Lightweight Alloys

The vast majority of magnesium die cast automobile parts produced by Meridian Lightweight Technologies are made from three different magnesium alloys. Each is formulated to achieve a unique set of properties and performance characteristics best suited to specific applications. They are:

Materials Properties Chart

Mechanical PropertiesAZ91DAM50AAM60B
Ultimate Tensile Strength (Mpa)240210225
Yield Strength (Mpa)160125130
Elongation % ub 2 in (51mm)3108
Hardness (Brinell)706065
Elastic Modulus (Gpa)454545
Charpy Impact (unnotched) (J)61817
Physical PropertiesAZ91DAM50AAM60B
Density (g/cm3)1.811.771.80
Melting Range (°F)815-1108815-1138815-1139
Melting Range (°C)435-598415-620435-615
Specific Heat (kJ/kg k)1.021.021.02
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (um/m-k)26.026.026.0
Thermal Conductivity (W/m-k)516561
Electrical Conductivity (MS/m)6.609.10nm
Corrosion Rate (mg/cm2/day0.050.100.09

Sources: Hydro Magnesium September 2005, ASM Handbook; Magnesium & Magnesium Alloys, Dead Sea Magnesium, Noranda Magnesium Data | The mechanical properties of a die cast alloy depend strongly on the fabrication variables involved, as well as on the alloy composition. *Hydro Magnesium nm: not measured


Specialty alloys for specific applications

For applications such as power-train components where the operating temperature is above 120°C, such as automatic transmission housings, there are a number of magnesium alloys available. These alloys are designed to operate in the higher temperatures without "creep" so that bolt tension and sealing surface flatness is maintained. Meridian recommends discussing this with our engineering group to review the options available.

For complete details of the materials properties of Meridian die cast alloys, please click here.

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