Magnesium AZ91B-F (UNS M11912)

Image of Magnesium AZ91B-F bars
Credit: CSIRO, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

AZ91B-F is a magnesium alloy that is commonly used in die casting applications. It is a high-strength, lightweight alloy that has good ductility and toughness.

Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
MagnesiumRemainder
Aluminum8.3%9.7%
Copper0.35%
Manganese0.13%
Nickel0.03%
Silicon0.50%
Zinc0.35%1.0%

The following table provides a list of magnesium AZ91B-F properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.

Table of Magnesium AZ91B-F Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Density1810 kg/m3
Mechanical PropertiesMetric
Tensile Strength (Ultimate)230 MPa
Tensile Strength (Yield)150 MPa
Compressive Strength (Yield)165 MPa
Fatigue Strength # of Cycles 1.0e+752 - 65 MPa
Shear Strength140 MPa
Young’s Modulus (E)44.8 GPa
Shear Modulus (G)17 GPa
Elongation at Break in 50 mm3%
Poisson’s Ratio (ν)0.35
Brinell Hardness 500 kg load, 10 mm ball63
Knoop Hardness Converted from Brinell84
Rockwell Hardness75
Vickers Hardness Converted from Brinell71
Machinability100%
Charpy Impact V-notch2.70 J
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point Incipient Melting≥ 421 °C
Solidus470 °C
Liquidus595 °C
Thermal Conductivity72.7 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp)1047 J/kg·K
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL)26.0 1/°C
Heat of Fusion373 J/g

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 AZ91B-F

AdvantagesDisadvantages
LightweightFlammability
High Strength-to-Weight RatioCorrosion Susceptibility
Good CastabilityLimited Temperature Range
Enhanced Mechanical PropertiesHigher Cost
Good Electrical and Thermal ConductivityLimited Weldability
Excellent Damping CapacityPotential for Galvanic Corrosion

Applications of Magnesium AZ91B-F

Magnesium AZ91B-F alloy finds applications in various industries due to its desirable properties. Here are some common applications:

  • Automotive Industry: AZ91B-F is used in the automotive sector for components that require lightweight construction, such as engine blocks, transmission cases, intake manifolds, steering columns, and instrument panels.
  • Aerospace Industry: The lightweight nature of AZ91B-F makes it suitable for aerospace applications. It can be used in aircraft components like seat frames, brackets, and structural parts, contributing to weight savings and improved performance.
  • Electronics and Communication: Magnesium AZ91B-F is utilized in electronic devices where weight reduction and electromagnetic shielding are important. It can be found in laptops, tablets, smartphones, and other portable electronic devices.
  • Sports and Recreation: The lightweight and high-strength properties of AZ91B-F make it suitable for sporting goods such as bicycle frames, golf club heads, tennis rackets, and camping equipment. The alloy's damping capacity also helps in reducing vibrations and enhancing performance.
  • Industrial Machinery: AZ91B-F is used in various industrial machinery applications, including housings for power tools, machinery components, and die-cast parts that require a balance of strength and weight.
  • Medical Equipment: Magnesium alloys, including AZ91B-F, have been explored for medical applications due to their biocompatibility and lightweight properties. Potential uses include orthopedic implants, surgical instruments, and medical device casings.
  • Consumer Goods: AZ91B-F can be utilized in consumer goods such as camera bodies, portable audio equipment, and other lightweight products where weight reduction and strength are desired.
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