Elongation at Break in 50 mm | 15% |
| Poisson’s Ratio (ν) | 0.35 |
| Brinell Hardness 500 kg load, 10 mm ball | 50 |
| Machinability | 100% |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Melting Point | 605 - 630 °C |
| Solidus | 605 °C |
| Liquidus | 630 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 96 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 1000 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 26.0 1/°C |
| Heat of Fusion | 340 J/g |
| Electrical Properties | Metric |
| Electrical Resistivity | 9.20×10-6 Ω·cm |
The values in this table are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as the specific manufacturing process and heat treatment applied to the alloy.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Magnesium AZ31B
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Corrosion susceptibility |
| High strength-to-weight ratio | Lower temperature capability |
| Good machinability | Limited formability |
| Excellent damping properties | Higher cost |
| Good thermal conductivity | Flammability |
| Recyclability | Limited availability |
Applications of Magnesium AZ31B
Magnesium AZ31B is a versatile alloy with various applications across different industries. Here are some common applications of Magnesium AZ31B:
- Automotive industry: Magnesium AZ31B is widely used in the automotive sector due to its lightweight properties and good strength-to-weight ratio. It is employed in components such as engine covers, transmission cases, intake manifolds, steering columns, and structural parts. The use of AZ31B helps reduce the weight of vehicles, improving fuel efficiency and overall performance.
- Aerospace and aviation: The aerospace industry benefits from the lightweight characteristics of Magnesium AZ31B. It is used in aircraft interior components, seat frames, brackets, helicopter rotor hubs, and other structural parts where weight reduction is crucial without compromising strength and safety.
- Electronics: AZ31B finds applications in consumer electronics, particularly in portable devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It can be used for casings, heat sinks, and other components that require lightweight materials with good thermal conductivity properties.
- Sports equipment: The lightweight and high strength-to-weight ratio of AZ31B make it suitable for sporting goods. It is used in the production of items like tennis racquets, baseball bats, golf club heads, and bicycle frames, where reduced weight can improve performance.
- Medical devices: Magnesium AZ31B is utilized in the medical field for manufacturing lightweight and biocompatible devices. It finds applications in orthopedic implants, surgical instruments, and medical equipment that require materials with excellent strength and low density.
- Industrial applications: AZ31B is also used in various industrial applications. It can be found in equipment and machinery parts, including housings, frames, brackets, and connectors. Its lightweight nature facilitates easier handling and transportation, and its machinability allows for efficient manufacturing processes.
- Renewable energy: Magnesium AZ31B has been explored for applications in renewable energy systems, particularly in lightweight structures for solar panels and wind turbines. Its low weight can facilitate installation and reduce the load on supporting structures.