Magnesium Aluminium Zinc Alloys (AZ Alloys)
AZ Series (e.g., AZ91, AZ31): The AZ series, especially AZ91, stands as one of the most popular magnesium alloys, renowned for its robust strength and excellent corrosion resistance. This series predominantly consists of aluminum (about 9%) and zinc (approximately 1%), which bolster its mechanical strength and corrosion resistance in demanding environments. The composition of these elements renders AZ91 particularly adept for die casting, enabling the creation of complex shapes with precise dimensions.
The AZ series is the most widely used family of magnesium alloys, primarily composed of magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), and zinc (Zn). The “A” stands for aluminum, and the “Z” for zinc, followed by numbers indicating their approximate percentages.
Key Alloys: AZ91 and AZ31
AZ91
- Composition: ~9% Al, ~1% Zn, balance Mg
- Properties:
- High strength-to-weight ratio (tensile strength: ~230 MPa, yield strength: ~150 MPa)
- Excellent castability (most common casting alloy)
- Good corrosion resistance (better than pure magnesium)
- Moderate ductility
- Applications:
- Automotive parts (transmission cases, brackets)
- Electronics (laptop casings, mobile phone frames)
- Aerospace components
AZ31
- Composition: ~3% Al, ~1% Zn, balance Mg
- Properties:
- Good formability (can be rolled, extruded, or forged)
- Moderate strength (tensile strength: ~260 MPa, yield strength: ~200 MPa)
- Lightweight (density ~1.78 g/cm³)
- Better ductility than AZ91
- Applications:
- Sheet metal for automotive body panels
- Structural components in aerospace
- Consumer electronics
Advantages of AZ Series Alloys
- Lightweight: ~35% lighter than aluminum, ~75% lighter than steel
- Recyclable: Easily recycled without significant loss of properties
- Dampening: Excellent vibration and noise dampening
Limitations
- Corrosion susceptibility: Requires surface treatments or coatings for harsh environments
- Flammability: Magnesium can ignite at high temperatures (though alloys are safer than pure Mg)
Comparison Table
| Property | AZ91 (Cast) | AZ31 (Wrought) |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ~230 MPa | ~260 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ~150 MPa | ~200 MPa |
| Elongation | ~3% | ~15% |
| Density | ~1.81 g/cm³ | ~1.78 g/cm³ |
| Main Use | Casting | Sheet/Extrusion |
Why Choose AZ Series?
- For casting: AZ91 is the go-to for complex shapes.
- For forming: AZ31 is ideal for sheets and extrusions.
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