Magnesium vs. Plastic

Upon superficial examination, plastic can appear quite appealing, primarily because of the reduction in weight and the initial cost comparison. Upon closer inspection, however, those advantages can quickly evaporate. Compared to die cast magnesium parts, plastic parts are often subject to dimensional stability issues, surface deterioration, fit issues due to temperature changes and a lack of rigidity. Die cast magnesium parts typically outperform plastics by delivering:

• Stronger and greater wear resistance than plastic.
• Superior stiffness as plastic often requires significant reinforcing.
• Greater impact resistance and energy absorbing capacity.
• Superior thin-walled near net shape casting of larger parts.
• Higher temperature applications.