Magnesium AZ91D Cast Alloy

Image of Magnesium AZ91D bars
Credit: CSIRO, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

AZ91D is a high-purity magnesium alloy that is commonly used in die casting applications. It is known for its excellent combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and castability.

Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
MagnesiumRemainder
Aluminum8.3%9.7%
Copper0.03%
Iron0.005%
Manganese0.13%
Nickel0.002%
Silicon0.10%
Zinc0.35%1.0%

The following table provides a list of magnesium AZ91D properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

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

Table of Magnesium AZ91D Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Density1800 kg/m3
Mechanical PropertiesMetric
Tensile Strength (Ultimate)248 MPa
Tensile Strength (Yield)159 MPa
Young’s Modulus (E)44.8 GPa
Shear Modulus (G)17 GPa
Elongation at Break6%
Poisson’s Ratio (ν)0.35
Rockwell Hardness75
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point596.1 °C
Thermal Conductivity72 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp)1050 J/kg·K
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL)24.8 1/°C
Electrical PropertiesMetric
Electrical Resistivity1.40×10-5 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 AZ91D

AdvantagesDisadvantages
LightweightCorrosion susceptibility
High strength-to-weight ratioFlammability
Good castabilityHigher cost
Excellent electromagnetic shieldingLimited temperature range
Good thermal conductivityLimited availability
Dimensional stabilitySurface treatment requirements

Applications of Magnesium AZ91D

Magnesium AZ91D finds applications in various industries due to its favorable combination of properties. Here are some common applications of Magnesium AZ91D:

  • Automotive industry: Magnesium AZ91D is widely used in the automotive sector for lightweight components. It is employed in engine parts, transmission cases, steering wheels, brackets, and other structural components, helping to reduce the overall weight of vehicles and improve fuel efficiency.
  • Aerospace industry: Magnesium AZ91D is utilized in aerospace applications, including aircraft components and structures. Its lightweight nature makes it suitable for aircraft interior parts, seat frames, brackets, and engine components.
  • Electronic devices: The alloy's good thermal conductivity and electromagnetic shielding properties make it suitable for electronic devices. It is used in laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other portable electronic devices for heat dissipation and EMI shielding.
  • Consumer goods: Magnesium AZ91D is employed in various consumer goods due to its lightweight and durable nature. It can be found in camera bodies, power tools, sporting equipment (golf clubs, tennis rackets), and camping gear (tent poles, cooking utensils).
  • Industrial equipment: The alloy is utilized in industrial machinery and equipment. It is commonly used in housings, brackets, and frames due to its lightweight properties and good castability, making it easier to manufacture complex shapes.
  • Medical applications: Magnesium AZ91D has been explored for certain medical applications, such as implants and surgical tools. Its biocompatibility and low density make it an attractive option for lightweight and biodegradable medical devices.
  • Defense and military: The lightweight and high-strength properties of AZ91D make it suitable for defense applications. It can be used in military vehicles, protective gear, and weapon systems.
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