DIE CASTINGAluminum · Zinc · Dies · Machining · Finishing
Lightest structural metal
Magnesium die casting: when to consider it
Magnesium alloys are about two thirds the density of aluminum. AZ91D, the most common magnesium die casting alloy, fills thin walls well and machines easily. It is used for laptop and camera frames, power tool housings, steering wheel cores and automotive brackets.
Magnesium needs its own melting and handling: a protective cover gas over the melt, controlled collection of chips and dust because they burn, and a corrosion protection coating on most parts. If you are considering magnesium, send us the part. We will review whether magnesium or aluminum suits it better and confirm how it would be produced before we quote.
Magnesium compared with aluminum (typical)
- Density about 1.8 g/cm³ against about 2.7 g/cm³
- Thin walls fill well on small parts
- Very good machinability
- Needs corrosion protection, usually a conversion coating plus paint or powder coat
- Higher material and process cost per kilogram
Magnesium die casting FAQ
How much lighter is magnesium than aluminum?
Magnesium alloys have a density of about 1.8 g/cm³ against about 2.7 g/cm³ for aluminum, so a part of the same volume is roughly a third lighter.
Do magnesium castings need a coating?
Usually yes. Magnesium corrodes more easily than aluminum, especially in contact with steel fasteners, so most parts get a conversion coating plus paint or powder coat.
Do you produce magnesium die castings?
Magnesium needs dedicated melting, cover gas and fire-safety equipment. Send us the part and we will confirm whether and how it can be produced before we quote.