Magnesium Alloy AZ31
AZ31 is a widely-used wrought magnesium alloy (approx. 3% aluminium, 1% zinc) valued in automotive engineering for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio.
Overview
AZ31 magnesium alloy offers roughly two-thirds the density of aluminium while maintaining good mechanical properties and damping capacity. It is commonly supplied as sheet, plate, extruded bar, and forged components. In automotive applications it supports lightweighting targets for gearbox housings, steering wheel cores, pedal brackets, and interior structural reinforcements. Its machinability is excellent, though corrosion protection and formability at room temperature require careful process control.
Automotive Applications
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Properties
Category
Type
Magnesium Alloy
Available Forms
Key Properties
- Low density (~1.77 g/cm³)
- Good damping capacity
- Excellent machinability
- Moderate strength
Technical Specifications
Density
1.77 g/cm³
Sustainability
Sustainability Rating
Magnesium is 100% recyclable; primary production is energy-intensive, so recycled content significantly lowers embodied carbon.